WO2019138951A1 - Toy - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the present invention, in order to easily create and enjoy operation of a computer program or the like, a device acquires information included in each of multiple blocks in the order of connection thereof.

Description

toy

3 shows an example of a control block according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows a system with a control block. Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment with the blocks connected. Fig. 3 shows a process flow of the embodiment shown in Fig. 1-3. Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment with blocks connected. FIG. 6 shows a process flow of the embodiment shown in FIG. FIG. 6 shows a process flow according to a modification of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a block according to an embodiment of the present invention. Show a system with blocks. An outline of the inside of the start block is shown. A content table, an identifier correspondence information table, and a block connection information table are shown. An overview of the inside of the execution block is shown. The modification of a content identifier table is shown. The modification of an identifier corresponding | compatible information table is shown. (A): An overview of the inside of the start block is shown. (B): The second side of the start block is shown. (A): The execution block shows the first surface. (B): An overview of the inside of the execution block is shown. (C): Shows the second side of the execution block. (A): The first surface of the control block is shown. (B) shows an overview of the control block. (C): Shows the second side of the control block. The state which one start block and three execution blocks are connected is shown. A state where the fourth execution block is arranged shifted to the right with respect to the third execution block is shown. The example which used the control block by a function definition block and a function call (function call) block is shown. An example using a conditional branch (branch) block as a control block is shown. The example which used the repetition (loop) block as a control block is shown. An overview of the setting block is shown. The connection example of a start block and a function definition block is shown. The example which used a repetition (loop) block and a conditional branch (branch) block as a control block is shown. It is the figure which put in order and showed each component of the basic block of long side direction movement type. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a basic block in a state where the respective components shown in FIG. 3-1 are assembled. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which the left long side of another basic block of the same kind is arranged so as to align with the long side on the right side of the basic block shown in FIG. It is the figure which put in order and showed each part of the basic block of short side direction movement type. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a basic block in a state in which the respective components shown in FIG. 3-4 are assembled. FIG. 16 is a view showing a state in which the short side of another basic block of the same kind is arranged so as to be aligned with the short side on the right side of the basic block shown in FIG. It is the figure which put in order and showed each component of the push-down type basic block. It is a figure showing the basic block in the state where each part shown in Drawing 3-7 was assembled. It is a figure which shows the state which pressed down the center part of the flexible plate from the state shown to FIGS. 3-8. It is a figure showing each part which constitutes an execution block. It is the figure which showed the state which assembled the execution block from each component shown to FIGS. 3-10. It is a figure showing each part which constitutes a control block. It is the figure which showed the state which assembled the control block from each component shown to FIGS. 3-12. It is a figure showing each part which constitutes an argument block. It is the figure which showed the state which assembled the argument block from each component shown to FIGS. 3-14. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a positional relationship between a virtual practical block viewed from above and other blocks that may be arranged adjacent thereto. It is the figure which made the symbol which points out various RF tags, and each role as a table. (A) is a plan view schematically showing the execution block shown in FIGS. 3-10 and 3-11 and the position of each RF tag contained therein, and (b) is an execution block It is the table | surface which showed the place where each RF tag is arrange | positioned inside, and the conditions used as an ON state and an OFF state. (A) is a plan view schematically showing the control block shown in FIG. 3-12 and FIG. 3-13 and the position of each RF tag included therein, and (b) is a control block It is the table | surface which showed the place where each RF tag is arrange | positioned inside, and the conditions used as an ON state and an OFF state. (A) is a plan view schematically showing the argument blocks shown in FIG. 3-14 and FIG. 3-15 and the position of each RF tag contained therein, and (b) is a control block It is the table | surface which showed the place where each RF tag is arrange | positioned inside, and the conditions used as an ON state and an OFF state. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an initial state in which a control block, a first execution block, a second execution block, and an argument block are placed apart from one another. FIG. 3E is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the state immediately before in each block in the state of FIG. 3-21. FIG. FIG. 3E is a diagram showing “state 2” in which the argument block is disposed adjacent to the right of the control block from the state 1 shown in FIG. 3-21. FIG. 3-23 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 1 in each block in the state of FIG. 3-23. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing “state 3” in which an execution block is arranged adjacent to the lower right of the control block from the state 2 shown in FIG. 3-23. It is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state in each block at the time of the state of FIG. 3-25 and the previous state 2. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing “state 4” in which the second execution block is aligned and arranged below the first execution block from the state 3 shown in FIG. 3-25. FIG. 3E is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 3 in each block in the state of FIG. 3-27. FIG. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing “state 5” in which the second execution block is separated from the first execution block from the state 4 shown in FIG. 3-27. FIG. 3E is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 4 in each block in the state of FIG. 3-29. FIG. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing “state 6” in which the second execution block is arranged to be displaced leftward below the first execution block from the state 5 shown in FIG. 3-29. FIG. 3E is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the previous state 5 in each block in the state of FIG. 3-29. FIG. FIG. 3C is a view showing “state 7” in which the button of the basic block of the depression type of the first execution block is pressed from the state 6 shown in FIG. 3-31. Fig. 3-33 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 6 in each block in the state of Fig. 3-33. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing “state 8” in which the depression of the button of the depression type basic block of the first execution block is released from the state 7 shown in FIG. 3-33; It is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state in each block in the state of FIG. 3-35 and the state 7 immediately before. 3 illustrates an example of a block according to an embodiment of the present invention. Show a system with blocks. The control block is used to indicate that the blocks are connected. Fig. 4-3 shows execution blocks for realizing the arrangement of blocks having indents shown in Fig. 4-3. Fig. 4-3 shows control blocks for realizing the arrangement of blocks having indents shown in Fig. 4-3. An arrangement example of each block is shown. The example which used the block for indent return is shown. Indicates an execution block that can return two or more indents. Indicates a control block that can return two or more indents. Indicates the placement of blocks that return two or more indents. 1 shows a block with a connector using a magnet. The block which has the connector which used the uneven part is shown. The whole connector shows the block which comprises an uneven part. Fig. 6 shows the arrangement of connectors on the first side of the block. Figure 7 shows the shape of the connector on the first side of the block. Fig. 6 shows a first variant on the connector position in the block returning two indents. 7 shows a second variant of the connector position in the block returning two indents. Fig. 6 shows a first example of connector positions in a block that returns three indents. Fig. 6 shows a second embodiment of the connector position in the block returning three indents. An example is illustrated for connector positions in a block that returns seven indents. Fig. 6 shows a first embodiment of a control block with a connection limiter. 7 shows a second embodiment of a control block with a connection limiter. 7 shows a third embodiment of a control block having a connection limiting unit. The shape of a connector part is shown.

First perspective
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an apparatus for specifying the order of connection of objects as the order of operation.

Background Art As described in Patent Documents 1 to 4, a computer program generation system using a physical block is known as a technique by which a beginner can easily learn a computer program.

Prior Art Literature Patent Document 1: Patent No. 3052524 Patent Document 2: Patent No. 3024335 Patent Document 3: Patent No. 3049945 Patent Document 4: Utility Model Registration No. 3206586

Problem to be Solved by the Invention It is desired to create and enjoy operations such as computer programs more easily.

Means for solving the problem An apparatus for acquiring information possessed by each block in the order of connection.

The apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is one or more objects communicably connected to each other and each storing an instruction representing a part of the content of a series of operations and / or information relating to the instruction; A first object communicatively connected to at least one of the objects described above may be provided, the first object specifying the order of the connection of the one or more objects.

An apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is one or more objects communicatively connected to each other, each storing instructions representing parts of the content of a series of operations and / or information about said instructions Or it can be communicably connected to at least one of the two or more objects, and the order of the connection of the one or more objects can be specified.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a computer program is one or more objects communicably connected to each other, each storing an instruction representing a part of the content of a series of operations and / or information about the instruction A first object communicatively connected to at least one of the one or more objects may be used to identify the order of connection of the one or more objects.

A method according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises one or more objects communicatively connected to each other, each storing instructions representing parts of the content of a series of operations and / or information about said instructions Or a first object communicatively connected to at least one of the two or more objects may comprise identifying the order of the connection of the one or more objects.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Figure 1-1 shows an example of a control block according to an embodiment of the present invention. The block includes a start control block 102, control blocks 105, 110 and 115, and a termination control block 120. The control blocks 105, 110 and 115 have, for example, information specifying an instruction or instructions representing the contents of a program. Control blocks 105, 110 and 115 comprise non-volatile storage media storing instructions or information specifying an instruction.

The blocks 102, 105, 110, 115 and 120 may, for example, be in the shape of a cube. The shape of the cube is an example, and the shape of the block may be a geometric shape such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a sphere, a triangular prism, a rod or the like. Furthermore, the shape of the block may be a shape simulating a form such as a stuffed animal such as a non-geometric animal or a car or a robot. In other words, blocks can also be defined as objects. The start end control block 102, the control blocks 105, 110 and 115, and the end control block 120 can be connected to each other via a wired connection. The wired connection is realized by, for example, wired connection means such as serial connection, parallel connection, and USB. Also, the connection may be realized wirelessly.
In other words, each block may communicate with each other.

In FIG. 1-1, each of the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 has an instruction that represents the contents of a program. The control blocks 105, 110 and 115 have the commands "up" (move forward), "->" (turn right) and "up" (move forward). The control blocks 105, 110 and 115 are physically connected in this order by beading. Thus, the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 can be electrically connected to each other and can communicate with each other. In the present embodiment, in the control blocks 105, 110 and 115, the marks “↑”, “→” and “↑” that can be recognized from outside the block are associated with the instructions stored in the respective blocks. In addition, recognition includes visual recognition, and may further include tactile recognition, auditory recognition, olfactory recognition, and the like.

The start end control block 102 is physically connected to a block 105 which is one of the control blocks. The termination control block 120 is physically connected to a block 115 which is one of the control blocks. Thus, the start end control block 102 can be electrically connected to the end control block 120 via the control blocks 105, 110 and 115. Thus, the start control block 102, the control blocks 105, 110 and 115, and the termination control block 120 can be communicated with each other.

In response to the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 being electrically connected, the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 is sandwiched by the control blocks 105 and 120, Gather the instructions that 110 and 115 have and the order in which they are executed. Details of the collection of instructions and order of instructions will be described later. The order can be, for example, the connection order of blocks. In the example of FIG. 1A, the instruction stored by the control block 105 may be the first, the instruction stored by the control block 110 may be second, and the instruction stored by the control block 115 may be executed thirdly. .

Figure 1-2 shows a system with control blocks. A plurality of control blocks 102, 105, 110, 115 and 125 and a computer device 150 are provided.

When the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 collects an instruction, the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 transmits the collected instruction to the computer device 150 via wire or wirelessly. As a result, the user does not perform an end of the program creation including one or more instructions, without giving an explicit presentation using a button provided in the block, etc., of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120. It can be obtained by connection.

In other embodiments, only one of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 may be prepared. In this case, instead of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120, there may be one data collection block for collecting the instruction. In this case, the data collection block has a button or other input means, and in response to receiving an input from the user via the input means, the collected command is sent to the computer device 150 via wire or wirelessly. Can be sent.

The computer device 150 has a display device 152 and executes processing based on the received command. In the present embodiment, for example, the display device 152 displays the map 153 having squares and the character 154. Computing device 150 moves character 154 of display 152 based on the instructions. For example, the character 154 moves from the start mass 155 to 160 based on the instruction “↑” of the control block 105, moves from the mass 160 to 165 based on the instruction “→” of the control block 110, and Based on the instruction “↑” of the control block 115, it moves from the mass 165 to 170. This makes it easy to experience computer programming creation and execution, even for children and those who are creating programs for the first time.

Here, in the computer program, the creation and execution of the program may be the operation result of the internal register and memory in the creation of the program step and the execution of the program step or the operation result of the external I / O. In other words, by executing the program step, the execution result of the program step acts on the internal register, the memory and the external I / O to achieve a series of purposes. In addition, it is important to confirm the execution result of each step in creating a program step, and if it is different from the expected operation of the program, it is important to confirm the program configuration and contents and correct it to the correct program step. Become.
In the present invention, in teaching the concept of programming described above, creating a series of control blocks having the meaning of operation, causing the operation object to execute the series of operations defined in the control block, or If the operation of the object is different from the expected operation, the expected operation can be realized by changing the arrangement of control blocks. This is expected to be fun for teaching programming concepts in the play of arranging blocks even without using a real programming language in creating program steps and verifying execution of program steps in programming.

In the above embodiment, when preparing both the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120, the start end control block 102 (or the end control block 120) electrically connects the end control block 120 (or the start end control block 102). In response to detecting that the connection has been made, the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 can perform, for example, collection of instructions and / or transmission of instructions to the computing device 150. In this case, the electrical connection between the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 triggers the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 to start processing such as collecting of instructions.

In another embodiment, the start control block 102 (or end control block 120) may periodically collect instructions from each control block. In response to detecting that the start end control block 102 (or the end control block 120) is electrically connected to the end control block 120 (or the start end control block 102), the start end control block 102 and / or the end Control block 120 may send the collected instructions to computing device 150.

In another embodiment, only one of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 is prepared. That is, instead of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120, data collection blocks are prepared. In this case, an input by the user or the like serves as a trigger for starting processing such as collection of instructions. In one embodiment, the data collection block comprises input means for receiving input by the user. The input means can be means for directly receiving the user's input such as a button, a liquid crystal touch panel or the like. In one embodiment, the data collection block has input means for receiving user input from an external device (e.g., the computer device 150 or another device) wirelessly or via a wire, and data collection triggered by the input from the external device You may Thus, the data collection block may collect and / or send instructions from each control block in response to the input means receiving input from the user.

In another embodiment, the data collection block may collect instructions from each control block periodically (e.g., 1 second, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc.) without receiving user input or the like.
In this case, the data collection block can transmit the collected command in response to the input unit receiving an input from the user.

In another embodiment, the start end control block 102 and / or the end control block 120 detects the above electrical connection between the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 and further receives an input from the user. In response, processing such as collection of instructions may be initiated.

In another embodiment, the connection of each block may be implemented wirelessly. The control blocks 105, 110 and 115 may have a storage medium that the reader can read wirelessly. One of the start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 has a reader and can communicate with the control blocks 105, 110 and 115. This allows the reader to read information from the storage medium. For example, the user may obtain control block information by moving the block with the reader along the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 arranged as shown in FIGS. 1-1 and 1-2. it can. In one embodiment, an RFID tag may be used as a wirelessly readable storage medium for the reader, and an RFID reader may be used as the reader.

Control blocks 105, 110 and 115 may be configured to accept blocks with a reader based on physical shape. For example, in each of the control blocks 105, 110 and 115, their upper surfaces are provided with a rail shape, and when the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 are aligned, one rail is formed on their upper surfaces. The rail is configured to conform to the shape of at least a portion of the block with the leader. This allows the user to move the top of the blocks with the reader along the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 more precisely.

In the above embodiment, the collection of the instructions includes at least one of the collection of the instructions themselves, the order in which the instructions are to be executed, an identifier identifying the instructions, and an identifier of the instructions and control blocks such as an identifier of each control block. Can be included.

The above-described example in which the computer device 150 operates the character based on the command is an example, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the character may be an object such as a vehicle. In other embodiments, it may be an operable object instead of the computing device 150. For example, the object that receives the command from the termination control block 120 may be an object with moving means such as wheels. In other embodiments, the data collection block, the start control block 102 and / or the termination control block 120 may not send instructions. For example, at least one of the blocks itself (e.g., any of blocks 102-120) may be configured to operate (e.g., move, glow, make sound, etc.) based on the instruction. . In other embodiments, all blocks (eg, all blocks of blocks 102-120) may be configured to operate based on an instruction.

In the above-described embodiment, the instructions included in the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 (such as the “up” or “forward” instructions included in the control block 105) are examples and are not limited thereto. The commands that the control blocks 105, 110 and 115 have may be human-readable commands such as vision, hearing, touch, taste and smell. For example, visual instructions can be based on movement, light, color, etc. Auditory commands can be sound based. Tactile commands can be based on sensing by touch, such as movement or vibration.

FIG. 1-3 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment with blocks connected. In the present embodiment, the entire apparatus 300 includes five blocks, a data acquisition block 302, a first control block 304, a second control block 306, a third control block 308, and a fourth control block 310. Contains. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the number of control blocks is exemplary and may be less than four or more than four.

The data collection block 302 includes a control unit 322, an external input / output interface 324, a transmission unit 326, a connection detection unit 328, a reception unit 330, and a unique information storage unit 332. The first control block 304, the second control block 306, the third control block 308, and the fourth control block 310 are the control unit 342, the connection notification unit 344, the transmission unit 346, the connection detection unit 348, and the reception unit 350. And a unique information storage unit 352 and a transmission destination switching unit 354.
The first control block 304, the second control block 306, the third control block 308, and the fourth control block 310 may have substantially the same configuration.

The control unit 322 of the data acquisition block 302 and the control unit 342 of the control blocks 304 to 310 have at least a processor and a memory, and control each of the blocks provided with the control unit. The external input / output interface 324 of the data collection block 302 is an interface for communicating with an external device such as the computer device 150. The transmitting unit 326 and the receiving unit 330 of the data collection block 302, and the transmitting unit 346 and the receiving unit 350 of the control unit 342 of each control block 304 to 310 enable communication between the blocks.
The unique information storage unit 332 of the data collection block 302 and the unique information storage unit 352 of each control block define an identifier of the block and a part of a series of predetermined operations, and control instructions and blocks associated with the block. It stores instructions (computer programs) for causing the computer to

The connection detection unit 328 of the data acquisition block 302 detects that the control block is connected. In one embodiment, the data collection block 302 has a convex connector connected to the connection detector 328, and each control block has a concave connector connected to the connection notifier 344. When the convex connector of the data collection block 302 is connected to the concave connector of the first control block 304, the connection notification unit 344 of the first control block 304 connects the data collection block 302 to the first control block 304. Is notified to the data collection block 302, and the connection detection unit 328 of the data collection block 302 detects that the first control block 304 is connected to the data collection block 302.

Each control block includes, for example, a connection detection unit 348 having a convex connector, and can connect the convex connector to a concave connector connected to the connection notification unit 344 of another control block. Thus, for example, the connection detection unit 348 of the first control block 304 can use the connection notification unit 344 of the second control block 306 to detect that these blocks are connected. Each control block includes a transmission destination switching unit 354.
The transmission destination switching unit 354 is connected to the connection detection unit 348. The transmission destination switching unit 348 switches the transmission destination of the transmission unit 346 in response to the connection detection unit 348 detecting a connection to another control block. For example, each control block has a concave connector on the left side (the side closer to the data collection block 302 in the control block with respect to FIGS. 1-3) and the side far from the data collection block 302 in the control block ) Has a convex connector, the transmission destination switching unit 354 of each control block can switch transmission of the transmitter 346 via the convex connector or the concave connector. That is, the first control block 304 can send or switch data to the data collection block 302 or to the second control block 306. Specifically, the first control block 304 transmits data to the second control block 306 using the transmission destination switching unit 354 in response to the connection detection unit 348 detecting the connection, and detects the connection. In response to not, data is sent to the data collection block 302. In the present embodiment, switching of the transmission destination to the left concave connector is performed only by the fourth control block 310. By forming a line for transmitting data from the fourth control block 310 to the data collection block 302 by connecting each block, the transmitter 346 of the fourth control block 310 transmits the transmitters of the other control blocks. Information may be sent to data collection block 302 without using. Thereby, the parts of the transmitting unit can be reduced.

FIG. 1-4 shows a process flow of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1-3. First, the data collection block 302 sends a request for collecting information stored by each control block to the first control block 304 (step 405). The first control block 304 acquires the first information from the unique information storage unit 352 using the control unit 342 in response to being connected to the second control block 306, and transmits the request and the first information. Are sent to the second control block 306 (step 410). The first information may include at least one of an identifier of the first control block 304 and an instruction associated with the first control block 304. The second control block 306 acquires second information from the unique information storage unit 352. Thereby, the second control block 306 can obtain the request and the first information and the second information received from the first control block 304. The second control block 306 sends the request, the first information and the second information to the third control block 308 (step 415).

The third control block 308 acquires the third information from the unique information storage unit 352, and transmits the request, the first information, the second information, and the third information to the fourth control block 310 (steps 420). The fourth control block 310 acquires fourth information from the unique information storage unit 352. In addition, the fourth control block 310 detects, for example, that there is no connection of the convex connector on the right side (the side far from the data acquisition block 302 in the control block with reference to FIGS. 1-3). The fourth control block 310 decides to send the data to the left concave connector (the side closer to the data collection block 302 in the control block with respect to FIG. 1-3) in response to detecting that there is no further connection. Do. The fourth control block 310 includes the request, the first information, the second information, the third information and the fourth information, the third control block 308, the second control block 306 and the first control block 304. To the data collection block 302 (step 425). The data collection block 302 identifies the execution order by sequentially combining the first information, the second information, the third information, and the fourth information associated with its own control block. You can get the instruction. In one embodiment, the first information, the second information, the third information and the fourth information may be identifiers of blocks respectively associated with them. Thereby, the data collection block 302 can obtain the connection order of the control block from the alignment of the identifiers.

As described above, the connection detection unit 348 of each control block can detect the presence of the next control block by being connected to the connection notification unit 344 of the next control block, but the control block to which the connection notification unit 344 is not connected Is determined to be the endmost control block, and in the control block, the received data is folded back via the transmitter and transmitted to the data collection block 322.

In another embodiment, the data collection block 302 can send the control block an instruction to control the control block. For example, after step 425, data collection block 302 may maintain an identifier for each control block. In one embodiment, the data collection block 302 may control the third control block 308 via the first control block 304 and the second control block 306 based on third information including the third control block identifier. An instruction can be sent to (steps 450, 455, 460). The instruction may be an instruction for operating the third control block 308. At this time, each control block passes the received instruction to the transmission unit as it is if the received instruction is not the instruction of the block, transmits to the next control block, and performs processing if the instruction is to the block. For example, the data collection block 302 sends an instruction to generate light to the third control block 308, and the third control block 308 emits light based on this instruction. For example, after the data collection block 302 has acquired the third information from the third control block 308, it sends an instruction to the third control block 308 to generate light. This allows the user to know that the data collection block 302 has acquired the information stored in the third control block 308.

In another embodiment, the data collection block 302 can obtain information on change of control block status that has occurred arbitrarily. For example, the second control block 306 obtains information indicating that the state has changed and the changed second information, and transmits the information to the third control block 308 (step 465). The third control block 308 sends the received information to the fourth control block 310 (step 470). The fourth control block 310 sends the received information to the data collection block 302 via the third control block 308, the second control block 306 and the first control block 304 (step 475). The data collection block 302 may obtain information indicating that the state has changed in the second control block 306 and the changed second information. For example, if the information collected from the control block is a computer program and the second information indicates a loop and a loop count in the program, the data collection block 302 may change the loop count changed in the second control block 306, etc. It can be collected. In this case, the second control block 306 can have an input unit for receiving an input of information representing a change in state of the block.

In the above example, the state change of each block occurs in one shot, but in consideration of the case where the state change occurs simultaneously from a plurality of blocks, a polling instruction is periodically sent from the data collection block, and each control block After receiving the polling command, the information on the status change can be delivered to the data collection block by adding the information on the status change to the polling command and transmitting it to the next block.

FIG. 1-5 shows a schematic view of the second embodiment with blocks connected. In the present embodiment, the entire apparatus 500 includes five blocks, a data acquisition block 502, a first control block 504, a second control block 506, a third control block 508, and a fourth control block 510. Contains. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the number of control blocks is exemplary and may be less than four or more than four.

The data collection block 502 includes a control unit 522, an external input / output interface 524, a transmission unit 526, a connection detection unit 528, a reception unit 530, and a unique information storage unit 532. The first control block 504, the second control block 506, the third control block 508, and the fourth control block 510 are the control unit 542, the connection notification unit 544, the first transmission unit 546, the connection detection unit 548, A first reception unit 550, a unique information storage unit 552, a second transmission unit 556, and a second reception unit 554 are provided. The first control block 504, the second control block 506, the third control block 508, and the fourth control block 510 may have substantially the same configuration.

The configuration of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. However, in the present embodiment, each control block does not have the transmission destination switching unit 354 and has one more transmitting unit and receiving unit than the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, each control block includes a first transmission unit 546, a first reception unit 550, a second transmission unit 556, and a second reception unit 554, and the first transmission unit 546 of the control block. The second reception unit 554 can be connected to the first reception unit 550 and the second transmission unit 556 of another control block, respectively. Also, the first receiving unit 550 and the second transmitting unit 556 of the control block may be connected to the transmitting unit 526 and the receiving unit 530 of the data collection block 502, respectively.

1-6 show the process flow of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1-5. First, the data collection block 502 sends a request to collect information stored by each control block to the first control block 504 (step 605). After waiting for a predetermined time (Tx), the first control block 504 acquires the first information from the unique information storage unit 552 using the control unit 542, and sends the first information to the data collection block 502. Send (step 510). The first control block 504 sends a request to the second control block 506 (step 515). After receiving the request, the second control block 506 waits for a predetermined time (Tx) as in the first control block 504, and then acquires second information from its own storage unit, It is sent towards the collecting block 502 (steps 520 and 525) and a request is sent to the third control block 508 (step 530). After receiving the request, the third control block 508 waits for a predetermined time (Tx) as in the first control block 504, and then acquires third information from its own storage unit, It is sent towards the collecting block 502 (steps 535, 540 and 545) and the request is sent to the fourth control block 510 (step 550). After receiving the request, the fourth control block 510 waits for a predetermined time (Tx) as in the first control block 504, and then acquires fourth information from its own storage unit, Transmit to collection block 502 (steps 565, 570, 575 and 580).

The data collection block 502 rearranges the first to fourth pieces of information in order of time they were received. If the information includes a control block identifier, data collection block 502 can identify the order of connection of each control block. When such information includes, for example, a part of computer program instructions, a series of instructions can be created by combining the parts of the instructions in the order of connection.

In one embodiment, data collection block 502 may have a maximum latency to receive data. The maximum latency can be based on the maximum number of connections of the control block.
This allows data collection block 502 to better collect information by setting a maximum latency.

FIG. 1-7 shows a process flow according to a modification of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1-5. The data collection block 522 may send the request to the fourth control block 510 via the first control block 504, the second control block 506 and the third control block 508 (steps 705, 710, 720) And 725). In one embodiment, transmission of information may be performed using a receiver and a transmitter in each control block. In another embodiment, the request may be sent as a signal. In this case, each block may be configured to form a signal line by connection. The data acquisition block 522 can transmit signals to the fourth control block 510 via the signal lines in each control block. Thereby, one set of receiver and transmitter in each control block can be eliminated.

Each control block can determine, using the connection detection unit 548, whether the control block is further connected. In the first, second and third control blocks 502, 506 and 508 of this embodiment, each connection detection unit 548 further detects that a control block is connected. In the fourth control block 510, the connection detection unit 548 further detects that the control block is not connected. Thereby, the first, second and third control blocks 502, 506 and 508 transmit the request to the control block to which they are connected, and the fourth control block 510 transmits because there is no further connection. It is decided to point ahead to the data collection block 502. The fourth control block 510 gets the fourth information from its storage and sends the request and the fourth information to the fourth control block 508 (step 730). In the third control block 508, the second control block 506 obtains the third, second and first information from its own storage device and combines them in order, respectively. The combined information and request are sent sequentially to data collection block 502 (steps 735, 740, 745). Thereby, the data collection block 502 can combine the information possessed by each control block in the order of connection.

The start end control block 102 and the end control block 120 described in the above embodiments mean the start and end of an instruction included in the control block, respectively. Thus, if it is the beginning in a given sequence of instructions it may end in another sequence of instructions, or if it is a termination in a given sequence of instructions it will start in another sequence of instructions It can be done. In yet another embodiment, the start control block 102 or the end control block 120 in a given set of instructions can be the control block in another set of instructions.

In the above embodiment, each control block may store information on instructions in place of the instructions of the computer program. In this case, the data collection block can convert the information into an instruction after acquiring information on the instruction.

In the above embodiment, the information stored by each control block may not be a computer program instruction. For example, the stored information can be information representing a part of content operated by an external device or the like. For example, when the operation content is reproduction of a moving image, the information corresponding to a part of the operation content can be information of one or more still images, and when the operation content is reproduction of sound, the operation content The information corresponding to a part of may be information of one or more sounds. Thus, the information to be stored in each control block can be changed according to the operation content.

In the above embodiment, although the termination control block 120 performs control processing such as acquisition of instructions and communication, the start end control block 102 may execute these processing instead of the termination control block 120.

In the above embodiments, some or all of the elements described to be implemented in hardware can be implemented in software, and some elements described to be implemented in software It will be appreciated that some or all of the can be implemented in hardware.

In the processing or processing order described above, in a certain processing, processing or processing order as long as there is no inconsistency in processing or processing order such as using data which should not be available in the processing, etc. Can be changed freely.

With regard to each of the embodiments described above, some or all of the embodiments may be combined and implemented as one embodiment.

Each embodiment described above is an illustration for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The present invention can be practiced in various forms without departing from the scope of the invention.

The "apparatus" in the claims may be a programming educational toy. In a programming educational toy, a child can learn the concept of programming using the blocks described in the above embodiments. Also, adults can teach programming concepts to children more easily using programming educational toys.

Second point of view
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an apparatus for associating content with a block.

BACKGROUND ART A toy is known which arranges blocks associated with content data or the like which is a part of content representing an operation such as a computer program or the like, and executes the content, displays or the like according to the connection order. Such toys are known as educational toys, educational toys and the like. In such conventional toys, the user can not change the content associated with the block.

There is a need for a toy that provides more flexible play by assigning content data to each block.

Means for Solving the Problems A block toy according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a block control device and one or more toy blocks connected to the block control device, the block control device comprising the block And at least a part of the correspondence between the content data associated with the content and the block.

In the block toy according to the embodiment of the present invention, the toy block is associated with each piece of content data obtained by dividing predetermined content.

In the block toy according to the embodiment of the present invention, the toy blocks are connected to each other in a beaded connection.

In the block toy according to the embodiment of the present invention, the toy block has an identifier.

In the block toy according to the embodiment of the present invention, the block control device collects the identifier from the block, identifies the connection order of the blocks, and the block control device further determines the connection order according to the connection order. Control execution or playback of content data associated with the block.

In the block toy according to the embodiment of the present invention, the block control device specifies the indent information of the block based on the signal information.

A block control device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be connected to one or more toy blocks, and switch at least a part of the correspondence between content data associated with the blocks and the blocks.

A block controller according to embodiments of the present invention may be in communication with a toy block.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In the following description, like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elements.

Overview FIG. 2-1 shows an example of a block according to an embodiment of the present invention. The blocks have a start block 102 and execution blocks 105, 110 and 115. Execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, for example, comprise information identifying an instruction or instructions representative of the contents of a program. The execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 comprise storage media storing at least information about the content associated with the respective block. Information on content can be information on the content itself, an identifier for identifying the content, or the like. The storage medium of each block may store information such as the position of the block when the block is connected and the connection order. The start block 102 has a storage medium, and stores information indicating the relationship between each block and each content, and information such as the position of the block when the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 are connected, and the connection order. It may be done.
The storage medium may be non-volatile, volatile or both.

The blocks 102, 105, 110 and 115 may, for example, be in the shape of a cube. The shape of the cube is an example, and the shape of the block may be a geometric shape such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a sphere, a triangular prism, a rod or the like. Furthermore, the shape of the block may be a shape simulating a form such as a stuffed animal such as a non-geometric animal or a car or a robot. In other words, blocks can also be defined as objects. The start block 102 and the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 can be connected to each other via a wired connection. The wired connection is realized by, for example, wired connection means such as serial connection, parallel connection, and USB. Also, the connection may be realized wirelessly. In other words, each execution block only needs to be able to communicate to the start block 102.

In FIG. 2-1, each of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 has an instruction (content) representing the content of the program or information identifying the instruction. The instructions in execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 are respectively "up" (up (forward)), "->" (turn right) and "up" (up (forward)). The execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 are physically connected in this order by beading. As a result, the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 can be electrically connected to each other, communicate with each other, or communicate with at least the start block 102 via another execution block. In this embodiment, in the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, the marks "↑", "→" and "↑" that can be recognized from outside the block are associated with the instructions of the respective blocks. Also, recognition includes visual recognition. In another embodiment, the recognition may include at least one of tactile recognition, auditory recognition, olfactory recognition, and gustatory recognition. Furthermore, in other embodiments, recognition may not be necessary. This makes it difficult to arrange the blocks correctly and can enhance gameplay by not recognizing the block instructions.

The start block 102 is physically connected to the block 105 which is one of the execution blocks. Thus, the start block 102 can be electrically connected to the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115. Thus, start block 102, execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 can communicate with each other, or start block 102 can communicate with each block. Thus, the start block 102 specifies that the execution block 105 is first, the execution block 110 is second and the execution block 115 is third, that is, the connection order of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115. be able to.

Figure 2-2 shows a system with blocks. A plurality of blocks 102, 105, 110, 115 and a computer device 150 are provided.

The start block 102 can specify the execution order of the instructions (content) of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 based on the connection order of the specified execution blocks.
The start block 102 or other block may transmit the execution order and content to the computing device 150 via a wired and / or wireless link 125.

The computer device 150 has a display device 152, and executes processing based on the received execution order and content. In the present embodiment, for example, the display device 152 displays the map 153 having squares and the character 154. Computing device 150 moves character 154 of display 152 based on the instructions. For example, the character 154 moves from the start mass 155 to 160 based on the instruction “↑” of the execution block 105, moves from the mass 160 to 165 based on the instruction “→” of the execution block 110, and Based on the instruction “↑” of the execution block 115, the cell moves from the mass 165 to 170. The arrangement order of the blocks makes it possible for children and even first time program creators to enjoy the same experience as creating and executing computer programming.

In the present embodiment, the content is a computer program indicating an operation of an object or the like, and the operation is executed by the computer device 150, but an operation may be performed at the start block 102. In other embodiments, whether the content is voice, music, video, etc., the content may be executed or played back at the computing device 150 or the start block 102.

Example 1
(Example using only execution block)
Figure 2-3 shows an overview of the inside of the start block. The start block 102 includes a processor 305, a ROM 310, a RAM 315, and a connector 320. Furthermore, the start block 102 may be equipped with a power supply, or may be equipped with a power supply connector to which power is supplied from the outside (the configuration regarding the power supply is not shown). The connector 320 can be connected to the upper connector 510 of the execution block described later. The processor 305 can execute instructions based on a computer program stored in the ROM 310, control the start block 102 itself, and can also control a connected execution block. For example, the processor 305 can specify the connection order of the connected execution blocks by controlling the execution blocks.

The RAM 315 can be a non-volatile storage medium. The RAM 315 has a content table 410, an identifier correspondence information table 420, and a block connection information table 430 shown in FIG. The content table 410 has content identifiers and content data. The content identifier is unique for each content data. The content data is data of an instruction related to an operation or step corresponding to the computer program when the content is a computer program, and is music data obtained by dividing one song appropriately when the content is music, and the content is a moving image In this case, one moving image can be appropriately divided into moving image data. In other embodiments, the content may be other than computer programs, music and videos, or other content. Content data can be at least part of content.

The identifier correspondence information table 420 has at least a block identifier and a content identifier. The block identifier is an identifier uniquely assigned to each block. For example, “0101”, “0102” and “0103” indicated in the block identifier of the identifier correspondence information table 420 are stored in the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, respectively. Also, the block identifier is associated with the associated content identifier. For example, content identifiers "001", "002" and "003" are associated with the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, respectively. As a result, content data "AAA", "BBB" and "CCC" are associated with the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, respectively. For example, as shown in FIG. 2-2, when the content relates to a computer program, the content data "AAA", "BBB" and "CCC" are respectively "↑" (up (forward)), "→" ( Turn to the right) and "↑" (to go up).

The block connection information table 430 is used to specify the connection order of the connected execution blocks. When the start block 102 is connected to the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, the processor 305 obtains the block identifier of each execution block from the execution block ROM 520 or RAM 530 in a manner described later, and specifies the order of connection. . The processor 305 creates or updates the block identifier and the connection order in the block connection information table. In the block connection information table 430 of FIG. 2-4, an execution block 105 (block identifier: 0101), an execution block 110 (block identifier: 0102), and an execution block 115 (block identifier: 0103) are connected in this order. Indicates Specifically, in the block connection information table 430, the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 correspond to the block identifiers "0101", "0102" and "0103", respectively, from the block near the start block 102, It is shown that "1st", "2" and "3" are connected as position information.

Therefore, the start block 102 can identify the order of execution and reproduction of content data using the tables 410, 420, 430 based on the position information of the execution block.

Figure 2-5 shows an overview of the interior of the execution block. The execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 each include an upper connector 510, a processor 515, a ROM 520, a RAM 530, and a lower connector 535. The upper connector 510 of the execution block can be connected to the connector 320 of the start block and the lower connector 535 of other execution blocks. For example, the upper connector 510 of the execution block 105 is connected to the connector 320 of the start block 102, and the lower connector 535 of the execution block 105 is connected to the upper connector 510 of the other execution block 110. The execution block ROM 520 or RAM 530 stores at least the block identifier of the execution block. In this case, the RAM 530 can be a non-volatile storage medium. Thereby, the block identifier of the RAM 530 can be rewritten.

When execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 are connected to start block 102, start block 102 sends an instruction specifying the connection order of execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 to each execution block. For example, when the execution block 105 receives an instruction specifying the connection order, it transmits its own block identifier “0101” to the execution block 110 which is a lower block. When the execution block 110 receives the block identifier information "0101", the execution block 110 adds its own block identifier "0102" and transmits the block identifier information "0101: 0102" to the execution block 115 which is a lower block. . If execution block 115 detects that there is no other execution block connected to lower connector 535, then execution block 115 may determine that there is no connection below execution block 115. When the execution block 115 receives the block identifier information "0101: 0102", the execution block 115 adds its own block identifier "0103" in response to the absence of the connection below the execution block 115, and the block identifier information " 0101: 0102: 0103 ”are sent to the start block 102 via the execution blocks 105 and 110. As a result, the start block 102 has the block identifier “0101” as the first connection order and the block identifier “0102” as the second as the connection order based on the received information “0101: 0102: 0103” of the block identifier. And the block identifier “0103” can be specified to be third.

In the above example, the content is a computer program, and other information may be the content. The content can be, for example, music, video, or the like.

When the content is music, moving pictures, etc., the content can be divided into one unit like one song, one TV program, one movie, one moving picture. In such an example, the content identifier table may add one unit as an item of the table. For example, FIG. 2-6 shows a modification of the content identifier table. In FIG. 2-6, the content group "A" is a piece of music or one of three data "AAA", "BBB", and "CCC" corresponding to the content identifiers "001", "002" and "003". It becomes one animation. The data "AAA", "BBB" and "CCC" corresponding to the content identifiers "001", "002" and "003" correspond to one section (one phrase) of a song and one chapter in a moving image, respectively. . The content groups “B” and “C” indicate that the content group “A” is a different work from the songs or videos of the content group “A”. In another embodiment, the content data may be data based on units that constitute the content, such as a note or a sound related to a note, a still image, and the like.

Content group "A" is played back as songs or videos in the correct order when content data "AAA", "BBB" and "CCC" are played back in this order. In this case, the execution blocks are connected in the order of execution block 105, execution block 110, and execution block 115. If the execution blocks are connected in the order of execution block 110, execution block 105 and execution block 115, content data "BBB", "AAA" and "CCC" are reproduced in this order. In this case, it is played back as a song or video in the wrong order. In another embodiment, the user may be notified that the connection order is incorrect. Thus, the user of the toy can connect and play the blocks so that the content data plays the songs or videos in the correct order. On the other hand, when the block of the content group "A" is played a plurality of times, it is known which block is associated with which content data. Then, the user gets bored playing with blocks. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present invention, content data to be assigned to a block by changing the correspondence relationship of the identifier correspondence information table whenever playing a block, playing a predetermined number of times, or receiving a user instruction Change By making it possible to change the content data to be assigned to the block, it is possible to make the user interested and not get bored. In FIG. 2-4, the block identifiers “0101”, “0102” and “0103” correspond to the content identifiers “001”, “002” and “003”, respectively. For example, when power is supplied to the start block 102 such as playing next block, the correspondence between the block identifier and the content identifier may be dynamically changed. For example, the block identifiers "0101", "0102" and "0103" correspond to the content identifiers "001", "003" and "002", respectively. Thus, by changing the content data associated with the execution block, the user can enjoy the block toy forever without getting bored. Further, data of another content group "B" or "C" may be associated with each execution block.

Also, the content may be a computer program. By dynamically changing the correspondence between the block identifier and the content identifier associated with the computer program, it is possible to further enhance the gameplay in the creation of the computer program and to make the user interested.

Example 2
(Example using control block)
In addition to the execution block, the control block allows the user to have an idea close to the concept of computer program creation. Examples of control blocks include a repeat (loop), a conditional branch (branch), a function definition, and a function call (function call) function. In this embodiment, it is necessary to be able to at least identify whether each block is an execution block or a control block. In one embodiment, the control block includes at least a connector, a processor, a RAM, and a ROM, as with the execution block.

FIG. 2-7 shows a modification of the identifier correspondence information table. The identifier correspondence information table 710 has a block type in addition to the block identifier and the content identifier. The block type indicates whether the block is an execution block or a control block. For example, if the block is an execution block, the block type can be “7”. If the block type is “0”, “2” to “6”, the block can be a control block. Each block can be, for example, as follows.
Block type "0": No operation Block type "1": Start block type "2": Function definition block type "3": Repetition (loop)
Block type "4": conditional branch (branch)
Block type "5": function call (function call)
Block type "6": Setting block type "7": Execution

(Function definition)
For example, when using a "function definition" block as a control block, connections can be made in the following order. A "function definition" block is a block that defines the start of execution or playback of independent content data.
1. Main block group (1-1) "start" block (1-2) second "execution" block (1-3) "function call (function call)" block Function definition block group (2-1) "function definition" block (2-2) first "execution" block Thus, (2-1) placed under the "function definition" block (2-2) The first "execution" block is defined as a function. (1-3) "Function call (function call)" block and (2-1) "Function definition" block are associated in advance. For example, the start block 102 may store the identifier of the function call (function call) block and the identifier of the function definition block in association with each other. A function definition block comprising a first function definition block and a first function call (function call) block and a second function definition block and a second function call (function call) block and a function call (function call) block By preparing two sets, multiple function definition blocks can be defined. There may be three or more sets. The association between the function call (function call) block and the function definition block may be changed.

(1-1) The "start" block and the (2-1) "function definition" block can be connected by wire or wirelessly. For example, as shown in FIG. 2-17, the start block 102 and the function definition block have a configuration in which connectors 1720 and 1730 are added to the configuration shown in FIG. 2-3 and FIG. can do. The start block 102 has a function definition connector 1720, and the function definition block has a first function definition connector 1730 and a second function definition connector 1740. The start block 102 recognizes the block connected to the function definition connector 1720 as a function definition block. The function definition block can be connected to the first function definition connector 1730 of another function definition block via the second function definition connector 1740. Thereby, two or more function definition block groups can be connected.

(1-1) The "start" block executes or plays back the content of the (1-2) second "execution" block. Then, the “start” block executes the functions defined in the function definition block group in (6) “function call (function call)” block. The content of the function in the function definition block group is the execution or reproduction of the content of the (2-2) first “execution” block defined above. In another embodiment, after the (1-3) "function call" block, the "no operation" block may be arranged. Thereby, the "start" block may be configured to recognize the return destination after executing the function.

(Repeat (loop))
For example, when using "repeat (loop)" as a control block, connection can be performed in the following order.
(1) "start" block (2) "repetition (loop)" block (3) "setting" block (4) first "execution" block (5) "no operation" block This makes (2) "repetition" The contents of the first "execution" block placed between the (loop) block and (3) "setting" block and (5) "no action" block are used as arguments in the "setting" block. It is repeatedly executed or reproduced for several minutes of the set value.
In the present embodiment, each “setting” block may have information such as a corresponding numerical value in advance. For example, the first "setting" block has the value "1", the second "setting" block has the value "2", and the third "setting" block has the value "3". You may have.

In another embodiment, the "setting" block may allow the user to input information such as the value to be set. For example, a button is provided in the “setting” block, and the user can use this button to input any one value of 1, 2, 3. In the present embodiment, a column of “setting” may be added to the block connection information table 430 shown in FIG. For example, when collecting the information of each block, the start block 102 also collects the information input in the “setting” block, and the column “setting data corresponding to the block identifier of the“ setting ”in the block connection information table 430 Update the item with the collected information. In other embodiments, the buttons of the "set" block are an example, and the "set" block may have other forms of input devices in place of or in addition to the button. In another embodiment, the "setting" block may include a receiving device that receives information to be set from another device instead of or in addition to the input device.

In the above example, the configuration block is connected below the repeat (loop) block.
In another embodiment, the side surfaces of the repeat (loop) block and the side surfaces of the setting block may be connected by a connector. Since the configuration block only needs to be able to send the number of loops, the amount of information to be sent is relatively small. Thus, the connector may be an optical transceiver. In this case, the repeat (loop) block comprises an optical receiver and the configuration block comprises an optical transmitter. This allows the configuration block to transmit the information to be configured to the optical repetition (loop) block. An example of an optical receiver is an infrared transceiver.

(Conditional branch (branch))
For example, when using a "conditional branch (branch)" block as a control block, connection can be performed in the following order.
(1) "Start" block (2) "Conditional branch (branch)" block (3) First "execution" block (4) "No operation" block Thus, (2) "Conditional branch (branch)" block The content of the (3) first "execution" block disposed between the (4) and the "no operation" block is executed or reproduced when the condition of the "condition branch (branch)" is satisfied. As an example of the condition of “conditional branch (branch)”, it can be assumed that the condition is satisfied at a predetermined time (eg, if the condition is between 12:00 and 15:00, the first “ The content of the "execution" block is executed or reproduced).

(Repetition (loop) and conditional branch (branch))
For example, when using "repeat (loop)" blocks and "conditional branch (branch)" blocks as control blocks, connections can be made in the following order.
(1) "Start" block (2) "Repeat (loop)" block (repeat three times)
(3) first "execution" block (4) "conditional branch (branch)" block (5) second "execution" block (6) second "no operation" block (7) first "operation""None" block This causes the (3) first "execution" block to be placed between (2) the "repeat (loop)" block (three repetitions) and (7) the first "no action" block. Content is repeatedly executed or reproduced three times. In addition, (4) “conditional branch (branch)” block is repeated three times to determine the condition. (4) The content of the second "execution" block disposed between the "condition branch (branch)" block and the (6) second "no operation" block is "conditional branch (branch)" Is executed or reproduced when the condition of As an example of the condition of “conditional branch (branch)”, processing in the conditional branch (branch) is executed or reproduced when the number of loops is the first. In this embodiment, after the content data of the first "execution" block and the second "execution" block is executed or reproduced, the content data of the first "execution" block is repeatedly executed or reproduced twice. Ru. In another embodiment, the numerical value "3" in the "repeating three times" of the "repeating (loop)" block and the numerical value "1" in the condition "first number of times of looping" in the "conditional branch (branch)" are respectively , May be set by the setting block.

Example 3
(Example of applying indent to block)
In the second embodiment described above, in order to specify the “execution” block that is the control target of the “function definition” block, the “repeat (loop)” block, and the “conditional branch (branch)” block, Blocks were identified by being sandwiched between "function definition" blocks, "repetition (loop)" blocks, "conditional branch (branch)" blocks and "no action" blocks. In the present embodiment, by applying an indent to the "execution" block to be controlled, it is possible to easily understand which block is to be controlled visually. Also, placement of blocks using indents can help the user to more easily learn grammars close to the actual computer program. Furthermore, in computer programs, indenting is visually recommended by digitizing the steps or the like to be processed. Also, in modern computer languages, indenting is required to define the steps to be processed. Therefore, learning how to use indents can also be useful for learning real computer programs. As an example of indenting in blocks, this can be realized by, for example, arranging blocks to be offset by a fixed length without aligning the blocks with the previous block in two or more blocks arranged.

Fig. 2-8 (a) shows an outline of the inside of the start block. The start block 102 has a processor 305, a ROM 310, a RAM 315, and a connector 320, as shown in FIG. 2-3. The position of the connector 320 in FIG. 2-8 (a) is different from the position of the connector 320 in FIG. 2-3 and is shifted to the left side rather than at the longitudinal center of the second surface of the start block 102.

FIG. 2-8 (b) shows the start block 102 in FIG. 2-8 (a) viewed from the direction of the arrow 805, and shows the second surface of the start block 102. FIG. In the second plane, the connector 320 is closer to the left in the longitudinal direction and centrally located in the lateral direction.
The dotted line connecting FIGS. 2-8 (a) and 2-8 (b) corresponds to the position of the connector 320 in FIG. 2-8 (a) in the longitudinal direction of the second surface of the start block 102. Indicates

Fig. 2-9 (b) shows an outline of the inside of the execution block. The execution blocks 105, 110, 115 have a processor 515, a ROM 520, a RAM 530 and a lower connector 535 as shown in FIGS. In this implementation, the execution blocks 105, 110, 115 have a first upper connector 905 and a second upper connector 910 instead of the upper connector 510 in FIGS. The first upper connector 905 is on the left side in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block. The second upper connector 910 is shifted to the right in the longitudinal direction of the execution block first surface.

FIG. 2-9 (a) shows the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 in FIG. 2-9 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 950, and the first surface of the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 is shown. Show. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 905 is closer to the left in the longitudinal direction, and the second upper connector 910 is positioned closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the first aspect, both the first upper connector 905 and the second upper connector 910 are centrally located in the lateral direction. The dotted lines connecting FIGS. 2-9 (a) and 2-9 (b) indicate that the positions of the first upper connector 905 and the second upper connector 910 in FIG. 2-9 (b) are the execution blocks 105 and 110, respectively. It shows that they correspond in the longitudinal direction of the first surface 115.

FIG. 2-9 (c) shows the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 in FIG. 2-9 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 955, and the second surface of the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 is shown. Show. In the second aspect, the lower connector 535 is located closer to the left in the longitudinal direction, unlike the position of the lower connector 535 in FIGS. In the second aspect, the lower connector 535 is centrally located in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 2-9 (b) and 2-9 (c) indicates that the position of the lower connector 535 in FIG. 2-9 (b) is the longitudinal direction of the second surface of the execution block 105, 110, 115. Indicates that it corresponds.

FIG. 2-10 (b) shows an overview of the inside of the control block. The control block includes at least a "function definition" block, a "function call (function call)" block, a "conditional branch (branch)" block, a "repetition (loop)" block and the like. The control block 1005 includes at least a first upper connector 1010, a second upper connector 1015, a processor 1020, a ROM 1030, a RAM 1040 and a lower connector 1045.

FIG. 2-10 (a) shows the control block 1005 in FIG. 2-10 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 1060, and shows the first surface of the control block 1005. FIG. In the first plane, the first upper connector 1010 is closer to the left in the longitudinal direction, and the second upper connector 1015 is closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 1010 and the second upper connector 1015 are both centrally located in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 2-10 (a) and 2-10 (b) indicates the position of the first upper connector 1010 and the second upper connector 1015 in FIG. It corresponds that it corresponds by the longitudinal direction of the face of.

FIG. 2-10 (c) shows the control block 1005 in FIG. 2-10 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 1065, and shows the second surface of the control block 1005. In the second plane, the lower connector 1045 is located closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the second plane, the lower connector 1045 is centrally located in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 2-10 (b) and 2-10 (c) corresponds to the position of the lower connector 1045 in FIG. 2-10 (b) in the longitudinal direction of the second surface of the control block 1005. Indicates that.

FIG. 2-11 shows that one start block and three execution blocks are connected. The connector 320 of the start block 102 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the first execution block 105. The lower connector 535 of the first execution block 105 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the second execution block 110. The second execution block 110 and the third execution block 115 are similarly connected to one another using connectors.

The start block 102 can communicate with each block by connection of the first execution block 105, the second execution block 110, and the third execution block 115 to obtain at least the block identifier and position information of each block. . Thus, the start block 102 can update and / or create the block connection information table 430 as shown in FIG. The start block 102 specifies the content identifier corresponding to each block identifier based on the block connection information table 430 and the identifier correspondence information table 420. In addition, the start block 102 specifies content data corresponding to each content identifier based on the identifier correspondence information table 420 and the content table 410. Thus, the start block 102 identifies the connection order of execution blocks according to the position information and the content data associated with each execution block, and reproduces or executes the content data in the connection order (for example, the content data “ These data are reproduced or executed in the following order: AAA "," BBB "," CCC ".

FIG. 2-12 shows a state in which the fourth execution block 1105 is arranged to be shifted to the right with respect to the third execution block 115 in addition to the blocks shown in FIG. 2-11. In this case, neither the first connector 905 nor the second connector 910 of the fourth execution block 1105 is connected to the lower connector of the third execution block 115. Thus, in this embodiment, the start block 102 can not be connected to the fourth execution block 1105. It can control the connection by the physical location of the connectors of the execution block. More specifically, although the fourth execution block 1105 is arranged to be indented relative to the third execution block 115, since the connection of the fourth execution block 1105 is not recognized, the user can It can be recognized that the arrangement of the fourth execution block 1105 is incorrect. In other words, with regard to the arrangement of execution blocks, the user can know that the arrangement can not be performed with an indent. The user can use computer program syntax (e.g., how to use indents such as those used in computer programming language "Python") in the appearance of blocks and / or whether blocks can be connected (including physical and / or electrical connections) You can learn from the feel of the connection between blocks, etc. Therefore, you can intuitively learn programming in a block toy for children such as toddlers.

FIG. 2-13 shows an example using a function definition block and a function call (function call) block as control blocks. The connector 320 of the start block 102 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the second execution block 110. The lower connector 535 of the second execution block 110 is connected to the first upper block 1010 of the second control block (function call) 1005.

The start block and function definition block have connectors 1720 and connectors 1730 and 1740, respectively, as shown in FIG. 2-17. The function definition connector 1720 of the start block 102 is connected to the first function definition connector 1730 of the first control block (function definition) 1305. In another embodiment, the connector 1740 of the first control block (function definition) 1305 may be connected to the first function connector 1730 of another control block (function definition). This allows two or more functions to be defined. The lower connector 1045 of the first control block 1305 is connected to the second upper connector 910 of the first execution block 105. Thereby, the content of the first execution block 105 is defined as a function.

As a modification of FIG. 2-17, the connectors of the start block and the function definition block may have the same configuration. For example, the start block may have one or more upper connectors. In another embodiment, the lower connector of the function definition block may be located at the connector of the start block. That is, the lower connector of the function definition block may be configured to be closer to the left side in the longitudinal direction of the second surface, similarly to the start block. In another embodiment, the start block and the function definition block can have the same connector and internal configuration.

The start block 102 communicates with each block by connecting the first and second control blocks and the first and second execution blocks, and obtains at least the block identifier and the position information of each block from each block. it can. Thus, the block identifiers of the first control block (function definition), the second control block (function call), the first execution block and the second execution block are “0003” and “0006”, respectively. , “0101”, “0102”, the following block connection information table 430 can be updated and / or created. "2-" in position information "2-1" and "2-2" indicates that they are the same group of function definition blocks, and "-1" and "-2" indicate the connection order.

The start block 102 refers to the identifier correspondence information table 710 shown in FIG. 2-7 to make the first control block (block identifier: 0003), the second control block (block identifier: 0006), the first control block. The block types of the execution block (block identifier: 0101) and the second execution block (block identifier: 0102) are specified as “2”, “5”, “7” and “7”, respectively. That is, the first control block, the second control block, the first execution block and the second execution block are respectively specified as a function definition block, a block which calls a function (function call), an execution block and an execution block Be done. Furthermore, the content identifiers corresponding to the first execution block (block identifier: 0101) and the second execution block (block identifier: 0102) are “001” and “002”, respectively, based on the identifier correspondence information table 710. Identified as The start block 102 specifies content data (“AAA” and “BBB”) corresponding to the content identifiers “001” and “002” from the content table 410 shown in FIG.

The lower connector 535 of the first execution block 105 and the lower connector 1045 of the second control block 1005 function as a sensor that detects the end of processing (that is, the block is not connected to the block after itself). It is also good. When the execution block and control block detect that another connector is not connected to the lower connector of their own block, they can notify the start block 102 that the end of processing has been detected. Thus, the start block 102 specifies the end of the process.

Regarding the execution block to be controlled, for example, (1) when the control block is a function definition block, the content data of the execution block to be controlled is defined as a function, and (2) the control block is a conditional branch (branch) block In the case, the content data of the execution block to be controlled is reproduced or executed when the condition of the conditional branch (branch) is satisfied, and (3) when the control block is a loop block, the content data of the execution block to be controlled is predetermined Repeatedly playing or executing for several minutes.

The start block 102 specifies whether the block type of the second control block 1005 is “5” (function call (function call)). When the block type is “5”, reproduction or execution of content data defined as a function is performed as processing of a function call.

As described above, from the arrangement of blocks shown in FIG. 2-13, the start block 102 reproduces or executes content data in the following processing order.
(1) The content data "AAA" of the first execution block 105 connected to the first control block (function definition) 1005 is defined as a function (a first control block and a first execution block).
(2) Execute or reproduce the content data "BBB" of the second execution block 110.
(3) If the second control block 1305 is specified as a function call block, the content data “AAA” defined as a function is executed or reproduced.

In the present embodiment, the start block and the function definition block may be separately connected and arranged using wired or wireless. In this way, even when there are two or more function definition block groups, it is possible to add an indent described later in the function definition block group. In another embodiment, other function call (function call) blocks for calling other functions may be connected within the function definition block group. In another embodiment, the start block may be connected side by side with the function definition block. In this case, the longitudinal lengths of the start block and the function definition block in the first and second planes may be longer than the longitudinal lengths of the control block and the execution block other than the function definition block in the first and second planes. .

In another embodiment, one or more function definition blocks connected to the start block may be controlled to be executed or reproduced in parallel. Thereby, one or more contents data defined in the group of start blocks and one or more contents data defined in the group of one or more function definition blocks are executed or played in a superimposed manner. If the content is music, it will be possible to play songs, play with multiple instruments, compose music, etc. In another embodiment, the block control device may combine content data acquired based on the connection order of execution blocks to create new content.

In another embodiment, a function definition block called by a block of function calls may be defined by the setting block. When two or more functions are defined using two or more function definition blocks, the function definition block called by the function call (function call) can be changed using the setting block. In another embodiment, a function definition block may be called more than once by one or more function call blocks.

Referring to FIGS. 2-13, the lower connector 320 of the start block 102 is disposed longitudinally to the left of the second face of the block, but the lower connector 320 may be disposed to the right of the longitudinal direction. In another embodiment, the start block 102 is controlled by indenting the blocks connected to the lower connector 320 and the subsequent blocks with respect to the start block 102 and placing the non-operation block as the last block and returning the indent. The scope can be clarified.

Similarly, in the function definition block, the lower connector 1045 of the function definition block 1005 and the first execution block 105 are connected using the second upper connector 910 on the longitudinal right side of the execution block 105, but the longitudinal left side The connection can be made using the first upper connector 905. Thus, the function definition block 1005 can be clearly identified by controlling the function definition block 1005 by indenting the first execution block 105 and placing the non-operation block as the last block and returning the indent. can do. If the function definition block of FIG. 2-13 does not indent subsequent blocks, the lower connector 1045 may be disposed on the left side in the longitudinal direction.

FIG. 2-14 shows an example using a conditional branch (branch) block as a control block. The connector 320 of the start block 102 is connected to the first upper connector 1010 of the first control block 1005. The lower connector 1045 of the first control block 1005 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the first execution block 105. The lower block 535 of the first execution block 105 is connected to the second upper connector 910 of the second execution block 110. That is, in the execution block connected after the control block, when the second upper connector 910 is used for connection, the start block 102 (and / or the second execution block 110) It detects that the indent has been returned to the execution block 105 of 1. As a result, the first execution block 105 is indented relative to the first control block 1005, and the second execution block 110 is returned indented relative to the first execution block 105. Therefore, the user can understand how to define conditional branches using indents.

The start block 102 can communicate with each block by connecting the first control block and the first and second execution blocks, and can obtain at least the block identifier and position information of each block from each block. Thus, assuming that the block identifiers of the first control block (conditional branch (branch)), the first execution block, and the second execution block are "0005", "0101", and "0102", respectively, Block connection information table 430 can be updated and / or created.

The start block 102 specifies the block type of each block based on the identifier correspondence information table 710, and further, from the identifier correspondence information table 710 and the content table 410, the content identifiers "001" of the first and second execution blocks. And the content data ("AAA" and "BBB") corresponding to "002", respectively.

From the above arrangement of blocks shown in FIG. 2-14, the start block 102 reproduces or executes content data in the following processing order.
(1) When the condition of the conditional branch (branch) is satisfied (first control block), the content data of the first execution block 105 immediately above (before) the second execution block 105 that detects the end of the indent Execute or reproduce "AAA" (first execution block). As an example of the condition of the conditional branch (branch), the current time may be a predetermined time (12:00 to 15:00) or the like.
(2) Execute or reproduce the content data "BBB" of the second execution block 110.
Thereby, the content data "BBB" is always executed or reproduced, but the content data "AAA" is executed or reproduced only when the condition is satisfied.

FIG. 2-15 shows an example using a repetition (loop) block as a control block. The connector 320 of the start block 102 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the first execution block 105. The lower connector 535 of the first execution block 105 is connected to the first upper connector 1010 of the control block 1005. The lower connector 1045 of the control block 1005 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the second execution block 110. In the control block 1005, as described above, the lateral surface of the control block 1005 and the lateral surface of the setting block 1605 may be connected by a connector. Although the setting block 1605 will be described later, the setting block 1605 can supply the information used in the control block 1005 to the start block via the execution block and / or the control block 1005. Here, the information of the setting block 1605 may be defined as the number of times of looping when the control block 1005 is repeated (loop). When the loop is executed three times, the information in the setting block 1605 is “3”. In one embodiment, if the loop is run twice, the configuration block may be omitted. In this case, if omitted, the number of times of looping is treated as "2". The lower connector 535 of the second execution block 110 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the third execution block 115.

The start block 102 communicates with each block by the connection of the control block 1005, the setting block 1605, and the first, second and third execution blocks 105, 110, 115, and from each block the block identifier and position of each block At least information can be obtained. Thereby, the block identifiers of the control block (repeat (loop)) 1005, the control block (setting) 1605, the first execution block, the second execution block, and the third execution block are “0004” and “0007,” respectively. "," 0101 "," 0102 "," 0103 ", the following block connection information table 430 can be updated and / or created. The start block 102 may not detect that the control block (setting) 1605 is connected. In this case, the start block 102 can obtain at least the setting information of the control block (setting) 1605 through the control block (repeat (loop)) 1005.

The start block 102 specifies the content data "AAA", "BBB" and "CCC" of the first, second and third execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 respectively from the block identifier, and the second and third The execution block 110 or 115 is specified to be the control target of the control block (repeat (loop)) 1005. The start block 102 also receives setting information from the setting block 1605 or receives setting information acquired by the control block (repeat (loop)) 1005. Here, the setting information is assumed to be “3”.

As described above, from the arrangement of blocks shown in FIG. 2-15, the start block 102 reproduces or executes content data in the following processing order.
(1) Execute or reproduce the content data "AAA" of the first execution block 105 (2) Of the content data "BBB" of the second execution block 110 and the content data "CCC" of the third execution block 115 Repeat run or play 3 times. Thus, after the content data "AAA" is executed or reproduced once, the execution or reproduction of the content data "BBB" and "CCC" is repeated three times. When the content data is music, specific phrases “BBB” and “CCC” are repeatedly reproduced.

FIG. 2-16 shows an overview of the setting block. The setting block 1605 comprises a processor 1610, a ROM 1615, a RAM 1620 and a connector 1650. The RAM 1620 can be a storage medium. The RAM 1620 or the ROM 1615 can store, in addition to its own block identifier, information that the setting block itself has in advance. Thereby, the setting block can supply information to be set to the start block 102 when connected to another block. In another embodiment, the configuration block may include an input device that receives an input of the value of the variable from the user. The input device can be, for example, a dial input device that can be input by the user, one or more buttons, a touch panel input device, or the like. Thereby, the user can change the information of the setting block. The connector 1650 can be connected to the control block 1005 by at least one of an electrical connection, a magnetic connection, an optical connection, and a physical connection such as a switch. In another embodiment, the information set by the setting block may be defined by the direction in which the setting block is placed.

FIG. 2-18 shows an example using a repetition (loop) block and a conditional branch (branch) block as control blocks. The connector 320 of the start block 102 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the first execution block 105. The lower connector 535 of the first execution block 105 is connected to the first upper connector 1010 of the first control block (repeat (loop)) 1805.

The lower connector 1045 of the first control block 1805 is connected to the first upper connector 905 of the second execution block 110. As a result, the second execution block 110 is indented relative to the first control block 1805. In the first control block 1805, as described above, the lateral surface of the first control block 1805 and the lateral surface of the first setting block 1605 may be connected by a connector. In the present embodiment, the first setting block 1605 specifies that the number of loops is “3”. The lower connector 535 of the second execution block 110 is connected to the first upper connector 1010 of the second control block (first conditional branch (branch)) 1810.

The lower connector 1045 of the second control block (first conditional branch (branch)) 1810 is connected to the upper connector 905 of the third execution block 115. As a result, the third execution block 115 is indented relative to the second control block 1810. In the present embodiment, the condition of the first conditional branch (branch) of the second control block 1810 is that the number of loops is one. The condition that the number of loops is one may be set by the second setting block 1860. The lower connector 535 of the third execution block 115 is connected to the second upper connector 1015 of the third control block (second conditional branch (branch)) 1820. The third control block 1820 (and / or the start block 102) detects that the first upper connector 1010 is not connected to the upper block and the second upper connector 1015 is connected to the upper block. . That is, the third control block 1820 (block identifier “0008”) detects that the signal information is “1”. The start block 102 (and / or the third control block 1820) determines that the indent has been returned to the third execution block 115 which is the upper block in response to the detection. can do.

The lower connector 1045 of the third control block (second conditional branch (branch)) 1820 is connected to the upper connector 905 of the fourth execution block 1830. As a result, the fourth execution block 1830 is indented relative to the third control block 1820. In the present embodiment, the condition of the second conditional branch (branch) of the third control block 1820 is that the number of loops is two. The condition that the number of loops is two may be set by the third setting block 1865.

The lower connector 535 of the fourth execution block 1830 is connected to the second upper connector 910 of the fifth execution block 1840. The fifth execution block 1840 (and / or the start block 102) detects that the first upper connector 905 is not connected to the upper block and the second upper connector 910 is connected to the upper block. . That is, the fifth execution block 1840 (block identifier “0105”) detects that the signal information is “1”. The start block 102 (and / or the fifth execution block 1840) determines that the indent has been returned to the fourth execution block 1830 which is the upper block in response to the detection. can do.

The lower connector 535 of the fifth execution block 1840 is connected to the second upper connector 910 of the sixth execution block 1850. The sixth execution block 1850 (and / or the start block 102) detects that the first upper connector 905 is not connected to the upper block and the second upper connector 910 is connected to the upper block. . That is, the sixth execution block 1850 (block identifier “0106”) detects that the signal information is “1”. The start block 102 (and / or the sixth execution block 1850) determines that the indent is returned to the fifth execution block 1840 which is the upper block in response to the detection. can do.
As in each of the above embodiments, when both the execution block and the control block have connection information to the upper block of the first upper connector on the left side in the longitudinal direction as signal information, the signal information is connected in the first upper connector “0”, “1” when there is no connection. With this "signal information", each block other than the start block and / or the start block can recognize the indentation of the control range when the "signal information" is "0", and the "signal information" is "1". When you can recognize the return from the indent.

The start block 102 communicates with each block by connecting each execution block, each control block 1805, 1810, 1820 and setting block 1605, 1860, 1865, and obtains at least block identifier and position information of each block from each block. can do. As a result, the first control block (repeat (loop)) 1805, the first setting block 1605, the second setting block 1860, the third setting block 1865, the second control block (first conditional branch (branch )) 1810, third control block (second conditional branch (branch)) 1820, first execution block 105, second execution block 110, third execution block 115, fourth execution block 1830, fourth The block identifiers of the fifth execution block 1840 and the sixth execution block 1850 are “0004”, “0007”, “0009”, “0010”, “0005”, “0008”, “0101”, “0102”, respectively. , “0103”, “0104”, “0105”, “0106”, the following block connection information table It can be updated and / or created 30. The start block 102 may not detect that the first setting block 1605 is connected. In this case, the start block 102 can obtain at least the information (the number of loops is “3”) which the first setting block 1605 has via the first control block (repeat (loop)) 1805. When the second and third setting blocks 1860 and 1865 are used, the start block 102 may obtain setting block information via the control block corresponding to each setting block.

The start block 102 refers to the identifier correspondence information table 710 to specify the type of each connected block. Furthermore, for the execution block, the start block 102 refers to the content table 410 and specifies content data corresponding to each execution block. In the present embodiment, the content of the control block such as the number of loops in the control block and the condition of the conditional branch (branch) may be stored in the identifier correspondence information table 710 or the content table 410. In another embodiment, the content of the control block may be stored on the storage medium of each control block.

As described above, from the arrangement of blocks shown in FIG. 2-18, the start block 102 reproduces or executes content data in the following processing order.
(1) Execute or reproduce the content data "AAA" of the first execution block 105.
(2) Execution or reproduction is repeated three times for the second execution block 110 to the fifth execution block 1840.
In the following, "X" in (2-XY) indicates the number of loops.
(2-1-1) Perform (first time) execution or reproduction of the content data “BBB” of the second execution block 110.
(2-1-2) In the second control block 1810, the content data "CCC" of the third execution block 115 is executed or reproduced according to the fact that the number of loops is the first.
(2-1-3) In the third control block 1820, the content data of the fourth execution block 1830 is not set as an execution target in response to the first loop.
(2-1-4) Perform (first) execution or reproduction of the content data (eg, “EEE”) of the fifth execution block 1840.
(2-2-1) Perform (second) execution or reproduction of the content data “BBB” of the second execution block 110.
(2-2-2) In the second control block 1810, the content data of the third execution block 115 is not set as an execution target according to the fact that the number of times of looping is the second.
(2-2-3) In the third control block 1820, the content data (for example, "DDD") of the fourth execution block 1830 is executed or reproduced according to the fact that the number of loops is the second.
(2-2-4) The second execution or reproduction of the content data “EEE” of the fifth execution block 1840 is performed.
(2-3-1) Perform (third) execution or reproduction of the content data “BBB” of the second execution block 110.
(2-3-2) In the second control block 1810, the content data of the third execution block 115 is not set as an execution target according to the fact that the number of loops is the third.
(2-3-3) In the third control block 1820, the content data of the fourth execution block 1830 is not set as an execution target according to the fact that the number of loops is the third.
(2-3-4) The third execution or reproduction of the content data “EEE” of the fifth execution block 1840 is performed.
(3) The control of the loop relating to the first control block 1805 ends.
(4) Execute or reproduce the content data (for example, "FFF") of the sixth execution block 1850.

Although in the present example signal detection is used to describe the detection of indents, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that signal information may be used in other examples as well.

Example 4
(Dynamic change of content data assigned to block)
According to this embodiment, the content data assigned to the execution block (or the identifier of the execution block) can be dynamically changed. Thus, the present embodiment can play more flexibly by dynamically changing content data associated with blocks such as music, video, and control signals for controlling a robot, a drone, and the like. To provide a toy that is hard for the user to get bored with.

(1) Reassignment of content data For example, first, the phrases “AAA”, “BBB,“ CCC ”obtained by dividing the song“ A ”are assigned to the first block, the second block, and the third block, respectively. I suppose. The user arranges the block a plurality of times to reproduce the content data. In this case, if the user knows the correct phrase arrangement order (that is, the arrangement order of the blocks), the game is lost and the game becomes boring. In such a case, by reassigning a phrase that is part of the song "A" assigned to each block to a different execution block, the game can be enhanced to provide a more attractive toy. .

In the present embodiment, the execution of the reassignment is realized by providing the user with an actuatable reassignment button in the start block 102 or providing a circuit in the start block 102 with an instruction for reassignment from another device. Ru. Other devices can be connected by wire or wirelessly. In start block 102, when the reassignment button is pressed, or when start block 102 receives an instruction for reassignment from another device, reassignment is performed.

When the reassignment is executed, the correspondence between the content identifier of the content table 410 and the content data in the start block 102 shown in FIG. Thereby, reassignment of content data to each execution block can be realized. In another embodiment, reassignment is performed by referring to the content table 610 shown in FIG. 2-6 and replacing the correspondence between the content identifier and the content data for the content identifier corresponding to the same content group. May be In another embodiment, with regard to the identifier corresponding information table 420 shown in FIG. 2-4, or in the identifier corresponding information table 710 shown in FIG. 2-7, when the block type (block type: 7) is an execution block, Reassignment may be performed by exchanging the correspondence between the block identifier and the content identifier.

(2) Allocation of New Content The start block 102 specifies, in the identifier correspondence information table 420 or 710, a block identifier to which a content identifier is not allocated. The start block 102 assigns the content identifier of the new content to the identified block identifier.
Also, the start block 102 adds the content identifier and content data of the newly added content to the content table. In one embodiment, how to divide the content may be determined based on the number of block identifiers identified. If there is no block identifier to which a content identifier has not been assigned, the start block 102 assigns the content identifier of the new content to a predetermined block identifier to which the content identifier has already been assigned.

(3) Timing of content allocation When the power of the start block 102 is turned on, content is allocated.
· Allocate content when placement of each block is completed. For example, when the content is music, the content is allocated when the music is completed by the arrangement of blocks. In another embodiment, while the arrangement of each block is completed, the content may be allocated in accordance with the predetermined number of erroneous arrangements.
Assign content when a predetermined time has elapsed since the power is turned on (or after the previous content assignment is completed). This can increase the difficulty of arranging blocks.
When blocks other than the start block are connected to the start block 102, allocation of content data is performed on the connected blocks. In the present embodiment, execution or reproduction of content data may be performed each time a connection is made. Thereby, the user can recognize the content data assigned to the block. When the number of blocks is large, there may be blocks to which content data can not be allocated. In this case, in the block or start block 102 to which content data is not allocated, the user may be notified to the user that content can not be allocated to the block using an audio device or a display device (for example, beep sound etc.) .

In each of the above embodiments, the block to which content is assigned is only the execution block, but it may be all blocks including the control block. Thereby, the content data associated with the control block and the execution block can be changed. In this case, the content data associated with the block is stored in the content table 410 (or another table such as the identifier correspondence table 710) in association with the block identifier.

Example 5
(Modification of start block)
In each of the above embodiments, the start block 102 executes holding of each information table, control of each block, etc. This is an example, and a part of the start block 102 described above is one or one. It may be implemented in conjunction with two or more other devices. Other devices may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, and the like. Other devices can be connected to the start block 102 in a wired or wireless manner.
The start block 102 itself or a combination of the start block 102 and other devices may be referred to as a block controller. The block control device is an external server for controlling the block control device itself, wired or wireless, via the Internet, a program for controlling the execution block, the control block and the setting block, and content data to be assigned to the execution block. It may be obtained from the Some or all of the above-described tables may be included in one of the start block 102 and the other device. In another embodiment, instead of the start block 102, a block control device, which is a computer device such as a smartphone, a tablet, a notebook computer, a desktop personal computer, may realize the function performed by the start block 102. In another embodiment, the block controller may include an external server that supplies the start block 102 and / or the computer device with content data, various tables, and the like. In another embodiment, the block controller can communicate with other block controllers via a wired line or a wireless line. This allows each user of the block controller to compete, for example, who was able to quickly align the blocks.

In each of the above embodiments, the block control device comprising one or both of the start block and the other device can reproduce or execute the content using an output device suitable for the content. As one example, if the content is music, the output device is a speaker, if the content is a moving image, the output device is a display and / or a speaker, and if the content is a program, it may be a suitable device. The execution or reproduction of the content data collected (prepared) from each block by the block control device may be realized, for example, in the block control device, the start block and other blocks, or an external device such as a robot.

In each of the above embodiments, the connection of each block is connected by wire or wirelessly. In the wired case, the lower block connector and the second upper block connector of the first block respectively have a convex and a concave shape (or vice versa) so that one connector receives the other connector be able to. In the case of wireless communication, a wireless communication transceiver can be used instead of the connector of each block. Each block performs wireless communication using a wireless communication transceiver. The wireless communication transceiver is realized, for example, using an RFID tag / reader, a WIFI communication circuit, a Bluetooth communication circuit, a ZigBee communication circuit, and the like.

In another embodiment, the connection of each block may be a physical connection according to the shape of the block. The physical connection is realized, for example, by combining the convex or concave shape of one block with the concave or convex shape of the other block. As another example, physical connection is realized by magnetic force. For example, physical connection by magnetic force is realized by combining the south pole of the magnet of one block and the north pole of the magnet of the other block. If physical connections are used, the block controller may identify each block using optical recognition with an image sensor such as an infrared sensor or camera.

For example, the block control device includes an optically readable device such as an image sensor, and the optically readable device detects a symbol of each block and identifies a block identifier and arrangement of each block. In another embodiment, the block controller may identify each block using wireless communication technology. In this case, the block control device and each block are respectively a wireless communication receiver / reader (or reader / writer) and a wireless communication transmitter (or a wireless communication transmitter and a wireless communication receiver / reader (or reader / writer)) Have. For example, when the wireless communication technology is communication using RFID technology, each block has an RFID tag, and the block control device's RFID reader (or reader / writer) reads each RFID tag to block each block. Identify the identifier and placement.

In another embodiment, a physical connection may be realized by a board receiving each block. For example, the board is configured to accept two or more blocks. Each block comprises at least one of an electrically readable tag storing at least a block identifier, a magnetically readable tag, and an optically readable tag, and the board is an electrically readable device , Magnetically readable device, at least one of optically readable device. The board is configured to identify the block identifier and the arrangement of the received block using at least one of an electrical reader, a magnetic reader, and an optical reader.

Example 6
( Modification of each block)
Each block may include a display device such as electronic paper, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like. The display device can display the content or the mark representing the content associated with each block. For example, when the content is music, the display device may display a song title, the number of seconds of music included in the block, and the like.

In another embodiment, each block may comprise an output device including a display device. The output device may generate one or more of unevenness, vibration, sound, still image, moving image, odor, etc. associated with each block. This allows the user to identify each block by touch, hearing, sight, or smell. The block controller may assign and / or provide information output by the output device.

The block control device may be able to rewrite the block identifier of each block, or may create an identifier extended from the block identifier and store it in each block. This makes it possible to more easily cope with how to play blocks and expansion of game rules.

Example 7
(Modification of setting block)
The information that can be set in the setting block can be information that can be set with the number of loops, the condition of the IF statement, and the like as arguments as described in each embodiment. Also, the setting block may be able to set variables that can be used in the connected block group. Furthermore, information on an instruction for performing a predetermined process may be set as a variable. For example, the configuration block provides information about the variables to each block. In addition, the setting block may be able to set an instruction that executes a predetermined process such as a function when the value of the variable becomes a predetermined value in each block. The predetermined process may be, for example, stop of execution or reproduction of content, control of an output device of each block, or the like in addition to execution of a function.

Content data Content data may be operated by a computer program of a vehicle, a vehicle such as an airplane or a boat, a radio control toy of the vehicle, a robot, or a drone.

When the content data is music (sound), the content data may be data of a unit smaller than the phrase. For example, the unit of data can be time, bars, notes, etc.

Content data may be one or more characters in addition to computer programs, sounds, music, videos and the like. For example, if the execution blocks are correctly aligned, the block controller identifies words or sentences based on the characters associated with each execution block. For example, if the execution blocks are arranged in the correct order, the block control device outputs the correct word or sentence based on the video or audio.

Regarding the content group 610 of the content table shown in FIG. 2-6, the content data assigned to the execution block may be content data of different content groups. For example, five pieces of content data belonging to the content groups “A” and “B” may be assigned to five execution blocks, respectively. This complicates the combination of execution blocks and further improves the gameplay.

Each execution block may be assigned two or more pieces of content data. For example, even if the content data is a phrase of the same music, each execution block may be assigned two content data of male voice and female voice. For example, the execution block may be configured to accept the configuration block, and the configuration block may include a switch that switches one or both of the male voice and the female voice to be used. This enables switching of two contents data of male voice and female voice assigned to the execution block, and music is reproduced using one or both of male voice and female voice. In another embodiment, each execution block may have switching means for selecting one of two or more pieces of content data.

In each of the above embodiments, the number of upper or lower connectors of each block is described as one or two or more, but may be two or three or more, respectively.

In each of the above embodiments, the connector of each block is the center of the short side in a predetermined plane, but this is an example, and it may be in any direction.

In each of the above embodiments, the "no action" block may be omitted.

In another embodiment, such as in the third embodiment (example of applying indenting to blocks), the "no action" block may be used to return indenting (removing indenting). For example, if two or more indents are applied to a plurality of blocks, one "no action" block may be configured to return two or more indents. In this embodiment, the longitudinal length of the first and second faces of the "no motion" block may have a length sufficient to return two or more indents.

In the above embodiments, some or all of the elements described to be implemented in hardware can be implemented in software, and some elements described to be implemented in software It will be appreciated that some or all of the can be implemented in hardware.

The toy described above has been described as a toy for children and infants, but the toys may be for students in the 10-20 years, adults, and elderly people.

In the processing or processing order described above, in a certain processing, processing or processing order as long as there is no inconsistency in processing or processing order such as using data which should not be available in the processing, etc. Can be changed freely.

With regard to each of the embodiments described above, some or all of the embodiments may be combined and implemented as one embodiment.

Each embodiment described above is an illustration for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The present invention can be practiced in various forms without departing from the scope of the invention.

Third perspective
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a software building block in which software can be constructed by arranging a plurality of blocks, each of which is assigned a software element, in accordance with the respective positional relationships and arrangement order.

The term "software" as used herein includes computer programs and multimedia contents such as audio and video. In the case of a computer program, “software elements” correspond to various elements constituting the syntax of the programming language, and in the case of multimedia contents, a part of music or video.

BACKGROUND ART A toy is known which arranges blocks associated with content data or the like which is a part of content representing an operation such as a computer program or the like, and executes the content, displays or the like according to the connection order. Such toys are known as educational toys, educational toys and the like. However, in such a conventional toy, it is necessary to electrically connect the control unit and each block or blocks to each other in some form and to transmit and receive information by wire.
By exchanging information between the control unit and each block by wireless communication, it is considered that no signal line is required and the fun as a toy is also increased, but a new electronic circuit for that purpose is required. , The cost will rise.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a software building block capable of building software by wireless communication between a control unit and each block without requiring the construction of a new electronic circuit. I assume.

Means for Solving the Problems The present invention is a software construction block for constructing software by arranging a plurality of blocks to which a software element is allocated to each block consisting of a plurality of basic blocks in a predetermined positional relationship. ,
A passive transmitting / receiving element arranged in each of the plurality of basic blocks, wherein an ID for specifying each passive transmitting / receiving element is assigned, and the ID is sent back in response to a scan signal sent from an active transmitting / receiving element. Multiple passive transmit and receive elements,
An active transmitting and receiving element that transmits a scan signal to the plurality of passive transmitting and receiving elements and receives the ID returned from the passive transmitting and receiving elements;
A control unit connected to the active transmission / reception element and having a storage unit for storing information on the plurality of passive transmission / reception elements;
Equipped with
Each of the passive transmitting and receiving elements is provided with a movable part movable by human force or by magnetic attraction or repulsion from a magnet provided in another block, and the position after movement of the movable part Communication with the active transmission / reception element is interrupted or communication is enabled, and the control unit detects which passive transmission / reception means of the plurality of passive transmission / reception means are sending back an ID, The relative positional relationship of each block is determined based on the change.

The control unit may execute the software based on the positional relationship of each block determined when the execution instruction is issued.

Preferably, the information on the passive transmitting / receiving element includes information on where in the block the basic block is located and information on where in each block a magnet is provided.

Preferably, the information on the passive transmitting / receiving element includes information on which software element is allocated to which block of the plurality of blocks.

The movable portion is provided with a shield, and when the shield is at a position close to a specific part of the passive transmitting and receiving means, communication with the active transmitting and receiving means is interrupted, and the shielding is provided for the passive transmitting and receiving Communication with the active transmitting and receiving means is enabled when located away from a particular part of the means.

The relative positional relationship may include a shift of a fixed width of the block, and the shift of the fixed width may correspond to an indent when writing a computer program. it can.

The active transmitting and receiving means may be an RF reader and the passive transmitting and receiving element may be an RF tag.

The block arrangement according to the invention comprises a plurality of blocks provided with passive transceiving elements which are assigned an ID and which send back said ID in response to a scan signal;
An active transmit / receive element that transmits the scan signal to the passive transmit / receive element and receives the ID returned from the passive transmit / receive element;
Shielding means provided in each of the plurality of blocks, and blocking or releasing the communication between the passive transmitting / receiving element and the active transmitting / receiving element according to the position thereof;
A first magnet provided to the shielding means;
A second magnet provided in at least one of the plurality of blocks;
Equipped with
When the block provided with the second magnet is arranged adjacent to another block, the shielding means is moved by the magnetic interaction between the second magnet and the first magnet, and the shielding means is moved. Blocking or releasing the communication between the passive transmit / receive element and the active transmit / receive element;
Effect of the invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a software construction block capable of constructing software by performing wireless communication between a control unit and each block without requiring construction of a new electronic circuit.

Invention will EMBODIMENTS, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the software construction block of the present invention will be mainly described as applied to construction of a computer program. That is, the computer program is constructed by associating program elements (if sentence, for sentence, etc.) in writing a computer program with physical blocks, and arranging such blocks with human hands. It is to be noted that FIGS. 3-1 to 3-15 are shown as perspective views so that the shapes of parts constituting each block and the internal structure of each block after assembly can be visually understood.

In the present invention, near-field wireless communication is required between the control unit that controls the whole and each block, but in the present embodiment, RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) is used as a tool for near-field wireless communication. That is, an RF reader is used as an active transmitting and receiving element of the present invention, and an RF tag is used as a passive transmitting and receiving element. The RFID is composed of a plurality of RF tags and an RF reader, but the information is transmitted by short-distance wireless communication using electromagnetic waves between the RF tag in which the ID information is embedded and the RF reader to which the control unit is connected. To communicate. In this embodiment, a passive type, that is, an RF tag that does not require a battery is used. However, it is also possible to use an active RF tag that uses a battery as a passive transmitting / receiving element.

When the RF reader transmits a scan signal carrying the necessary information on an electromagnetic wave from the antenna, the antenna of the RF tag receives the scan signal. At that time, power is generated in the antenna of the RF tag, and the RF tag uses this power to operate the control circuit and memory to perform necessary processing, and put the data in the RF tag on the electromagnetic wave and return it to the RF reader. Do. In this embodiment, a unique ID is assigned to each RF tag, and only this ID is sent back to the RF reader. The RF reader receives the electromagnetic wave at the antenna and extracts the data. As described above, since the passive (passive) RF tags operate by receiving power supply from the RF reader, each RF tag does not need to have a power supply. Generally, RFID communication is susceptible to metal, and if there is metal nearby, there is a characteristic that data can not be transmitted or received. The present invention exploits these characteristics of RFID.

1. Basic Block (1) Basic Block of Long-side Direction Movement Type FIG. 3-1 is a perspective view showing the respective components of the long-side direction movement type basic block 10 side by side. As shown in the figure, the basic block 10 comprises an RF tag 11, a housing 12, a movable plate 13, and auxiliary parts 14 and 15. The upper portion of the housing 12 is open, and the overall rectangular parallelepiped basic block 10 is assembled by housing the other components in a predetermined procedure.

The RF tag 11 has a size of 47.5 mm × 13.4 mm as an example, and has a protrusion 11 a of an IC chip at the center. The housing 12 is sized so that the RF tag 11 can be accommodated in the bottom of the housing 12 without gaps including the movable range of the movable plate 13. A small recess 12a is formed in the upper part of the left long side of the housing 12, and a permanent magnet is accommodated therein and fixed by an adhesive or the like. As a permanent magnet, for example, a neodymium magnet with strong magnetic force can be used, but other types of permanent magnets can be used, and an electromagnet can be used instead of the permanent magnet. The position of the recess 12a is determined taking into consideration that the permanent magnet accommodated in the recess of the movable plate in the other block and the magnet accommodated in the recess 12a are well matched when the other block is arranged next to Be In the present embodiment, although the attraction force between the magnets is used, it is also possible to move the movable plate using the repulsive force between the magnets.

A sheet (not shown) of aluminum having a thickness of about 0.1 mm is attached to the entire back surface of the movable plate 13. The sheet of aluminum artificially interferes with the communication between the RF tag 11 and the RF reader (not shown) due to the shielding effect. However, any material having a shielding effect can be used instead of aluminum. For example, shield paint, shield cloth, or a mesh metal fine enough in view of the wavelength to be used may be used.

The two short sides of the movable plate 13 are formed with projections 13a and 13b having inclined surfaces at an angle. A small recess 13c is formed on the right long side of the movable plate 13, and a permanent magnet is accommodated therein and fixed by an adhesive or the like. A recess 13 d is formed at the bottom of the movable plate 13. Each of the two auxiliary parts 14 and 15 is formed with a projection 14a or 15a having a slope that is complementary to the slope of the projection 13a or 13b. The angles of the slopes of the projections 13a, 13b and the auxiliary parts 14, 15 allow the movable plate 13 to slide smoothly upward obliquely by the magnets in the other blocks arranged next to each other, and move when the other blocks are separated. It is determined in consideration of the fact that the plate 13 slides and falls smoothly under its own weight. For example, the angle of the slopes of the projections 13a and 13b may be 120 degrees, and the angle of the slopes of the auxiliary component may be 60 degrees. However, it is obvious that this angle is an example and other angles may be used. The protrusions 13a and 13b may not necessarily have a slope, and may be formed, for example, as a cylindrical protrusion.

3-2 shows the basic block 10 in a state where the respective parts shown in FIG. 3-1 are assembled, (a) is a plan view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a perspective view. . At the time of assembly, the RF tag 11 is first placed on the bottom of the housing 12 and fixed. Subsequently, the auxiliary parts 14 and 15 are disposed and fixed to the short sides of the housing 12 so that the projections 14a and 15a face each other. Finally, the movable plate 13 is placed between the auxiliary parts 14 and 15. The movable plate 13 is not fixed.

At this time, the slopes of the protrusions 13 a and 13 b of the movable plate 13 are in contact with the lower slope of the protrusion 14 a of the auxiliary component 14 and the lower slope of the protrusion 15 a of the auxiliary component 15. Further, the protrusion 11 a of the IC chip is accommodated in the recess 13 d of the bottom of the movable plate 13.

In the state shown in FIG. 3B, the movable plate 13 is at the lowermost portion in the housing 12, and the aluminum sheet on the back surface of the movable plate 13 is in contact with and covers the RF tag 11. In this state, the electromagnetic wave from the RF reader is blocked by the shielding effect of the aluminum sheet, and the communication between the RF reader and the RF tag 11 is interrupted, and the RF reader can not recognize the presence of the RF tag 11. If the movable plate 13 does not have the recess 13d, the adhesion between the aluminum sheet on the back surface of the movable plate 13 and the RF tag 11 is impeded by the protrusion 11a of the IC chip, and the shielding effect is reduced. By providing the recess 13 d in the movable plate 13, the aluminum sheet and the RF tag 11 are more closely attached, and the shielding effect is sufficiently exhibited. The recess of the movable plate in the basic block described below has the same effect.

3-3 shows a state in which the left long side of another basic block 20 of the same kind is arranged so as to be aligned with the right long side of the basic block 10 shown in FIG. (A) is a plan view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a perspective view. When another basic block 20 is arranged on the right side of the basic block 10 as shown in FIG. 3C, the permanent block provided in the recess 12a provided on the upper side of the long side on the left side of the basic block 20. The magnet and the permanent magnet provided in the concave portion 13c on the long side on the right side of the movable plate 13 in the basic block 10 draw each other, and the entire movable plate 13 is drawn to the right.

At this time, the movable plate 13 slides along the slopes of the projection 14a and the projection 15a which the slopes of the projections 13a and 13b contact and moves to the upper right, and the movable plate 13 is the inside of the basic block 10 and the aluminum sheet on the back surface is RF. It is separated from the tag 11. At this time, the RF reader and the RF tag 11 are in a communicable state (on state), and the RF reader recognizes the presence of the RF tag 11.

When the basic block 20 is pulled away from the basic block 10 to a distance where the attraction between the permanent magnets does not work from the state shown in FIG. 3-3, the movable plate 13 in the basic block 10 follows the slopes of the protrusions 14a and 15a by its own weight. Slip to the lower left. Then, the sheet of aluminum on the back surface of the movable plate 13 covers the RF tag 11, and the electromagnetic wave from the RF reader is blocked by the aluminum sheet and the communication is interrupted (off state). You can not recognize your existence. As can be understood from the above description, the movable plate 13 moves toward the two long sides of the basic block 10 inside the basic block 10.

In the present embodiment, an aluminum sheet for shielding is attached to the movable plate 13 to cover the RF tag 11 disposed at the bottom, but, conversely, the RF tag 11 is attached to the movable plate 13 for shielding It is also possible to arrange the metal for the bottom and cover it with the RF tag 11 attached to the movable plate 13.

Further, in the present embodiment, the movable plate 13 is configured to slide along the slopes of the projections 14a and the projections 15a which the slopes of the projections 13a and 13b contact and move to the upper right when the attraction force of the permanent magnet works. In another embodiment, for example, the RF tag 11 is disposed at the top of the housing 12 rather than at the bottom, and the movable plate is weakly biased upward by a spring provided thereunder under normal conditions. In the off state, but it is also possible to configure the movable plate 13 to be in the on state by sliding the slope of the projection obliquely downward against the biasing force of the spring by the action of the magnetic attraction force. It is possible.

(2) Basic Block of Short-side Direction Movement Type FIG. 3-4 is a perspective view showing the respective components of the short-side direction movement type basic block 30 side by side. As shown in the figure, the basic block 30 comprises an RF tag 31, a housing 32 and a movable plate 33. The upper portion of the housing 12 is open, and by housing the other components in a predetermined procedure, a generally rectangular basic block 30 is assembled.

The RF tag 31 can be the same as that of the long side movement type. The housing 32 is sized to be able to accommodate the RF tag 31 without clearance, including the movable range of the movable plate 33 at the bottom thereof. A small recess 32c is formed in the upper part of the left short side of the housing 32, and a permanent magnet is accommodated therein and fixed by an adhesive or the like. On the inside of the two long sides of the housing 32, protrusions 32a and 32b having slopes at an angle (for example, 60 degrees) are formed.

A sheet (not shown) of aluminum having a thickness of about 0.1 mm is attached to the entire back surface of the movable plate 33. The sheet of aluminum artificially prevents communication between the RF tag 31 and the RF reader (not shown). On two long sides of the movable plate 33, protrusions 33a and 33b having slopes of an angle (for example, 120 degrees) complementary to the slopes of the protrusions 32a and 32b are formed. A small recess 33c is formed on the right short side of the movable plate 33, and a permanent magnet is accommodated therein and fixed by an adhesive or the like. A recess 33 d is formed at the bottom of the movable plate 33.

3-5 show the basic block 30 in a state where the respective parts shown in FIG. 3-4 are assembled, wherein (a) is a plan view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a perspective view. . At the time of assembly, the RF tag 31 is first disposed at the bottom of the housing 32 and fixed. Subsequently, the movable plate 33 is disposed on the RF tag 31. The movable plate 33 is not fixed. At this time, the slopes of the projections 33a and 33b of the movable plate 33 are in contact with the lower slopes of the projections 32a and 32b of the housing 32, respectively. Further, the protrusion 31 a of the IC chip is accommodated in the recess 33 d of the bottom of the movable plate 33.

In the state shown in FIG. 3-5, the movable plate 33 is at the lowermost part in the housing 32, and the aluminum sheet on the back surface of the movable plate 33 is in contact with the RF tag 31 and covers it. In this state, the electromagnetic wave from the RF reader is blocked by the aluminum sheet, the communication between the RF reader and the RF tag 31 is interrupted, and the RF reader can not recognize the presence of the RF tag 31.

3-6 show a state in which the short side of another basic block 40 of the same kind is arranged to align with the short side on the right side of the basic block 30 shown in FIG. ) Is a plan view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a perspective view. When another basic block 40 of the same kind is aligned and disposed on the right side of the basic block 30 as shown in FIG. 3-6 (c), the permanent magnet provided on the upper side of the short side on the left side of the basic block 40 The permanent magnet provided on the short side on the right side of the movable plate 33 in the block 30 attracts each other, and the entire movable plate 33 is drawn to the right. At this time, the movable plate 33 moves to the upper right along the slopes of the projections 32a and 32b with which the slopes of the projections 33a and 33b are in contact, and the aluminum sheet on the back surface is separated from the RF tag 31. At this time, the shield by the sheet of aluminum is released from the RF reader and the RF tag 31 to be in a communicable state (on state), and the RF reader recognizes the presence of the RF tag 31.

When the basic block 40 is pulled away from the basic block 30 to the distance where the attraction between the permanent magnets does not work from the state shown in FIG. 3-6, the movable plate 33 in the basic block 30 follows the slopes of the protrusions 32a and 32b by its own weight. Slip to the lower left. Then, the sheet of aluminum on the back surface of the movable plate 33 covers the RF tag 31, and the electromagnetic wave from the RF reader is blocked by the aluminum sheet and the communication is interrupted (off state). Can not recognize. As can be understood from the above description, the movable plate 33 moves in the direction toward the two short sides of the basic block 30 inside the basic block 30.

(3) Push-down Basic Block FIG. 3-7 is a perspective view showing the components of the push-down basic block 50 side by side. As shown in the figure, the basic block 50 includes an RF tag 51, a housing 52, a flexible plate 53, and a movable plate 54. By housing the other components from the top of the housing 52 in a predetermined procedure, a generally rectangular basic block 50 is assembled.

As the RF tag 51, the same one as the long side direction moving type and the short side direction moving type can be used. The housing 52 is dimensioned to be able to accommodate the flexible plate 53 at its bottom without any gap. At the inner four corners of the housing 52, protrusions for mounting the flexible plate 53 are formed. An opening 53 a for connecting to the movable plate 54 is provided at the center of the flexible plate 53.

A sheet (not shown) of aluminum having a thickness of about 0.1 mm is attached to the entire back surface of the movable plate 54. The sheet of aluminum artificially prevents communication between the RF tag 51 and the RF reader (not shown). At a central portion of the movable plate 54, a protrusion 54a for connecting to the opening 53a at the central portion of the flexible plate 53 is provided. A recess 54 b is formed at the bottom of the movable plate 54.

3-8 show the basic block 50 in a state where the respective parts shown in FIG. 3-7 are assembled, (a) is a plan view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a perspective view . At the time of assembly, first, the RF tag 51 is placed and fixed to the bottom of the housing 52 which is open at the top. Subsequently, the protrusion 54a of the movable plate 54 is fitted into the opening 53a of the flexible plate 53 to connect them. Then, the flexible plates 53 to which the movable plate 54 is connected are placed on the protrusions formed at the four inner corners of the housing 52 and accommodated in the housing 52.

In the state shown in FIG. 3-8, the movable plate 53 is separated from the RF tag 51, the RF reader and the RF tag 51 are in a communicable state (on state), and the RF reader is in the presence of the RF tag 51. Can be recognized.

From the state shown in FIG. 3-8, when a human manually presses the button at the central portion of the flexible plate 53 as shown in FIG. 3-9, the flexible plate 53 is curved to depress the central portion, and the flexible plate 53 is flexible. The movable plate 54 connected to the plate 53 moves downward. When the movable plate 54 moves to the lowermost portion, the aluminum sheet on the back surface of the movable plate 54 adheres to the RF tag 51, and the protrusion 51a of the IC chip is accommodated in the concave portion 54b at the bottom of the movable plate 54. In this state, the electromagnetic wave from the RF reader is blocked by the aluminum sheet, and the communication between the RF reader and the RF tag 51 is cut off (off state), and the RF reader can not recognize the presence of the RF tag 51.

When the hand holding down the flexible plate 53 is released from the state shown in FIG. 3-9, the flexible plate 53 returns from the curved state to the original state shown in FIG. 3-8. As a result, the movable plate 54 is separated from the RF tag 51, and the RF reader and the RF tag 51 can communicate again (on state), so that the RF reader can recognize the presence of the RF tag 51. Become.

The depression type basic block 50 can be used by a person to confirm what program element is assigned to the practical block described later in which it is incorporated. For example, if an assigned program element is a control block representing repetition, and an argument block representing "3" is connected thereto, when a person presses a button of the control block, for example, Repeat 3 times. " The voice data is stored in the control unit, and the voice data is reproduced by recognizing which basic block is pressed by the control unit by its ID. This makes it possible to confirm what program element is assigned to each practical block.

2. Structure of Practical Block The three types of basic blocks described above are combined to form various practical blocks to be actually used. In this embodiment, three types of execution block 100, control block 200, and argument block 300 are prepared as practical blocks. The structure of each practical block will be described below.

(1) Execution block FIG. 3-10 is a perspective view showing each component constituting the execution block 100 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3-10, the execution block 100 includes, from the right, a housing 101, a ceiling plate 102, a third floor plate 103, a second floor plate 104, a part 105 for a push-down block, and three long side moving blocks The plate 106 is composed of three sets (a total of six pieces) of the long-side direction moving auxiliary parts 107.

FIG. 3-11 shows a state in which the execution block 100 is assembled from the components shown in FIG. 3-10, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is viewed from the short side and the long side A side view and (c) are perspective views. The execution block 100 has a total of three layers, and the plurality of basic blocks described above are arranged at predetermined positions in the hierarchy.

Specifically, the basic block 110 of the long side direction moving type is disposed on the left side in one hierarchy. Although the basic block 110 is normally in the off state, when another block is placed on the near side, the moving plate in the middle is attracted by the permanent magnet of this other block to move forward and upward to turn on. It becomes a state. No basic block is provided on the right side of the first hierarchy.

In the second hierarchy, basic blocks 120 and 130 of the long side movement type are arranged on the right side and the left side, respectively. The basic blocks 120 and 130 are normally in the off state, but when another block is placed on the back side, the moving plate inside is attracted to the permanent magnet of this other block and moves toward the back side and upwards Turn on. A pushdown type basic block 140 is disposed on the left side in the third hierarchy. Basic blocks are not arranged on the right side of the third hierarchy.

As shown in FIG. 3-11, concave portions are provided at three lower portions of the front side surface of the housing 101 and three lower portions of the rear side surface (not visible in the drawing), and among these, practical blocks Permanent magnets are arranged for mutual attraction and positioning.

(2) Control Block FIG. 3-12 is a perspective view showing each component constituting the control block 200 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3-12, the control block 200 includes, from the right, a housing 201, a ceiling plate 202, a third floor plate 203, a second floor plate 204, a part 205 for a push-down block, and three long-side moving blocks. A plate 206, three sets (total of six pieces) of long-side direction moving auxiliary parts 207, and one short-side direction moving plate 208 are provided.

3-13 shows the control block 200 assembled from the components shown in FIG. 3-12, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a view from the short side and the long side. A side view and (c) are perspective views. The control block 200 has a total of three layers, and the plurality of basic blocks described above are arranged at predetermined positions in the hierarchy.

Specifically, the basic block 210 of the long side direction moving type is disposed on the right side in one hierarchy. Although the basic block 210 is normally in the off state, when the permanent magnet of another block is placed on the near side, the moving plate in the middle is attracted by the permanent magnet of this other block to move forward and upward. Turn on. Basic blocks are not arranged on the left side of one hierarchy.

In the second hierarchy, long-side movement type basic blocks 220 and 230 are disposed on both the right side and the left side. The basic blocks 220 and 230 are normally in the off state, but when the permanent magnet of another block is placed on the back side, the moving plate inside is attracted to the permanent magnet of this other block to go to the back side and upwards Move to the on state.

In the third hierarchy, a basic block 240 of push-down type is disposed on the left side, and a basic block 250 of short-side direction movement type is disposed on the right side. Although the basic block 250 is normally in the off state, when another block is disposed on the short side on the right side, the moving plate in the middle is attracted to the permanent magnet of this other block and moves to the right and upward , Turns on.

As shown in FIG. 3-13, recesses are provided at three lower portions of the surface on the front side of the housing 101 and at three lower portions of the surface on the back side, which are not shown in FIG. Two recessed portions are provided at the center of the right side surface of the -13 (c), and permanent magnets for attracting and positioning the practical blocks are disposed in these.

(3) Argument Block FIG. 3-14 is a perspective view showing each component constituting the argument block 300 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3-14, the argument block 300 includes, from the right, a housing 301, a ceiling plate 302, a third floor plate 303, a flexible plate 304 for a depression block, movable plates and buttons 305 of a depression basic block, It comprises a moving plate of a basic block of the short side direction moving type and its rotation stopper 306. Note that the housing 301 is sized approximately half the length of the housing of the execution block 100 and the control block 200.

FIG. 3-15 shows a state in which the argument block 300 is assembled from the components shown in FIG. 3-14, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a view from the short side and the long side A side view and (c) are perspective views. The argument block 300 has a total of three layers, and the plurality of basic blocks described above are arranged at predetermined positions in the hierarchy.

Specifically, the basic block 310 of the short side direction moving type is disposed in one layer. Although the basic block 310 is normally in the off state, when the permanent magnet of another block is disposed on the short side on the left side, the moving plate in the middle is attracted to the permanent magnet of this other block and is leftward and upward Move to the on state. Although the basic block is not disposed in the second hierarchy, a rotation stopper 306 is provided to prevent the rotation of the moving plate. A push-down basic block 320 is disposed in the third hierarchy.

As shown in FIG. 3-15, recesses are provided at two places in the center of the right side surface of the housing 301, and in these, permanent magnets for attracting and positioning the practical blocks are arranged.

3. Operation and Usage of Practical Blocks Subsequently, the operation and usage of each practical block will be described. Each practical block is configured by three-dimensionally combining various basic blocks as described above. Therefore, each practical block includes two or more RF tags. Apart from the practical blocks, as an example, a flat plate of dimensions 50 cm × 100 cm is prepared, and software is constructed by sequentially arranging the practical blocks on this. In this embodiment, the antenna of the RF reader and the transmission / reception control unit are embedded in the entire surface of the plate, and near field communication with the RF tag in the practical block disposed on the plate is performed. In this embodiment, although the method of reading the information of all the RF tags on the plate through the antenna disposed on the entire surface in the plate is employed, the RF reader may be disposed not in the plate but in another nearby location. . As another method, any method may be used as long as information of the target RF tag can be read by arranging a plurality of antennas, arranging a plurality of RF readers, or the like.

A control unit such as a personal computer is connected to the RF reader. Information on all RF tags in all practical blocks is stored in a storage unit (for example, a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc.) in the control unit. Specifically, ID information that identifies each RF tag, information on which practical block each RF tag is included in, and where in the particular practical block the RF tag is located Contains information about These pieces of information may be stored as one large table, or may be separately stored in a plurality of tables each having related information.

In this way, the RF tag included in the block sends back only its own ID information, and the control unit that received it sends a flexible system configuration by performing all necessary processing in software. Is possible. In addition, software elements to be allocated to each block can be easily changed.

FIG. 3-16 is a virtual practical block 500 viewed from the top as shown in FIG. 3-11 (a), FIG. 3-13 (a) and FIG. 3-15 (a), and arranged adjacent to this It shows the positional relationship with other blocks that can be As shown in FIG. 3-16, in the practical block 500, other practical blocks may be arranged adjacent to the upper left, upper right, lower left, lower right, horizontal left and horizontal right. The control unit monitors the communication between the RF tag and the RF reader in the practical block, and accesses various data stored in the control unit, as described below, the positions of the respective practical blocks. Understand the relationship.

FIG. 3-17 is a table showing symbols indicating various RF tags used in the following and their roles. "C" refers to the RF tag included in the depression-type basic block. This RF tag stores the representative ID of the practical block in which it is included. The depression type basic block is normally in the on state, and is turned off only when a person manually presses the button of the flexible plate.

“U1” is an RF tag included in the basic block of the long side movement type, and turns on when another block is placed adjacent to the upper left of the practical block to detect this. "U2" is an RF tag included in the basic block of the long side movement type, and turns on when another block is placed adjacent to the upper right of the practical block to detect this. “D1” is an RF tag included in the basic block of the long side movement type, and turns on when another block is placed adjacent to the lower left of the practical block to detect this. “D2” is an RF tag included in the basic block of the long side movement type, and turns on when another block is placed adjacent to the lower right of the practical block to detect this. “SL” is an RF tag included in the basic block of the short side movement type, and turns on when another block is adjacently arranged on the left side of the practical block to detect it. "SR" is an RF tag included in the basic block of the short side movement type, and turns on when another block is arranged adjacent to the lateral right of the practical block to detect it.

FIG. 3-18 (a) shows the execution block 100 shown in FIG. 3-10 and FIG. 3-11 and an element for determining on / off of each RF tag contained therein (a permanent magnet of movable plate or a movable plate FIG. 3-18 (b) is a plan view schematically showing the position of the push button of the flexible plate, and FIG. 3-18 (b) shows where each RF tag is disposed in the execution block 100, and the on / off state. It is a table showing the conditions which become. The actual position of the basic block in which each RF tag is included has already been described in connection with FIG. 3-11.

FIG. 3-19 (a) shows the control block 200 shown in FIG. 3-12 and FIG. 3-13, and the element which determines on / off of each RF tag contained therein (a permanent magnet or movable plate of a movable plate). FIG. 3-19 is a plan view schematically showing the position of the push button of the flexible plate, and FIG. 3-19 (b) shows the position where each RF tag is disposed in the control block 200, the on state and the off state It is a table showing the conditions which become. The actual location of the basic block in which each RF tag is included has already been described in connection with FIGS. 3-13.

FIGS. 3-20 (a) show an argument block 300 shown in FIGS. 3-14 and 3-15, and an element (on a movable plate or a flexible plate) for determining on / off of each RF tag contained therein. FIG. 3-20 is a plan view schematically showing the position of the push button, and FIG. 3-20 (b) is a position where each RF tag is disposed in the argument block 300, and a condition to be in the on / off state. Is a table showing The actual location of the basic block in which each RF tag is included has already been described in connection with FIGS. 3-15.

Subsequently, how the control unit grasps the positional relationship of each block when arranging a plurality of practical blocks will be described with reference to an actual example. The control unit continuously scans all the RF tags in the communicable range by the RF reader to obtain on / off information of each RF tag. The control unit detects arrangement information of each block from temporal change of the on / off information. In the present embodiment, three types of practical blocks, that is, a control block, an execution block, and an argument block, are used. However, if there are these three types of practical blocks, minimum programming is possible.

FIG. 3-21 shows an initial state in which the control block 600, the first execution block 610, the second execution block 620, and the argument block 630 are placed apart from one another. This is called "state 1". FIG. 3-22 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the previous state in each block at this time. This table shows that only the "C" RF tags of all blocks (RF tags included in the basic block of depression type) are in the on state, and all other RF tags are in the off state.

FIG. 3-23 shows “state 2” in which the argument block 630 is disposed adjacent to the right of the control block 600 from the state 1 shown in FIG. 3-21. At this time, the RF tag “SR” included in the control block 600 and the RF tag “SL” included in the argument block 630 are turned on, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-24 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state in each block and the state 1 immediately before. Here, since the RF tag “SR” of the control block 600 is turned on, it can be understood that any block is disposed adjacent to the right side, and the RF tag “SL” of the argument block 630 is turned on. From this, it can be understood that some blocks are arranged adjacent to the left side. When the two changes are simultaneously detected, the control unit determines that the control block 600 and the argument block 630 are arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction (horizontal direction).

Here, "simultaneous detection" does not necessarily mean that detection is performed in the same scan. The RF tag "SR" included in the control block 600 and the RF tag "SL" included in the argument block 630 may not be turned on at exactly the same time due to the difference in the weight of the movable plate inside and the magnetic force of the permanent magnet. It is from. Actually, the RF tag “SR” included in the control block 600 and the RF tag “SL” included in the argument block 630 within a certain time width in which a person can not change the block sequence continuously Is set to be considered as "simultaneously detected" by software on the side of the control unit. The same applies to the case where "simultaneous detection" is said below.

FIG. 3-25 shows “state 3” in which the execution block 610 is disposed adjacent to the lower right of the control block 600 from the state 2 shown in FIG. 3-23. At this time, the RF tag “D2” included in the control block 600 and the RF tag “U1” included in the execution block 610 are turned on, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-26 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state in each block and the state 2 immediately before. Here, since the RF tag “U1” of the execution block 610 is turned on, it is known that some block is disposed adjacent to the upper left thereof, and the RF tag “D2” of the control block 600 is turned on. From the fact that it has become clear, it can be understood that some blocks are arranged adjacent to the lower right. Since the two changes are simultaneously detected, the control unit determines that the execution block 610 is arranged adjacent to the right under the control block 600 with a predetermined width offset. The deviation of the fixed width corresponds to the indent when writing a computer program.

FIG. 3-27 shows the “state 4” in which the second execution block 620 is arranged in line below the first execution block 610 from the state 3 shown in FIG. 3-25. At this time, the RF tag “D1” included in the execution block 610 and the RF tag “U1” included in the execution block 620 are turned on, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-28 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the previous state 3 in each block at this time. Here, since the RF tag “D1” of the execution block 610 is turned on, it is known that some block is arranged adjacent to the lower left thereof, and the RF tag “U1” of the execution block 620 is turned on. From the fact that it has become clear, it can be understood that some blocks are arranged adjacent to the upper left. Since the two changes are simultaneously detected, the control unit determines that the second execution block 620 is aligned and adjacent to the right of the first execution block 610.

FIG. 3-29 shows “state 5” in which the second execution block 620 is separated from the first execution block 610 from the state 4 shown in FIG. 3-27. At this time, both the RF tag “D1” included in the execution block 610 and the RF tag “U1” included in the execution block 620 are turned off, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-30 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 4 in each block at this time. Here, since the RF tag “D1” of the execution block 610 is turned off, it can be understood that the adjacent state of the block arranged therebelow is released, and the RF tag “U1 of the execution block 620 Since it is in the off state, it can be understood that the adjacency state of any block placed thereon is released. Since the two changes are simultaneously detected, the control unit determines that the second execution block 620 is separated from the first execution block 610.

FIG. 3-31 shows “state 6” in which the second execution block 620 is disposed below the first execution block 610 and shifted to the left from the state 5 shown in FIG. 3-29 by a constant width. At this time, the RF tag “D1” included in the execution block 610 and the RF tag “U2” included in the execution block 620 are both turned on, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-32 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 5 in each block at this time. Here, since the RF tag “D1” of the execution block 610 is turned on, it is known that some block is arranged adjacent to the lower left thereof, and the RF tag “U2” of the execution block 620 is turned on. From the fact that it has become clear, it can be understood that some blocks are arranged adjacent to the upper right. Since the two changes are simultaneously detected, the control unit determines that the second execution block 620 is disposed adjacent to the lower side of the first execution block 610 with a predetermined width shifted to the left.

FIG. 3-33 shows the “state 7” in which the push-down basic block button of the first execution block 610 is pressed from the state 6 shown in FIG. 3-31. At this time, the RF tag "C" included in the execution block 610 is turned off, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-34 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the state 6 immediately before in each block at this time. Here, since the RF tag “C” of the execution block 610 is turned off, the control unit determines that the button of the basic block of the depression type of the first execution block 610 is pressed.

FIG. 3-35 shows the “state 8” in which the depression of the push-down type basic block of the first execution block 610 is released from the state 7 shown in FIG. 3-33. At this time, the RF tag "C" included in the execution block 610 is turned on again, and the RF reader detects this. FIG. 3-36 is a table showing the difference (difference) between the tag in the on state and the immediately preceding state 7 in each block at this time. Here, since the RF tag “C” of the execution block 610 is turned on, the control unit determines that the depression of the button of the depression type basic block of the first execution block 610 is released.

4. Software Construction Up to this point, three types of execution block 100, control block 200, and argument block 300 have been described, but other types of blocks may be prepared. Placing the argument block 630 on the right side of the control block 600 as shown in FIG. 3-23 is similar to the construction of a statement in an actual programming language, and as shown in FIG. 3-25, the execution block Shifting 610 to the right is also the same as indenting in the actual programming language. Therefore, a computer program can be constructed by arranging a plurality of blocks corresponding to the elements of such computer program language in order adjacently on a plate provided with an RF reader.

Since the computer program can be constructed with a sense of play while actually touching and arranging physical blocks with hands as in this embodiment, instead of writing a computer program using a keyboard and a mouse on a computer screen, keyboard operation It is assumed that it is used for computer program education for children who are not good at mouse operation.

So far, although the software construction block according to the present invention has been described as an example of constructing a computer program, it can be applied to multimedia contents such as music, still pictures and moving pictures. Specifically, for example, music, still pictures, and moving pictures are appropriately divided into a plurality of elements, and each divided element is associated with a block. Then, a game is assumed in which music, still pictures, and moving pictures are correctly reproduced by arranging these blocks correctly.

Industrial Applicability The present invention is a program for educational materials for computer beginners, children, and the like by making the necessary changes according to the respective applications within the technical scope shown in the claims. It can be used for educational toys or multimedia toys.

Fourth aspect
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a block toy.

Background Art A toy that executes contents or displays contents according to the connection order by arranging blocks associated with content representing an operation such as a computer program, content data that is a part of content such as music or video, etc. It has been known. Such toys are known as educational toys, educational toys and the like. In addition, it is popular to provide computer program education to children, and it is possible to obtain a logical way of thinking by learning grammatical structures used in computer programs and the like.

The present invention provides the opportunity for the child to acquire a logical idea through the play using task blocks.

It is possible to indent the means block for solving the problem .

A block toy comprising: an execution block and a control block associated with content data which is part data of the content, the execution block and the control block being in a pair with a first surface and the first surface And the execution block and the control block have at least two or more first surface connectors in the first surface, and the execution block includes the second surface. At least one second side connector, the control block having at least one second side connector at the second side, the connector of the first side of the control block At least one of which receives at least one of the connectors of the second side of the executive block, and at least one of the connectors of the first side of the executive block is: It can accept at least one connector of the second side of the serial control block.

The first surface and the second surface of the execution block and the control block respectively have an x-axis and a y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis, and the first of the execution block and the control block The connector on the side of the surface and the connector on the second side of the execution block and the control block are aligned on a predetermined x axis.

A center line in the y-axis of the connector of the first surface of the execution block and the control block, and the connector of the second surface of the execution block and the control block corresponds to the first surface or the first surface It can be made to coincide on the same straight line of the x axis in the two planes.

The first surface of the execution block is arranged to move in a first direction on the x-axis with respect to the second surface of the control block, and the upper connector in the first surface of the execution block At least one can receive at least one of the lower connectors in the second side of the control block.

The first side of the first side of the control block or the other side of the execution block having the connector of the first side is the first direction on the x-axis with respect to the second side of the execution block And the connector of the first surface of the other execution block or at least one of the connectors of the first surface of the control block is arranged to move in a second direction which is the opposite direction of At least one of the lower connectors in the second side of the block may be received.

A center line in the y-axis of the connector of the first surface of the execution block and the control block, and a lower connector of the second surface of the execution block and the control block is the first surface or the center line It does not coincide with the center line of the y axis in the second plane.

The upper connector and the lower connector of the execution block and the control block may have a protrusion or recess having a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, an asymmetric shape, and / or an asymmetric shape.

When the control block is disposed below the execution block, the position of the connector on the second surface of the control block is a position moved in one direction on the y axis from the position of the lower connector of the execution block Be placed.

A first surface spaced in the opposite direction from the position on the first surface corresponding to the position of the connector of the second surface arranged most distant in one direction on the y-axis of the execution block In the position in, the execution block does not have a connector on the first side.

A device connected to the block toy via a wire or wirelessly, wherein the device detects the connection of the execution block and the control block, the connection order of the execution block and the control block, and the execution block Content data and control information associated with the control block can be identified.

The device may create an instruction based on the content data and the control information and perform a syntax check of the instruction.

An apparatus for detecting the connection of the execution block and the control block is connected to the block toy via a wired or wireless connection.

The device is electrically connected to any one of the execution block and the control block.

The device can detect the connection of the execution block and the control block using a sensor.

The device can detect the connection of the execution block and the control block using a wireless reader.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description, like reference numerals in the several figures shall indicate like elements.

Overview FIG. 4-1 shows an example of a block according to an embodiment of the present invention. The blocks have a start block 102 and execution blocks 105, 110 and 115. Execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 are each associated with predetermined content, and in FIG. 4-1, execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 are respectively “↑” (up (forward), “→” It is associated with the content (turns to the right) and “↑” (moves up (forward)).

Regarding the association between the execution block and the content data, when the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 are electrically connected, or the content blocks to which the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 are associated are transmitted via wire or wirelessly. When performed, the execution block includes a storage medium storing at least information related to content data (for example, the content data itself, an identifier for identifying the content data, and the like), and a processor executing an instruction stored in the storage medium. The execution block may also include a storage medium and a processor that executes instructions stored in the storage medium. Furthermore, the control block and / or the execution block may have a power supply. The storage medium may be non-volatile, volatile or both. In another embodiment, the content of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 may be obtained by a sensor such as a camera, a wireless reader or the like. If content is acquired by the sensor, the identification of content data of the execution block may be in a form that can be acquired by the sensor. The form which can be acquired by the sensor is, for example, a figure, a bar code, a QR code or the like. The form in which a sensor such as a figure can be obtained may be provided by a display device provided in the execution block. Thereby, the form which can be acquired by the sensor can be changed dynamically. If the content is obtained by the wireless reader, the identification of the content data of the execution block may be in a form that can be obtained by the wireless reader. The forms that can be acquired by the wireless reader include, for example, an RFID tag corresponding to the wireless reader, a WIFI transmission / reception circuit, a Bluetooth transmission / reception circuit, a wireless transmission / reception circuit or device such as a ZigBee transmission / reception circuit. The wireless reader can be, for example, a wireless transmission / reception circuit or device such as an RFID reader, a WIFI transmission / reception circuit, a Bluetooth transmission / reception circuit, or a ZigBee transmission / reception circuit.

The blocks 102, 105, 110 and 115 may, for example, be in the shape of a cube. The shape of the cube is an example, and the shape of the block may be a geometric shape such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a sphere, a triangular prism, a rod or the like.

In FIG. 4A, execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 are physically connected in a beaded connection in this order. In execution blocks 105, 110 and 115, indicia "し", "→" and "↑" that are recognizable from outside the block are associated with the instructions of the respective block.

The start block 102 is physically connected to the block 105 which is one of the execution blocks. As a result, when the block is electrically connected, the start block 102, or the sensor or wireless reader, the execution block 105 is first, the execution block 110 is second, and the execution block 115 is third. That is, the connection order of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 can be specified. In another embodiment, only the execution block may be used to connect without using the start block 102. In this case, any one of the execution blocks may implement the function of the start block 102. In the following, the start block 102 is omitted unless a special description is given.

Figure 4-2 shows a system with blocks. The system 100 comprises a plurality of blocks 102, 105, 110, 115 and a computing device 150. The computing device 150 may specify the connection order of the execution blocks using a sensor or a wireless reader. In another embodiment, when the blocks are electrically connected, the start block 102 identifies the connection order of the execution blocks based on the electrical connection, and sends the identified order to the computer device 150 via wire or wireless. It may be sent. Also, the connection order of execution blocks may be specified by the computer device 150.

The computer device 150 has a display device 152, and executes processing based on the received execution order and content. In the present embodiment, for example, the display device 152 displays the map 153 having squares and the character 154. Computing device 150 moves character 154 of display 152 based on the instructions. For example, the character 154 moves from the start mass 155 to 160 based on the instruction “↑” of the execution block 105, moves from the mass 160 to 165 based on the instruction “→” of the execution block 110, and Based on the instruction “↑” of the execution block 115, the cell moves from the mass 165 to 170. The arrangement order of the blocks makes it possible for children and even first time program creators to enjoy the same experience as creating and executing computer programming.

In the present embodiment, the content is a computer program indicating an operation of an object or the like, and the operation is executed by the computer device 150, but the operation is performed in the start block 102 and / or the execution blocks 105, 110, 115. It may be
In other embodiments, whether the content is voice, music, video, etc., the content may be executed or played back at the computing device 150 or the start block 102. In another embodiment, computing device 150 may be replaced by a device such as a television or music player that can play content and the like.

FIG. 4-3 shows a state where blocks are connected using control blocks. The start block 102 is connected to the execution block 105, and the execution block 105 is connected to the control block (loop block, which is assumed to be repeated twice) 305. Control block 305 is connected to execution block 110. The execution block 110 is connected to the control block 305 and is disposed to slide rightward from the control block 305 by a predetermined distance. The execution block 115 is connected to the execution block 110 and is disposed to slide leftward from the execution block 110 by the predetermined distance. This causes the execution block 110 to be indented from the control block 305 and the execution block 115 to provide a visual representation such that the indent is returned from the execution block 110. For example, when the computer program shown in FIG. 4-3 and the computer program described above is operated in the system shown in FIG. 4-2, the character 154 in the computer device 150 executes the instruction “↑” of the execution block 105, the control block 305 and the execution block The instruction “→” is executed twice based on the instruction “→” of 110, and the instruction “↑” of the execution block 115 is executed. In the present embodiment, the control block being a block of a loop is an example and may be associated with other control functions. The function of the control block may be, for example, a repeat (loop), a conditional branch (branch), a function definition, a function call (function call) function, and the like. The function call function includes the function of calling a function defined by the function definition function. The control block has control information related to the function of the control block by means of a storage medium of the control block, a diagram, a bar code, a QR code or the like. In one embodiment, control information for each control block is obtained using a wired or wireless connection, such as electrical contacts on a connector, a sensor and / or a wireless reader. In another embodiment, a new control block may be used instead of the execution block 115 to return the indent.

The arrangement of the blocks shown in FIG. 4-3 can be represented by a pseudo computer program as follows. The numerical value on the left side indicates the number of steps (the number of lines).
001: Start {
002: Step ↑
003: Loop (2) {
004: Step →
005:}
006: Step ↑
007:}

As understood from FIG. 4-3 and “Step →” on line 004 of the above-mentioned pseudo computer program, block indenting is realized. At this time, it is shown that the indented block is to be controlled by the control block 305. This means that the indent below the control statement (repeat (loop), conditional branch (branch etc)) corresponds to "begin" or "{" in the program, and the indent return corresponds to "end" or "}". means. This makes it possible to learn computer program concepts through indenting. Note that the number of repetitions being "2" is an example, and other numerical values may be used. Further, in the present embodiment, although the control block 305 controls only the execution block 110, an execution block to be controlled can be added by adding another execution block to which an indent is attached. Furthermore, by connecting another control block to the control block 305 and / or the execution block 110, an execution block can be added by further indenting the right side. This makes it possible to arrange blocks with two or more indents.

In another embodiment, if the content data associated with each execution block is part of music, the content data associated with execution block 105 is played back once and then associated with execution block 110. Content data is reproduced twice, and content data associated with the execution block 115 is reproduced once.

Connector Placement Figure 4-4 shows the execution blocks for implementing the block placement with indents shown in Figure 4-3. Fig. 4-4 (b) shows the execution block viewed from the front. The execution blocks 105, 110, 115 have a first upper connector 405 and a second upper connector 410. The first upper connector 405 is shifted to the left in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block. The second upper connector 410 is shifted to the right in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block.

FIG. 4-4 (a) shows the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 in FIG. 4-4 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 450, and the first surface of the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 is shown. Show. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 405 is closer to the left in the longitudinal direction, and the second upper connector 410 is disposed closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 405 and the second upper connector 410 are both centrally disposed in the lateral direction. The dotted lines connecting FIG. 4-4 (a) and FIG. 4-4 (b) indicate the positions of the first upper connector 405 and the second upper connector 410 in FIG. 4-4 (b). Corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution blocks 105, 110, 115).

FIG. 4-4 (c) shows the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 in FIG. 4-4 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 455, and the second surface of the execution blocks 105, 110, and 115 is shown. Show. In the second surface, the lower connector 435 is disposed closer to the left in the longitudinal direction. In the second aspect, the lower connector 435 is centrally disposed in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIG. 4-4 (b) and FIG. 4-4 (c) corresponds to the position of the lower connector 435 in FIG. 4-4 (b) corresponding to that of the execution blocks 105, 110 and 115 in FIG. 4-4 (c). It shows that they correspond in the longitudinal direction of the second surface.

The execution blocks 105, 110, 115 have x and y axes in the first and second faces of the execution block, respectively. The x-axis is the axis in the indented direction, ie the longitudinal axis in FIGS. 4-4 (a) and (c), and the y-axis is the axis perpendicular to the x-axis, ie the figure Axis in the lateral direction in 4-4 (a) and (c). The center lines on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 405 and 410 are arranged on the same line of the x-axis in the first plane. In another embodiment, the centerline on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 405 and 410 coincides with the centerline on the y-axis in the first plane. In FIG. 4-4, the center line on the y-axis of the connector is a line extending in the x-axis at the center point, with the center point at which the length in the lateral direction of the connector is divided in half. The center line on the y-axis of the second surface is a point extending in the x-axis at the center point, with the point dividing the latitudinal length of the first surface and the second surface into halves. . Hereinafter, the same applies to the center line.

In execution blocks 105, 110, 115, the first side corresponds to the second side. The position on the first side of the first upper connector 405 corresponds to the position on the second side of the lower connector 435.

FIG. 4-5 shows a control block for realizing the arrangement of blocks having indents shown in FIG. 4-3. The control block includes at least a "function definition" block, a "function call (function call)" block, a "conditional branch (branch)" block, a "repetition (loop)" block and the like. The control block 305 at least includes a first upper connector 510, a second upper connector 515, and a lower connector 545.

FIG. 4-5 (a) shows the control block 305 in FIG. 4-5 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 560, and shows the first surface of the control block 305. FIG. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 510 is closer to the left in the longitudinal direction, and the second upper connector 515 is disposed closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the first aspect, the first upper connector 510 and the second upper connector 515 are both centrally disposed in the lateral direction.
The dotted lines connecting FIGS. 4-5 (a) and 4-5 (b) show the positions of the first upper connector 510 and the second upper connector 515 in FIG. 4-5 (b). Corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the control block 305 in FIG.

FIG. 4-5 (c) shows the control block 305 in FIG. 4-5 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 565, and shows the second surface of the control block 305. FIG. In the second surface, the lower connector 545 is disposed closer to the right in the longitudinal direction. In the second aspect, the lower connector 545 is centrally disposed in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIG. 4-5 (b) and FIG. 4-5 (c) indicates the position of the lower connector 545 in FIG. 4-5 (b) is the second surface of the control block 305 in FIG. 4-5 (c). Corresponds to the longitudinal direction of.

Control block 305 has an x-axis and a y-axis on the first and second faces of the control block, respectively. The x-axis is the axis in the indented direction, ie the longitudinal axis in FIGS. 4-5 (a) and (c), the y-axis is the axis perpendicular to the x-axis, ie the figure It is an axis in the lateral direction in 4-5 (a) and (c). The center lines on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 510 and 515 are arranged on the same line of the x-axis in the first plane. In another embodiment, the centerline on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 510 and 515 coincides with the centerline on the y-axis in the first plane.

In control block 305, the first side corresponds to the second side. The position on the first side of the first upper connector 510 corresponds to the position on the second side of the lower connector 545.

Placement of blocks using indentation ( placement of execution blocks)
By using the execution blocks and control blocks shown in FIGS. 4-4 and 4-5, arrangement of blocks using indentation is realized. FIG. 4-6 shows an arrangement example of each block. In FIG. 4-6 (a), the first execution block 605 is connected to the second execution block 610. The first and second execution blocks 605, 610 are connected by physically connecting the lower connector 435 of the first execution block 605 to the first upper connector 405 of the second execution block 610. As understood from the figure, when execution blocks are arranged using indents (when the second execution block 610 is arranged shifted to the right from the first execution block 605), the first execution block Since the position of the lower connector 435 of 605 does not correspond to the position of the first upper connector 405 and the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block 610, the second execution block 610 is a first execution block. It is not possible to connect to 605 using indents. That is, execution blocks can not be connected using indents.

(Arrangement of control block and execution block)
FIG. 4-6 (b) shows an arrangement example of control blocks and execution blocks using indents. The lower connector 435 of the first execution block 615 is connected to the first upper connector 510 of the control block 620. The lower connector 545 of the control block 620 is connected to the first upper connector 405 of the second execution block 625. Thus, the second execution block 625 is connected to the control block 620 using an indent. The execution block, the control block, the start block, and / or the computer device may use the electrical contacts of the connector, the sensor and / or the wireless reader to subordinate the control block 620 to the first upper connector 405 of the second execution block 625. By detecting the connection to the connector 545, it is possible to identify that the indent has been applied. In the present embodiment, the lower connector 545 of the control block 620 and the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block 625 have such a shape that the lower connector 545 does not receive the second upper connector 410. good. This can prevent the lower connector 545 of the control block 620 from being connected to the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block 625. In another embodiment, the lower connector 545 of the control block 620 and the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block 625 are shaped such that the lower connector 545 receives the second upper connector 410. Good. In this case, the start block 102, the computer device 150, etc. may check the connection state and detect that the connection between the control block 620 and the second execution block 625 is incorrect.

The lower connector 435 of the second execution block 625 is connected to the first upper connector 405 of the third execution block 630. The lower connector 435 of the third execution block 630 is connected to the second upper connector 410 of the fourth execution block 635. This allows the fourth execution block 635 to return an indent to the third execution block 630. The execution block, the control block, the start block and / or the computer device are connected to the second upper connector 410 of the fourth execution block 635 using electrical contacts of the connector, a sensor and / or a wireless reader. By detecting, it can be identified that the indent has been returned. In another embodiment, if you do not want to perform processing when you return the indent, that is, if you want to return the indent but “No Operation”, instead of the fourth execution block 635, a size similar to the execution block Alternatively, the indent may be returned using a "No Operation" block with a connector. In another embodiment, if the program is terminated without the fourth execution block 635, the "No Operation" block may be absent. In this case, in the third execution block 630, the program ends.

(Arrangement of blocks using two or more indents)
FIG. 4-6 (c) shows an arrangement example of control blocks and execution blocks using two or more indents. The lower connector 545 of the first control block 645 is connected to the first upper connector 510 of the second control block 650. Thus, the second control block 650 is connected to the first control block 645 using the first indent. The lower connector 545 of the second control block 650 is connected to the first upper connector 405 of the first execution block 655. Thus, the first execution block 655 is connected to the second control block 650 using the second indent. Therefore, in the present embodiment, arrangement of blocks using two indents is realized. The lower connector 435 of the first execution block 655 is connected to the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block 660. This allows the second execution block 660 to return an indent of one for the first execution block 655. The lower connector 435 of the second execution block 660 is connected to the second upper connector 410 of the third execution block 665. Thereby, the third execution block 665 can return an indent of one for the second execution block 660. The second execution block 660 and the third execution block 665 allow two indents to be returned. The control range of the first control block 645 is the second control block 650, the first execution block 655, the second execution block 660, and the control of the second control block 650. The range is specified to be the first execution block 655. In another embodiment, instead of the second execution block 660 and the third execution block 665, two "No Operation" blocks may be used to return the indent. In another embodiment, instead of the second execution block 660 and the third execution block 665, the indent may be returned using a single "No Operation" block sized to return two indents.

As described above, when using indents, the nested structure indicating the control range by the control block or the like becomes clear, and the nested structure becomes easy to understand visually. Also, the depth of indentation (number of times) indicates the depth of nesting (number of times). Here, nesting (or nesting) refers to a state or structure in which something having the same shape or the same type (which may be smaller or smaller) is contained. In the present embodiment, blocks to be nested can be all control blocks and execution blocks.

Two or more indents can be returned by using an indent return block longer than the length of the execution block with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first side and the second side of the block execution block that returns two or more indents. FIG. 4-7 shows an example using an indent return block.

In FIG. 4-7, as in FIG. 4-6 (c), the first control block 705, the second control block 710, and the first execution block 715 are connected. The lower connector 435 of the first execution block 715 is connected to the upper connector 750 of the indent return block 720. The lower connector 755 of the indent return block 720 is connected to the first upper connector 405 of the second execution block 725. Thus, the indent return block 720 can return two indents. This embodiment for returning two indents is an example, and as understood by those skilled in the art, the indenting block 720 in which the longitudinal lengths of the first and second surfaces are changed. By preparing, it is possible to indent back one minute or more than three indents. This provides a more complex visual representation of indents. Furthermore, the indent return block may be realized by a block in which the length in the longitudinal direction of the first surface and the second surface is variable.

The function of the indent return block 720 can at least have only the function of returning the indent. Therefore, the function of the indent return block 720 may be substantially "No Operation". In another embodiment, the indent return block 720 may be associated with content data of a predetermined execution block. In this case, by using the indent return block 720, the steps of the related content data are executed.

Variants of Blocks Returning Two or More Indents FIG. 4-8 shows execution blocks that can return two or more indents. Fig. 4-8 (b) shows the execution block as viewed from the front. The execution block 805 has a first upper connector 820 and a second upper connector 825. The first upper connector 820 is disposed closer to the left in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block. The second upper connector 825 is offset to the right in the longitudinal direction of the first face of the execution block.

FIG. 4-8 (a) shows the execution block 805 in FIG. 4-8 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 850, and shows the first surface of the execution block 805. In the first surface, the first upper connector 820 is disposed to the left in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block, and the second upper connector 825 is disposed to the right in the longitudinal direction. There is. In the first aspect, both the first upper connector 820 and the second upper connector 825 are centrally disposed in the lateral direction. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 4-8 (a) and 4-8 (b) corresponds to the positions of the first upper connector 820 and the second upper connector 825 in FIG. 4-8 (b). Corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the execution block 805 in FIG.

FIG. 4-8 (c) shows the execution block 805 in FIG. 4-8 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 855, and shows the second surface of the execution block 805. In the second surface, the first lower connector 830 is disposed to the left in the longitudinal direction. The second lower connector 835 is centrally located in the longitudinal direction of the second face of the execution block. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 4-8 (b) and 4-8 (c) corresponds to the position of the first and second lower connectors 830 and 835 in FIG. 4-8 (b) in FIG. 4-8 (c). It indicates that the longitudinal direction of the second surface of the execution block 805 corresponds.

Execution block 805 has an x-axis and a y-axis on the first and second sides of the execution block, respectively. The x-axis is the axis in the indented direction, ie the longitudinal axis in FIGS. 4-8 (a) and (c), the y-axis is the axis perpendicular to the x-axis, ie the figure 4-8 (a) and (c) are axes in the short direction. The center lines on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 820 and 825 are arranged on the same line of the x-axis in the first plane. In another embodiment, the centerline on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 820 and 825 coincides with the centerline on the y-axis in the first plane.

In the present embodiment, portions 880 and 885 indicated by dotted lines in FIGS. 4-8 (a), (b) and (c) indicate that the execution block 805 does not have a connector in this portion. . The position of the dotted line portion 880 may correspond to the position of the second lower connector 835, and the position of the dotted line portion 885 may correspond to the position of the second upper connector 825. In another embodiment, the number of upper connectors and / or lower connectors of the execution block 805 may be three.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-4 and 4-8, the number of upper connectors of the execution block may be equal to the number of lower connectors. That is, when the number of upper connectors of the execution block is N (natural number), the number of lower connectors is N. Further, as understood from the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-4 and 4-8, the number of upper connectors of the execution block can be smaller than the number of lower connectors. Therefore, when the number of upper connectors of the execution block is N, the number of lower connectors can be at least N−1 or less.

Figures 4-9 show control blocks that can return two or more indents. FIG. 4-9 (b) shows the control block viewed from the front. The control block 905 has a first upper connector 920 and a second upper connector 925. The first upper connector 920 is shifted to the left in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the control block. The second upper connector 925 is offset to the right in the longitudinal direction of the first face of the control block.

FIG. 4-9 (a) shows the control block 905 in FIG. 4-9 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 950, and shows the first surface of the control block 905. In the first surface, the first upper connector 920 is disposed closer to the left in the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the control block, and the second upper connector 925 is disposed in the longitudinal direction toward the right There is. In the first aspect, both the first upper connector 920 and the second upper connector 925 are centrally located in the lateral direction. The dotted lines connecting FIGS. 4-9 (a) and 4-9 (b) indicate the positions of the first upper connector 920 and the second upper connector 925 in FIG. 4-9 (b). Corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the first surface of the control block 905 in FIG.

FIG. 4-9 (c) shows the control block 905 in FIG. 4-9 (b) viewed from the direction of the arrow 955, and shows the second surface of the control block 905. In the second aspect, the lower connector 930 is centrally located in the longitudinal direction. The dotted line connecting FIGS. 4-9 (b) and 4-9 (c) corresponds to the second surface of the control block 905 in FIG. 4-9 (c) at the position of the lower connector 930 in FIG. 4-9 (b). Corresponds to the longitudinal direction of.

The control block 905 has x and y axes in the first and second faces of the control block, respectively. The x-axis is the axis in the indented direction, ie the longitudinal axis in FIGS. 4-9 (a) and (c), the y-axis is the axis perpendicular to the x-axis, ie the figure 4-9 (a) and (c) are axes in the short direction. The center lines on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 920 and 925 are arranged on the same line of the x-axis in the first plane. In another embodiment, the centerline on the y-axis of the first and second upper connectors 920 and 925 coincides with the centerline on the y-axis in the first plane.

In the present embodiment, portions 980, 985 and 990 shown by dotted lines in FIGS. 4-9 (a), (b) and (c) are that control block 905 does not have a connector in this portion. Indicates The position of the dotted portion 980 corresponds to the position in the longitudinal direction of the lower connector 930, the position of the dotted portion 985 corresponds to the position in the longitudinal direction of the first upper connector 920, and the position of the dotted portion 990 is the second Position of the upper connector 925 in the longitudinal direction. The positions of the first and second upper connectors 820, 825 in the first surface of the execution block 805 correspond to the positions of the first and second upper connectors 920, 925 in the first surface of the control block 905, respectively. Do. Also, the position of the second lower connector 835 in the second surface of the execution block 805 corresponds to the position of the lower connector 930 in the second surface of the control block 905. In another embodiment, the number of upper connectors and / or lower connectors of the control block 905 may be three.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-5 and 4-9, the number of upper connectors of the control block may be equal to the number of lower connectors. In other embodiments, the number of upper connectors of the control block can be less than the number of lower connectors. That is, when the number of upper connectors of the control block is N (natural number), the number of lower connectors is N-1 or less.

Placement of blocks returning two or more indents Figure 4-10 shows the placement of blocks returning two or more indents. The first control block 1005 is connected to the first execution block 1010 via the lower connector 930 and the first upper connector 820. As a result, the first indent is added. The first execution block 1010 is connected to the second execution block 1015 via the first lower connector 830 and the first upper connector 820.

The second execution block 1015 is connected to the second control block 1020 via the first lower connector 830 and the first upper connector 920. The second control block 1020 is connected to the third execution block 1025 via the lower connector 930 and the first upper connector 820. This adds a second indent. The third execution block 1025 is connected to the fourth execution block 1030 via the first lower connector 830 and the second upper connector 825. This allows the fourth execution block 1030 to return two indents.

The fourth execution block 1030 is connected to the third control block 1035 via the first lower connector 830 and the first upper connector 920. The third control block 1035 is connected to the fifth execution block 1040 via the lower connector 930 and the first upper connector 820. This adds one indent. The fifth execution block 1040 is connected to the sixth execution block 1045 via the second lower connector 835 and the second upper connector 825. This allows the sixth execution block 1045 to return an indent of one.

In the present embodiment, the number and position of connectors of each block are exemplification, and the number and position of connectors may be changed according to the manner of indenting as understood by those skilled in the art.

In the present embodiment, the execution block, the control block, the start block and / or the computer device are indented for each execution block and each control block using electrical contacts of the connector, a sensor and / or a wireless reader. And / or that the indent has been returned.

In each of the above embodiments, blocks are described that return one or more indents. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, in one embodiment, blocks that return three or more indents may be used. In the above embodiment, the embodiment is described using blocks in which the number of indents returned is the same. However, blocks in which one indent is returned and blocks in which two or more indents are returned may be mixed.

Connector Connection Means FIG. 4-11 shows a block having a connector using a magnet. The first block 1105 and the second block 1110, which are control blocks or execution blocks, comprise connectors 1115-1160 with magnets. For example, the first block 1105 is connected to the second block 1110 via a connector, and the connector 1130 of the first block 1105 is connected to the connector 1150 of the second block 1110. The connector 1130 and the connector 1150 respectively include magnets 1170 and 1175 and magnets 1180 and 1190. In the magnet 1170, an N pole is disposed on the second surface of the first block 1105, and in the magnet 1180, an S pole is disposed on the first surface of the second block 1110. Thereby, magnets 1170 and 1180 generate attraction forces. Magnets 1175 and 1190 are similarly arranged such that the north pole and the south pole are paired. Thus, the connector 1130 and the connector 1150 can be connected by the attractive force of the magnets. Other connectors likewise have magnets. The arrangement, the number, the shape, etc. of the magnets in the present embodiment are exemplifications, and in each connector of the two blocks to be connected, the arrangement, the number, the shape, etc. of the magnets are as long as the magnets are paired. And can be changed as appropriate.

FIG. 4-12 shows a block having a connector using asperities. The connector 1230 of the first block 1205 is connected to the connector 1250 of the second block 1210. The connector 1230 has one or more protrusions 1280 and one or more recesses 1285, and the connector 1250 has one or more protrusions 1295 and one or more recesses 1290. One or more recesses 1290 of the connector 1250 correspond to and can receive one or more protrusions 1280 of the connector 1230. Also, the one or more recesses 1285 of the connector 1230 correspond to the one or more protrusions 1295 of the connector 1250 and can be received. Thereby, the connector 1230 and the connector 1250 are fixed by fitting. The arrangement, the number, the shape, and the like of the concavo-convex portion in the present embodiment are exemplifications, and in each connector of two blocks to be connected, the arrangement, the number, and the number of concavo-convex portions if the concavo-convex portion is paired. The shape and the like can be changed as appropriate.

FIG. 4-13 shows a block in which the entire connector constitutes an uneven portion. The connector 1330 of the first block 1305 forms a protrusion and the connector 1350 of the second block 1310 forms a recess. The connector 1330 of the first block 1305 is connected to the connector 1350 of the second block 1310. Thereby, the connector 1330 and the connector 1350 are fixed by fitting. The arrangement, the number, the shape, and the like of the concavo-convex portion in the present embodiment are exemplifications, and in each connector of two blocks to be connected, the arrangement, the number, and the number of concavo-convex portions if the concavo-convex portion is paired. The shape and the like can be changed as appropriate.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-12 and 4-13, the asperities may each have a pair of magnets to make fixing easier. In another embodiment, the uneven portion is formed in a tapered shape and can be fitted more easily. In another embodiment, the asperities may be in the shape of the block itself.

As another embodiment of the connection means of the connector, means for connecting and fixing a first block and a second block such as a surface fastener and a suction cup may be used in part or all of the connector.

Some or all of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-11, 4-12 and 4-13 and other embodiments of the connecting means of the connector may be used in combination. This places the block in a more accurate position and fixes it.

FIG. 4-14 shows the placement of the connector on the first side of the block. The line 1450 shows the center line in the y direction of the first surface. The connectors 1410 and 1420 are offset from the center line of the first surface in the y direction in the negative direction. Also, the connectors of the other blocks connected in pairs to the connectors 1410 and 1420 are similarly arranged offset from the center line in the y direction in the negative direction. In other embodiments, the connectors 1410 and 1420 may have a convex (or concave) portion, and the connector connected in a pair to the connectors 1410 and 1420 may have a concave (or convex) portion. In yet another embodiment, each connector may have a magnet as shown in FIG. 4-11. Thus, when two blocks are connected, the displacement of the block in the y-axis direction is easily detected while maintaining the displacement of the block in the x-axis direction, which is the indent. . In the present embodiment, as understood from FIGS. 4-14, in the first and second planes of each block, the axis in the direction of indentation is the x axis, and the axis perpendicular to the x axis is the y axis I assume. Furthermore, the center line of the y axis in the first surface and the second surface is “0”, the first direction on the y axis is positive, and the direction opposite to the first direction is negative. In this embodiment, the centerline of the connectors 1410 and 1420 in the y-axis deviates in the plus or minus direction from "0" on the y-axis which is the centerline of the y-axis in the first and second planes. Thus, the centerline in the y-axis of the connector does not coincide with the centerline in the y-axis of the block first and second planes.

Figures 4-15 show the shape of the connector on the first side of the block. The connectors 1510 and 1520 have a trapezoidal shape in the first surface. Also, the connectors of the other blocks connected in pairs to the connectors 1510 and 1520 similarly have a trapezoidal shape. The connectors 1510 and 1520 have a trapezoidal convex (or concave) portion, and the connectors of other blocks connected in pairs to the connectors 1510 and 1520 have a trapezoidal concave (or convex) portion. Thus, when two blocks are connected, the displacement of the block in the x-axis direction, which is the indent, is maintained, but the displacement of the block in the y-axis direction does not occur. In other embodiments, the connectors 1510 and 1520 may have shapes other than a trapezoid, for example, other polygons such as triangles and pentagons, oval shapes, left-right asymmetrical shapes, top-bottom asymmetrical shapes, etc. The polygonal shaped portion of this embodiment may be applied to the uneven portion shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4-12.

According to the embodiments of FIGS. 4-14 and 4-15, when connecting two blocks, the two blocks are moved and connected in the x-axis direction, which is the direction of indenting, in the direction perpendicular to the x-axis direction. It is connected without moving (shifting) in a certain y-axis direction.

Some or all of the embodiments described in connection with the connection means of the connector may be used in combination. By using in combination, connection of two or more blocks can be performed at a more accurate position, and connection can be made more firmly.

Block Connection Check A combination of blocks that can not be connected can be realized using the connector connection means described above. For example, the lower connector 435 of the first execution block can not be connected to the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block. In the present embodiment, the magnet is made to have N poles or S poles, and / or a recess or a convex, in a portion where the lower connector 435 of the first execution block and the second upper connector 410 of the second execution block are in contact. By combining parts, a combination of blocks (connectors) that can not be connected may be realized.

The combinations of blocks (connectors) that can not be connected include the following. In addition, this is an illustration and there may be an example which can not be connected by other combinations.
(1) Combination of lower connector 545 of control block and second upper connector 410 of execution block (2) Combination of lower connector 545 of control block and second upper connector 515 of other control block

In another embodiment, the connection check of the blocks is not made impossible to connect the connector of each block, but the connection of each block can be made, but it may be detected that the connection is not correct. This corresponds to the same function as compilation in computer programming. For example, a device that is one or more of an execution block, a control block, a start block and / or a computer device, etc. may be an execution block using an electrical contact of a connector, a sensor and / or a wireless reader While specifying whether it is a control block, the connection order of the execution block and the control block is specified. Thereby, the combination of the blocks (connectors) which can not be connected is detected. In one embodiment, the device specifies the connection order of the execution block and the control block, and also uses content contacts associated with the execution block and the control block using electrical contacts of the connector, a sensor and / or a wireless reader or By specifying control information, a predetermined instruction is created. The apparatus uses a grammar check tool such as lint to check the predetermined instruction to see if the predetermined instruction satisfies the predetermined grammar such as that of the program. Thus, the device can be connected to the execution block and the control block via the wired or wireless connection with the electrical contacts of the connector, the sensor and / or the wireless reader and the content data or control associated with the execution block and the control block Identify the information.

Variations of Connector Positions in Blocks Returning Two or More Indentations FIGS. 4-16 illustrate a first variation regarding connector positions in blocks returning two indents. In FIG. 4-16, execution blocks 1602, 1606, 1610, 1612, 1614, 1620, 1624, 1628, 1630 and control blocks 1604, 1608, 1622, 1626 are used. The execution block and control block are divided into six sections as shown in the figure. The execution block includes a first section 1640, a second section 1642, a third section 1644, a fourth section 1646, a fifth section 1648 and a sixth section 1650. The control block includes a first section 1660, a second section 1662, a third section 1664, a fourth section 1666, a fifth section 1668 and a sixth section 1670. In each block, on the upper side (first surface side), the first section, the second section and the third section are arranged in series in the longitudinal direction (indent direction), and the lower side (the second surface side) ), The fourth section, the fifth section and the sixth section are also arranged in series in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal lengths of the first section, the second section, the third section, the fourth section, the fifth section, and the sixth section may be the same.

The execution block is in the first section 1640 in the first upper connector 1652, in the second section 1642 in the second upper connector 1654, in the third section 1644 in the third upper connector 1656, and in the fourth section 1646 It has a lower connector 1658.
The control block includes the first upper connector 1672 in the first section 1660, the second upper connector 1674 in the second section 1662, the third upper connector 1676 in the third section 1664, and the fifth section 1668. A lower connector 1678 is provided.

In FIG. 4-16 (a), the connection of the control block 1604 and the execution block 1606 gives a first indent, and the connection of the control block 1608 and the execution block 1610 gives a second indent. The connection of execution blocks 1610, 1612, 1614 causes the two indents to be returned using two execution blocks 1612, 1614.

In FIG. 4-16 (b), the connection of the control block 1622 and the execution block 1624 gives a first indent, and the connection of the control block 1626 and the execution block 1628 gives a second indent. The connection of execution blocks 1628, 1630 causes two indents to be returned using one execution block 1630.

In this embodiment, the lower connector of the control block needs to be disposed to the right of the lower connector of the execution block in order to indent. That is, the lower connector 1678 of the control block is disposed in the fifth section 1668, and the lower connector 1658 of the execution block is disposed in the fourth section 1646.

FIGS. 4-17 show a second variant on the connector position in the block returning two indents. In FIG. 4-17, execution blocks 1702, 1706, 1710, 1712, 1714, 1720, 1724, 1728, 1730 and control blocks 1704, 1708, 1722, 1726 are used. The execution block and control block are divided into six sections as shown in the figure. The execution block includes a first section 1740, a second section 1742, a third section 1744, a fourth section 1746, a fifth section 1748 and a sixth section 1750. The control block includes a first section 1760, a second section 1762, a third section 1764, a fourth section 1766, a fifth section 1768 and a sixth section 1770. In each block, on the upper side (first surface side), the first section, the second section, and the third section are longitudinally arranged in series, and on the lower side (second surface side), The four compartments, the fifth compartment and the sixth compartment are also arranged in series longitudinally. The longitudinal lengths of the first section, the second section, the third section, the fourth section, the fifth section, and the sixth section may be the same.

The execution block is the first upper connector 1752 in the second section 1742, the second upper connector 1754 in the third section 1744, the first lower connector 1756 in the fourth section 1746 and the first section connector 1756 in the fourth section 1746. It has two lower connectors 1758. The control block has a first superior connector 1774 in the second compartment 1762, a second superior connector 1776 in the third compartment 1764, and a inferior connector 1778 in the sixth compartment 1770.

In FIG. 4-17 (a), the connection of the control block 1704 and the execution block 1706 gives a first indent, and the connection of the control block 1708 and the execution block 1710 gives a second indent. The connection of execution blocks 1710, 1712 and 1714 causes the two indents to be returned using two execution blocks 1712 and 1714.

In FIG. 4-17 (b), the connection of the control block 1722 and the execution block 1724 gives a first indent, and the connection of the control block 1726 and the execution block 1728 gives a second indent. The connection of execution blocks 1728, 1730 causes two indents to be returned using one execution block 1730.

In this embodiment, in order to add indents, the lower connector of the control block needs to be arranged to the right of the lower connector located at the rightmost position of the execution block. That is, the lower connector 1778 of the control block is disposed in the sixth section 1770, and the lower connector 1758 disposed at the rightmost end of the execution block is disposed in the fifth section 1748. The connector may not be arranged in the first section 1740 which is the section on the first surface side corresponding to the fourth section 1746 which is the section on the left side of the second lower connector 1758 of the execution block.

FIGS. 4-18 show a first example of connector positions in a block that returns three indents. In Figures 4-18, execution blocks 1802, 1806, 1810, 1812, 1814, 1816, 1820, 1822, 1824, 1826, 1828, 1830, 1832 and control blocks 1804, 1808 are used. As can be appreciated from FIGS. 4-18 (a), further indents may be added after execution block 1810 using control blocks. Each block includes a first section 1850, 1880, a second section 1852, 1882, a third section 1854, 1884, a fourth section 1856, 1886, a fifth section 1858, 1888, a sixth section 1860, 1890, the seventh compartment 1862, 1892 and the eighth compartment 1864, 1894. The execution block is the first upper connector 1870 in the third section 1854, the second upper connector 1872 in the fourth section 1856, the first lower connector 1874 in the fifth section 1858, the first in the sixth section 1860 A second lower connector 1876 and a third lower connector 1878 in the seventh section 1862. The control block has a first upper connector 1896 in the third section 1884, a second upper connector 1897 in the fourth section 1886, and a lower connector 1898 in the eighth section 1894.

In the present embodiment, the lower connector of the control block is disposed to the right of the position of the lower connector disposed at the rightmost side of the execution block. That is, the lower connector 1898 of the control block is disposed in the eighth section 1894, and the lower connector 1878 disposed on the rightmost side of the execution block is disposed in the seventh section 1862. The upper connector may not be disposed on the first surface side (in the second section 1852) corresponding to the left side of the position of the lower connector 1878 disposed on the rightmost side on the second surface side of the execution block . That is, even if the connector is not disposed in the second section 1852 which is the section on the first surface side corresponding to the sixth section 1860 which is the section on the left side of the third lower connector 1878 of the execution block. Good. Also in the first section 1850, the connector may not be disposed.

FIG. 4-18 (a) shows an example of connection of execution blocks and control blocks. FIG. 4-18 (b) shows an example connection of execution blocks that return three indents. FIG. 4-18 (c) shows an example connection of an execution block that returns two indents. FIG. 4-18 (d) shows an example connection of an execution block that returns one indent. Fig. 4-18 (e) shows an example of connection of execution blocks when connected without returning the indent.

FIGS. 4-19 show a second embodiment for the connector position in the block returning three indents. In FIGS. 4-19, execution blocks 1902, 1906, 1910, 1912, 1914, 1916, 1918, 1920, 1922, 1924, 1926 and control blocks 1904, 1908 are used. As can be appreciated from FIG. 4-19 (a), further indents may be added after execution block 1910 using control blocks. Each block comprises a first compartment 1950, 1980, a second compartment 1952, 1982, a third compartment 1954, 1984, a fourth compartment 1956, 1986, a fifth compartment 1958, 1988, a sixth compartment 1960, 1990, the seventh compartment 1962, 1992 and the eighth compartment 1964, 1994. The execution block is the first upper connector 1970 in the first section 1950, the second upper connector 1972 in the second section 1952, the third upper connector 1974 in the third section 1954, the fourth in the fourth section 1956 And a lower connector 1978 in the fifth section 1958. The control block is connected to the first upper connector 1995 in the first section 1980, the second upper connector 1996 in the second section 1982, the third upper connector 1997 in the third section 1984, and the fourth section 1986. The four upper connectors 1998 and the sixth connector 1990 have lower connectors 1999.

In the present embodiment, the lower connector of the control block is disposed to the right of the position of the lower connector disposed at the rightmost side of the execution block. That is, the lower connector 1999 of the control block is disposed in the sixth section 1890, and the lower connector 1978 disposed at the rightmost of the execution block is disposed in the fifth section 1958.

FIG. 4-19 (a) shows an example of connection of execution blocks and control blocks. FIG. 4-19 (b) shows an example connection of an execution block that returns one indent. FIG. 4-19 (c) shows a connection example of an execution block that returns two indents. FIG. 4-19 (d) shows an example connection of execution blocks that return three indents. FIG. 4-19 (e) shows a connection example of execution blocks when connected without returning the indent.

FIGS. 4-20 show an embodiment for the connector position in the 7 indent returning block. In FIG. 4-20, execution blocks 2002, 2006, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018 and control blocks 2004, 2008 are used. As can be understood from FIG. 4-20 (a), five more control blocks may be used to further indent after execution block 2010. Each block includes a first section 2031, 2061, a second section 2032, 2062, a third section 2033, 2063, a fourth section 2034, 2064, a fifth section 2035, 2065, a sixth section 2036, 2066, seventh section 2037, 2067, eighth section 2038, 2068, ninth section 2039, 2069, tenth section 2040, 2070, eleventh section 2041, 2071, twelfth section 2042, 2072, A thirteenth section 2043, 2073, a fourteenth section 2044, 2074, a fifteenth section 2045, 2075, and a sixteenth section 2046, 2076.
The execution block is the first upper connector 2050 in the fourth section 2034, the second upper connector 2051 in the fifth section 2035, the third upper connector 2052 in the sixth section 2036, and the second section connector The fourth upper connector 2053 in the fourth section 2038, the fifth upper connector 2054 in the eighth section 2038, the first lower connector 2055 in the ninth section 2039, the second lower connector 2056 in the tenth section 2040, the eleventh section 2041 In the third lower connector 2057 and the fourth lower connector 2058 in the twelfth section 2042. The control block is the first upper connector 2080 in the fourth section 2064, the second upper connector 2081 in the fifth section 2065, the third upper connector 2082 in the sixth section 2066, and the control block in the seventh section 2067. And a fifth upper connector 2084 in the eighth section 2068, and a lower connector 2085 in the thirteenth section 2073.

In the present embodiment, the lower connector of the control block is disposed to the right of the position of the lower connector disposed at the rightmost side of the execution block. That is, the lower connector 2085 of the control block is disposed in the thirteenth section 2073, and the lower connector 2058 disposed on the rightmost side of the execution block is disposed in the twelfth section 2042. The upper connector may not be disposed on the first surface side (in the third section 2033) corresponding to the left side of the position of the lower connector 2058 disposed on the rightmost side on the second surface side of the execution block . That is, even if the connector is not disposed in the third section 2033 which is the section on the first surface side corresponding to the eleventh section 2041 which is the section on the left side of the fourth lower connector 2058 of the execution block. Good. In addition, the connectors may not be disposed in the first section 2031 and / or the second section 2032.

FIG. 4-20 (a) shows an example of connection of execution blocks and control blocks. FIG. 4-20 (b) shows an example connection of execution blocks that return five indents.

In each of the above embodiments, the connector is described as a part of the shape of the block, but in another embodiment, the shape of the whole block may be used as the connector.

Example of Block Having Connection Limiting Unit FIG. 4-21 shows a first embodiment of a control block having a connection limiting unit. In the present embodiment, control block 305 is connected to execution block 105. The control block 305 has planar connector portions 510, 515, 545. The execution block 105 includes planar connector portions 405, 410, 435. The control block 305 includes a connection restriction unit 2105. The connection limiting portion 2105 is disposed on the second surface, and a convex portion is formed on the second surface. The connection limiting portion 2105 can be tapered from the second surface in a direction away from the first surface. More specifically, the connection limiting unit 2105 forms a taper at least on the surface of the connection limiting unit 2105 on the lower connector 545 side.

FIG. 4-22 shows a second embodiment of a control block having a connection limiting unit. In the present embodiment, control block 305 is connected to execution block 105. The control block 305 has recessed connector portions 510, 515, 545. The execution block 105 has recessed connector portions 405, 410, 435. The control block 305 includes a connection restriction unit 2205. Since the connection limiting unit 2205 does not receive the concave connector portions 405 and 410 of the execution block 105, the execution block 105 is connected to the control block 305 using an indent.

FIG. 4-23 shows a second embodiment of a control block having a connection limiting unit. In the present embodiment, control block 305 is connected to execution block 105. The control block 305 has convex connector portions 510, 515, 545. The execution block 105 has convex connector portions 405, 410, 435. The control block 305 includes a connection restriction unit 2305. Since the connection limiting unit 2305 does not receive the convex connector portions 405 and 410 of the execution block 105, the execution block 105 is connected to the control block 305 using an indent.

FIG. 4-24 shows the shape of the connector portion. FIGS. 4-24 (b), (c), and (d) show examples of the lower surface portion of FIG. 4-24 (a) as viewed in the direction of the arrow 2410, for example. FIG. 4-24 (b) shows that the shape of the concave or convex portion of the connector portion is a shape extending in the lateral direction of the lower surface portion. FIG. 4-24 (c) shows that the shape of the concave or convex portion of the connector portion is circular or elliptical at the lower surface portion. FIG. 4-24 (d) shows that the shape of the concave or convex portion of the connector portion is a trapezoidal shape in the lower surface portion. In other embodiments, the shape of the recess or the protrusion of the connector portion may be other polygons such as triangles and pentagons other than these shapes, a left-right asymmetrical shape, a top-bottom asymmetrical shape, etc.

In each of the above embodiments, the connection restriction unit may be part of a control block or an execution block. In other embodiments, the connection restriction may be attachable to the control block or the execution block. In other embodiments, the connection limiting portion may have a shape other than the trapezoidal and rectangular shapes shown in the embodiments, for example, other polygons such as triangles and pentagons, a left-right asymmetrical shape, a top-bottom asymmetrical shape, etc. . In another embodiment, the lower surface portion of the connection limiting portion may be formed to be further away from the upper surface portion.

In the above embodiment, the embodiment is shown in the form of adding a block below the block located above. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, in the present embodiment, the first side and the second side of the block may be interchanged and the block may be stacked on top.

Although the block is described as a hexahedron in the above embodiment, the block may be a polyhedron having two faces whose faces are parallel in a predetermined direction.

In the above embodiments, some or all of the elements described to be implemented in hardware can be implemented in software, and some elements described to be implemented in software It will be appreciated that some or all of the can be implemented in hardware.

The toy described above has been described as a toy for children and infants, but the toys may be for students in the 10-20 years, adults, and elderly people.

In the processing or processing order described above, in a certain processing, processing or processing order as long as there is no inconsistency in processing or processing order such as using data which should not be available in the processing, etc. Can be changed freely.

With regard to each of the embodiments described above, some or all of the embodiments may be combined and implemented as one embodiment.

In connection with the description of the claims, when the block is connected from the top to the bottom, the "connector of the first surface" and the "connector of the second surface" in the claims respectively refer to Corresponds to "upper connector" and "lower connector". In the case of connecting the blocks from the bottom to the top, the “first surface connector” and the “second surface connector” are respectively the “lower connector” and the “upper connector” in the above embodiments. It may correspond to

Each embodiment described above is an illustration for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The present invention can be practiced in various forms without departing from the scope of the invention.

First aspect (about Fig. 1-1 to Fig. 1-7)
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCES 102 Start end control block 105, 110, 115 Control block 120 End control block 150 Computer device 302, 502 Data acquisition block 304, 504 First control block 306, 506 Second control block 308, 508 Third Control block 310, 510 fourth control block

Data acquisition block configuration 322, 522 Control unit 324, 524 External input / output interface 326, 526 Transmission unit 328, 528 Connection detection unit 330, 530 Reception unit 332, 532 Unique information storage unit

Control block configuration 342, 542 control unit 344, 544 connection notification unit 346 transmission unit 348, 548 connection detection unit 350 reception unit 352, 552 unique information storage unit 354 transmission destination switching unit 546 first transmission unit 550 first reception Part 554 Second Receiver 556 Second Transmitter

Second aspect (about FIG. 2-1 to FIG. 2-18)
102 start blocks 105, 110, 115 execution blocks 125 wired and / or wireless lines 150 computer devices

Start block 305 Processor 310 ROM
315 RAM
320 connector 1720 connector for function definition

Table 410, 610 included in the start block Content table 420, 710 Identifier correspondence information table 430 Block connection information table

Execution block 510 Upper connector 515 Processor 520 ROM
530 RAM
535 lower connector 905 first upper connector 910 second upper connector

Function definition block 510 Upper connector 515 Processor 520 ROM
530 RAM
535 low order connector 1730 first function definition connector 1740 second function definition connector

Control block 1005 Control block 1010 first upper connector 1015 second upper connector 1020 processor 1030 ROM
1040 RAM
1045 lower connector

Setting block 1605 Setting block 1610 Processor 1615 ROM
1620 RAM
1650 connector

Third aspect (about FIGS. 3-1 to 3-36)
3: ceiling plate 10: basic block 11: RF tag 12: housing 13: movable plate 14: auxiliary component 15: auxiliary component 20: basic block 30: basic block 31: RF tag 32: housing 33: movable plate 40: basic block 50: Basic block 51: RF tag 52: Housing 53: Flexible plate 54: Movable plate 100: Execution block 101: Housing 102: Ceiling plate 103: Floor plate 106: Plate 107: Long-side direction movement assisting part 110: Basic Block 120: Basic block 140: Basic block 200: Control block 201: Housing 202: Ceiling plate 203: Floor plate 207: Long-side direction moving auxiliary parts 208: Short-side direction moving plate 210: Basic block 220: Basic block 240: Basic block 250: Basic block 300: Argument block 301: Housing 302: Ceiling plate 304: Flexible plate 305: Button 306: Rotation stopper 310: Basic block 320: Basic block 500: Practical block 600: Control Block 630: Argument block

Fourth aspect (about FIG. 4-1 to FIG. 4-24)
100: System 102: Start block 105: Execution block 110: Execution block 115: Execution block 150: Computer device 152: Display device 153: Map 305: Character 305: Control block 405: First upper connector 410: Second upper connector Connector 435: lower connector 510: first upper connector 515: second upper connector 545: lower connector 805: execution block 820: first upper connector 825: second upper connector 830: first lower connector 835: Second lower connector 905: control block 920: first upper connector 925: second upper connector 930: lower connector

Claims (40)

One or more objects that are communicatively connected to each other and that each store an instruction representing part of a series of operations and / or information about said instruction;
A first object communicatively connected to at least one of the one or more objects and identifying a sequence of the connection of the one or more objects. In the device according to claim 1,
The sequence of operations by associating the first object with the order of the connection of the one or more objects and the instructions stored by the one or more objects and / or information about the instructions Identify the device. In the device according to claim 2,
The apparatus wherein the command in the one or more objects is associated with an externally recognizable indicia on the one or more objects. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
The first object is detected that the first object receives an input from a user and / or that a second object is connected to any one of the one or more objects. The apparatus, which starts identifying the order of the connection according to. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
The first object transmits the series of movements or information about the movements to an external device, or at least one of the first object, the second object and the one or more objects is An apparatus for performing the series of operations. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The device wherein the first object periodically identifies the order of connection. One or more objects communicatively connected to each other, at least one of the one or more objects each storing an instruction representing a portion of the content of the series of operations and / or information about the instruction An apparatus communicably connected to the to identify the order of the connection of the one or more objects. One or more objects communicatively connected to each other, at least one of the one or more objects each storing an instruction representing a portion of the content of the series of operations and / or information about the instruction A computer program for causing a first object communicably connected to to specify an order of the connection of the one or more objects. One or more objects communicatively connected to each other, at least one of the one or more objects each storing an instruction representing a portion of the content of the series of operations and / or information about the instruction And a first object communicatively connected to specifying the order of connection of the one or more objects. A storage medium storing the computer program according to claim 8. Be a block toy,
Block controller,
One or more toy blocks connected to the block controller;
Equipped with
The block toy, wherein the block control device can replace at least a part of the correspondence relationship between the content data associated with the block and the block. The block toy according to claim 11, wherein the toy block is associated with each piece of content data obtained by dividing predetermined content. The block toy according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the toy blocks are connected to each other in a beaded connection. The block toy according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the toy block has an identifier. The block control device collects the identifier from the block and identifies the connection order of the block, and the block control device further executes execution of content data associated with the block or the connection order according to the connection order. The block toy according to claim 14, which controls regeneration. The block toy according to claim 15, wherein the block control device identifies indent information of the block based on signal information. A block controller,
Connected to one or more toy blocks,
A block control device capable of replacing at least a part of the correspondence relationship between content data associated with the block and the block. A toy block in communication with the block controller according to claim 17. A software building block for building software by arranging in a predetermined positional relationship a plurality of blocks in which a software element is allocated to each block consisting of a plurality of basic blocks,
A plurality of passive transmitting / receiving elements disposed in each of the plurality of basic blocks, each of which is assigned an ID for specifying each passive transmitting / receiving element, and sends back the ID in response to a scan signal;
An active transmit / receive element that transmits the scan signal to the plurality of passive transmit / receive elements and receives the ID returned from the passive transmit / receive elements;
A control unit connected to the active transmission / reception element and having a storage unit for storing information on the plurality of passive transmission / reception elements;
Equipped with
Each of the passive transmitting and receiving elements is provided with a movable part movable by human force or by magnetic attraction or repulsion from a magnet provided in another block, and the position after movement of the movable part Communication with the active transmission / reception element is interrupted or communication is enabled, and the control unit detects which passive transmission / reception means of the plurality of passive transmission / reception means are sending back an ID, Software building block that determines the relative position of each block based on changes. The software construction block according to claim 19, wherein the control unit executes software based on the positional relationship of each block determined when an execution instruction is given. The software construction block according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the information on the passive transmission / reception element includes information on where in the block the basic block is located. The software construction block according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the information on the passive transmission / reception element includes information on which software element is allocated to which block of the plurality of blocks. The movable portion is provided with a shield, and when the shield is at a position close to a specific part of the passive transmitting and receiving means, communication with the active transmitting and receiving means is interrupted, and the shielding is provided for the passive transmitting and receiving 23. A software building block according to any one of the claims 19-22, wherein communication with the active transmitting and receiving means is enabled when away from a specific part of the means. The software building block according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the relative positional relationship includes a shift of a fixed width of a block. 25. The software building block according to claim 24, wherein the fixed width deviation corresponds to an indent when writing a computer program. 26. A software building block according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the active transmitting and receiving means is an RF reader and the passive transmitting and receiving element is an RF tag. A plurality of blocks provided with passive transmit / receive elements assigned an ID and sending back said ID in response to a scan signal;
An active transmit / receive element that transmits the scan signal to the passive transmit / receive element and receives the ID returned from the passive transmit / receive element;
Shielding means provided in each of the plurality of blocks, and blocking or releasing the communication between the passive transmitting / receiving element and the active transmitting / receiving element according to the position thereof;
A first magnet provided to the shielding means;
A second magnet provided in at least one of the plurality of blocks;
Equipped with
When the block provided with the second magnet is arranged adjacent to another block, the shielding means is moved by the magnetic interaction between the second magnet and the first magnet, and the shielding means is moved. Block device for blocking or releasing the communication between the passive transmit / receive element and the active transmit / receive element. 28. The block device of claim 27, wherein the active transmitting and receiving means is an RF reader and the passive transmitting and receiving element is an RF tag. Be a block toy,
An execution block associated with content data, which is part of content data, and a control block,
The execution block and the control block have a first surface and a second surface paired with the first surface,
The execution block and the control block have at least two or more first surface connectors in the first surface,
The execution block has at least one second surface connector in the second surface;
The control block has at least one second side connector on the second side;
At least one of the connectors of the first side of the control block receives at least one of the connectors of the second side of the executive block, and at least one of the connectors of the first side of the executive block Receives at least one of the connectors of the second side of the control block,
Block toy. The first plane and the second plane of the execution block and the control block respectively have an x-axis and a y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis,
The connector according to claim 29, wherein the execution block and the connector of the first side of the control block, and the connector of the execution block and the second side of the control block are aligned on a predetermined x axis. Block toy. A center line in the y-axis of the connector of the first surface of the execution block and the control block, and the connector of the second surface of the execution block and the control block corresponds to the first surface or the first surface 31. A block toy according to claim 30, wherein the block toy is coincident on the same straight line of the x-axis in two planes. The first surface of the execution block is arranged to move in the first direction on the x-axis with respect to the second surface of the control block, and at least one of the first connectors of the execution block 32. A block toy according to claim 30 or 31, wherein one receives at least one of the connectors of the second face of the control block. The first side of the first side of the control block or the other side of the execution block having the connector of the first side is the first direction on the x-axis with respect to the second side of the execution block And the connector of the first surface of the other execution block or at least one of the connectors of the first surface of the control block is arranged to move in a second direction which is the opposite direction of 33. A block toy according to any one of claims 30 to 32, receiving at least one of the connectors of the second side of the block. A center line in the y-axis of the connector of the first surface of the execution block and the control block, and the connector of the second surface of the execution block and the control block corresponds to the first surface or the first surface 32. The block toy of claim 31, wherein the block toy does not coincide with the center line of the y-axis in plane 2. The execution block and the connector of the first surface of the control block and the connector of the second surface have projections or recesses having a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, an asymmetric shape, and / or an asymmetric shape. , A block toy according to any one of claims 29 to 34. When the control block is disposed below the execution block, the position of the connector on the second surface of the control block is one direction on the y axis from the position of the connector on the second surface of the execution block The block toy according to any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the block toy is disposed at a position moved to. A first surface spaced in the opposite direction from the position on the first surface corresponding to the position of the connector of the second surface arranged most distant in one direction on the y-axis of the execution block 37. A block toy according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein in the position at, the execution block has no connector of the first surface. 38. A device connected to the block toy according to any one of claims 29 to 37 via wire or wireless, wherein the device detects connection of the execution block and the control block, and the execution is performed. The connection order of the block and the control block and the content data and control information associated with the execution block and the control block are identified. The apparatus according to claim 38 creates an instruction based on the content data and the control information, and performs a syntax check of the instruction. The control block and the execution block according to any one of claims 29 to 39 further include a connection restriction unit.

Images