'Other' Constructional and Allied Systems Info & Downloads
Database of Metal Constructions Systems
Alongside his Other Systems Newsletter (OSN) Tony Knowles has produced a database of all known Metal Constructional Systems and their most important parameters. By his kind permission, his database is now also available on this website. You can search this database using a number of different parameters as shown below. Note that more than one parameter can be selected at the same time.
Note that the bug which prevented results being displayed when a date range was selected has now been fixed.
Select Type of System
Select Country
Select a Date Range
Select Materials
Shows all orders/combinations of materials.
N.B. Where there are several materials these are in order of importance
Select N&B Thread Size
Shows each thread size separately and also at the bottom it shows available combinations for searching
Select Boss type
Select Boss Thread
Shows all Boss threads in the database.
Select Gear Diametrical Pitch
Select Hole Pitch
Select Strip Hole Size
Select Axle Rod Diameter
1314 Systems Found - will be displayed up to 40 systems per page.
[100] [ART] [BAY] [BOY] [CAM] [CON] [COS] [DER] [EIF] [ERE] [FAL] [GIO] [IDÃ] [JOL] [KOM] [KON] [LE ] [MAK] [MEC] [MEC] [MET] [MET] [MIN] [MUS] [NEV] [PIO] [QUI] [SEL] [STA] [TAK] [TEK] [TRI] [WAL]
SYSTEM NAME : IDÉAL MÉCANIQUE [b]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
France
France
Dates
after World War Two
after World War Two
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
4x.75
4x.75
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
4x.75
4x.75
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
25 (see comment *1)
25 (see comment *1)
No. of Parts in System
44
44
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.0
12.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1
4.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
(see comment *2)
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
(see comment *2)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
6.5
6.5
Bolt diameter (mm)
6.6
6.6
Comments
Parts as ]a] but with bore, thread, etc changed. Structural parts anodised red, Pulleys etc natural aluminium. B&W photo of boy with model inside wood lid . *1 Calculated as Mod 1. *2 Some Nuts bright zinc plated steel.
SYSTEM NAME : IK BOUW / JE CONSTRUIS
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Temsi
Temsi
System Type
Very like Meccano
Very like Meccano
Country
Belgium
Belgium
Dates
1980s
1980s
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
38
38
No. of Parts in System
84
84
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Bilingual names. Apparently TEMSI parts. Said to have succeeded SPIROU.
SYSTEM NAME : IL BALILLA MECCANICO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
1930s (some significant doubt)
1930s (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
3x (some significant doubt)
3x (some significant doubt)
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
10 (see comment *1)
10 (see comment *1)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
6.0 (see comment *2)
6.0 (see comment *2)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.0 (see comment *3)
3.0 (see comment *3)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
(Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
(Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
with a Brass finish
with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Only add-on Set 'A' known with simple nickelled parts in wooden box with routered out compartments. *1 In set 'A'. *2*3 Scaled dimensions.
SYSTEM NAME : IL CARPENTIERE
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
World War Two (some significant doubt)
World War Two (some significant doubt)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
M5
M5
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
26
26
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
5.2 (see comment *1)
5.2 (see comment *1)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1
4.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Nuts: --
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
(see comment *3)
-- with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
(see comment *3)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.0(see comment *4)
5.0(see comment *4)
Comments
4mm Rods joined by Couplings. The latter 8mm square, 2 & 3 holes long, with all holes tapped. Other parts including 98mm square, cast, Slew Bearing Plates, 2½cm wide Strips, Road Wheels, small Plys. *1Also 4.5. *2*3*4Set Screw. Also - steel, - aluminium, 8.1.
SYSTEM NAME : IL CARPENTIERE MODERNO
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
1950s (some significant doubt)
1950s (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
not tapped
not tapped
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
12 (see comment *1)
12 (see comment *1)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
---
---
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Steel Tubes (or Rods) of perhaps 5½mm diameter held by (push-on?) Connectors, plus Loose Pulleys, for framework models. *1 Very approximately in the one set seen on Ebay.
SYSTEM NAME : IL CONSTRUTTORE MECCANICO*
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Braglia
Braglia
System Type
MECCANO & MÄRKLIN features
MECCANO & MÄRKLIN features
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
*1 or IL CONSTRUTTORE BRAL. Another name for BRAL, q.v., with the same parts as far as is known.
SYSTEM NAME : IL MECCANICO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences (probably)
Meccano principle but sig. differences (probably)
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
Boss Type
tapped
tapped
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
31 (see comment *1)
31 (see comment *1)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
(see comment *2)
(see comment *2)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *3)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *3)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Bright plated finish
Steel with a Bright plated finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Sets with name Standa, a supermarket chain, on lids. Slightly unusual 4x7h Plate. *1 In Set 2 of 4. *2 Around ½". *3 Also round head Bolts.
SYSTEM NAME : IL MECCANICO 900
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Very like Meccano
Very like Meccano
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
1940s
1940s
Material
Metal
Metal
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
80 (see comment *1)
80 (see comment *1)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Known only from a No.4 manual seen on Ebay. It was made by SART of Torino and had Sets 0-7. Many of the parts look similar to MECCANO. *1 At least, probably more including Wheels & Gears.
SYSTEM NAME : IL METALTECNICO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
Material
Metal
Metal
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
26
26
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Only a manual known. Cover has boy, Drilling Machine, & blueprints. Small 'educational?' set with some Slotted Strips & irregularly spaced slots, of various length, in Flanged Plate.
SYSTEM NAME : IL PICCOLO MECCANICO
CommentsSee FALT.
SYSTEM NAME : IMBRICA
Maker
System Type
Buildings
Buildings
Country
France
France
Dates
1920s (some significant doubt)
1920s (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
25
25
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
---
---
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Similar to WENEBRIK but not compatible.
SYSTEM NAME : IMPERATOR
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Richter
Richter
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1913 to early 1920s (see comment *1)
1913 to early 1920s (see comment *1)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
not tapped
not tapped
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
31
31
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.5
3.5
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Strips 5mm wide, 2-7"long, clip into Hubs 20mm Across flats. *1 Listed '19, but 'not available' in '25 catalogue. Also sold as ANKER-METALL, -INGENIEUR, INGENIEUR, ANCHOR ENGINEER.
SYSTEM NAME : INDUSTRIE
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1919 to 1935
1919 to 1935
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
18 (see comment *1)
18 (see comment *1)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
15.0
15.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
5.1
5.1
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: wing
Bolts: dome (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Nuts: wing
Bolts: dome (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
12mm wide Strips, small Spoked Wheels. Note Wing Nuts but Snap Fasteners (poppers?) may have been used earlier, perhaps up to 1925.. Some models as PHANTASIE. *1 Probably more.
SYSTEM NAME : INGENIERIA MECANICA INFANTIL,(Juego de)
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Certain Argentinean and Hole pitch <12.7mm
Certain Argentinean and Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Argentina
Argentina
Dates
circa 1945 (some significant doubt) to circa 1955 (some significant doubt)
circa 1945 (some significant doubt) to circa 1955 (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
5/32
5/32
Boss Type
tapped
tapped
Boss Thread
1/8"
1/8"
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
64
64
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.0 (probably)
10.0 (probably)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.0 (probably)
4.0 (probably)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Mostly MECCANO-like parts except 10mm pitch & all round holes except M215. Unusual parts: 11 holes Flanged Sector Plate; 7 holes Trunnions; 13,17,21,29h Strips; 29h Angle Girder; 13x3,5 holes Flex Plates; 5x9h & 5x13h Flanged Plate.
SYSTEM NAME : INGENIEUR [1]
Maker
Richter
Richter
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Another name for IMPERATOR q.v. Also sold as ANKER-METALL, -INGENIEUR. Dates from IMPERATOR.
SYSTEM NAME : INGENIEUR [2]
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
circa 1919
circa 1919
Material
Metal
Metal
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Ref: Eisenzeit p178. Made by Ihag GmbH, Nürnberg.
SYSTEM NAME : INGENIO [3]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
known in 1948 (see comment *1)
known in 1948 (see comment *1)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M3
M3
Boss Type
push fit
push fit
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
9.0 (see comment *2)
9.0 (see comment *2)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.4
3.4
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.2
3.2
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Steel finish
Steel with a Steel finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
6.0
6.0
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.4
5.4
Comments
White & red Plates, plus ¼ circular parts, which slide together to make 'cubical' models & vehicles. *1 ? from 1930s. *2 Also 5.5mm.
SYSTEM NAME : INGENIØRSAET
Maker
System Type
as EITECH/CONSTRUCTION
as EITECH/CONSTRUCTION
Country
Sweden
Sweden
Dates
known in 1980s
known in 1980s
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
CONSTRUCTION [1] sets sold under this name in Sweden.
SYSTEM NAME : INGÉNIOR
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
France
France
Dates
late 1940s
late 1940s
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
No other details.
SYSTEM NAME : INGÉNIO [1]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
France
France
Dates
early 1920s
early 1920s
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.3
12.3
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Parts appear to include a Plate with large central holes rather like STRUC, & some very decorative architectural panels. Manual cover has boy & girl with models on a table.
SYSTEM NAME : INGÉNIO [2]
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
France
France
Dates
1948
1948
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Name & date only.
SYSTEM NAME : INGÉNIUM
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
France
France
Dates
1947 to 1955
1947 to 1955
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
4x.75
4x.75
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
4x.75
4x.75
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
33
33
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.0
12.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.1 (see comment *1)
4.1 (see comment *1)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.0
4.0
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
White metallic with a Red metallic finish
White metallic with a Red metallic finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.1
7.1
Bolt diameter (mm)
7.0(mean)
7.0(mean)
Comments
Has 27-hole Strips. Other parts include a 12 holes Strip, & Flanged Plates 5 & 10 holes long. Blue lid has slanting white name with red bands above & below. *1 3.8 also reported.
SYSTEM NAME : INNOR
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Electrical/science
Electrical/science
Country
France
France
Dates
1950s
1950s
Material
Steel / Card
Steel / Card
Thread
2x
2x
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
10
10
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
2.5 (see comment *1)
2.5 (see comment *1)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
with a Brass finish
with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Parts to make a very simple Motor mounted on the box lid. Motor's name in instructions; maker not known. *1 Rotor shaft with one end 1.5mm diameter.
SYSTEM NAME : INSTRUCT-O-SCALE
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
known in 1946 (see comment *1)
known in 1946 (see comment *1)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
8 (see comment *2)
8 (see comment *2)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
1.6
1.6
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
I Beams, Gussets, etc riveted together to make Bridges & the like. *1 From Ebay. *2 Plus Tools.
SYSTEM NAME : INSTRUCTO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
USA
USA
Dates
circa 1920 (some significant doubt)
circa 1920 (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
16
16
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
(hole pitch, only for holes in wheels or discs.)
(hole pitch, only for holes in wheels or discs.)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
---
---
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
6.4 (see comment *1)
6.4 (see comment *1)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
¼" rolled Tubes push into/onto Connectors. 8-spoke Connector can carry Tyre. Infill card Plates in known set may not be original. *1 Nominal diameter of Tube, also used as axle.
SYSTEM NAME : INVENTOR
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
Czechoslovkia / Czech Republic
Czechoslovkia / Czech Republic
Dates
1920 to 1925
1920 to 1925
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
(see comment *1)
(see comment *1)
Boss Type
(see comment *2)
(see comment *2)
Boss Thread
---
---
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
47
47
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
23.0 (see comment *3)
23.0 (see comment *3)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
(Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
(Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts:
()
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts:
()
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Greyish Strips & Angle Girders, most with equispaced pushed thru 10mm long 'eyelets', & most with hooked ends which can engage in the eyelets. *1 Only on some Rod ends *2& in Wheel bores. *3Scaled eyelet pitch.
SYSTEM NAME : INVENTRIX
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
STABIL type
STABIL type
Country
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Dates
1946 to 1958 (see comment *1)
1946 to 1958 (see comment *1)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
M4
M4
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
40
40
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.5
12.5
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.1 (mean)
4.1 (mean)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1 (mean)
4.1 (mean)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: mush (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Nuts: square
Bolts: mush (slotted)
(see comment *2)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Steel finish
Steel with a Steel finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
8.0(mean)
8.0(mean)
Bolt diameter (mm)
7.3(mean)
7.3(mean)
Comments
Based on dull grey parts in German sets & painted parts in #3 set from Inventrix Ltd, Liverpool (as MCS). Some parts like STABIL. *1 for firm. *2*3 Long Bolts slotted cheesehead 7.2. (GE: hex nut & round slotted bolt 7.9 6.9 (long Bolts 7.3)).
SYSTEM NAME : INVICTA
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
as TRIX (inc MCX)
as TRIX (inc MCX)
Country
Spain
Spain
Dates
1933 to known in early 1940s
1933 to known in early 1940s
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
3.5x.8
3.5x.8
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
14
14
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
7.8 (see comment *1)
7.8 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.7
3.7
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Brass finish
Steel with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
6.4
6.4
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.1
5.1
Comments
cf GOLIATH. V-pattern holes in Strips. Box lid has curly haired child with Aeroplane. *1 10.5 in Wheel Discs.
SYSTEM NAME : IOHOCTb
CommentsName in MCS for YUNOST'.
SYSTEM NAME : IRON CONSTRUCTER, THE
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
1894 (see comment *1)
1894 (see comment *1)
Material
Brass / Wood
Brass / Wood
Thread
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
10 (approximately)
10 (approximately)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
1.8
1.8
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: See comment *2
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: See comment *2
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Brass with a Brass finish
Brass with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
(see comment *3)
(see comment *3)
Comments
Strips, etc with holes to allow braced frameworks to be made with Tie Rods, etc. *1 Also patented in 1894. *2*3 tappered cheese Bolt with thread on sides of leg only, to allow finger tightening.
SYSTEM NAME : IRON CONSTRUCTER AND DEMONSTRATOR, (THE PRACTICAL)
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
1995
1995
Material
Brass / Wood
Brass / Wood
Thread
2x
2x
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
12
12
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
1.8
1.8
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: round
Bolts: See comment *1
Nuts: round
Bolts: See comment *1
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Brass with a Brass finish
Brass with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
(see comment *2)
(see comment *2)
Comments
Development of THE IRON CONSTRUCTER with simplified parts. *1*2 tappered cheese Bolt with thread on sides of leg only.
SYSTEM NAME : ITALMECC
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
MECCANO & MÄRKLIN features
MECCANO & MÄRKLIN features
Country
Italy
Italy
Dates
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7 (see comment *1)
12.7 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
R/g MECCANO-like with a few MÄRKLIN-like parts, including 5x11h Flanged Plate. 1" Pulleys appear to be cast & painted blue. *1 ½" pitch not confirmed..
SYSTEM NAME : JACK / JILL DANDY CONSTRUCTION SET
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
known in 1949 (some significant doubt)
known in 1949 (some significant doubt)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
5-40;¼x20
5-40;¼x20
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
15
15
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.9
3.9
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
(see comment *1)
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
(see comment *1)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.8
7.8
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.7
5.7
Comments
2 names on canister: JACK/JILL DANDY CONSTRUCTION SET. Parts include a Double Angle Strip with threaded centre hole for threaded Crank Handle. Canister used in some models. *1 plain steel or dull plated steel Nut.
SYSTEM NAME : JE CONSTRUIS / IK BOUW
Maker
System Type
Country
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
See IK BOUW / JE CONSTRUIS
SYSTEM NAME : JEEP AUTO
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
Belgium
Belgium
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Name only.
SYSTEM NAME : JEP, JE-IL, JIEL
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Very like Meccano
Very like Meccano
Country
Korea
Korea
Dates
circa 1980 to in production in 2017 and continuing
circa 1980 to in production in 2017 and continuing
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
double-tapped
double-tapped
Boss Thread
M4
M4
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
38
38
No. of Parts in System
144
144
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.3
4.3
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Black metallic finish
(see comment *1)
Steel with a Black metallic finish
(see comment *1)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
6.9
6.9
Bolt diameter (mm)
SM
SM
Comments
Basic parts identical to MECCANO, but original parts added later. Sets include No.4 Army. JEP is English market name; JE-IL, JIEL from Korean. *1 Known for Army, probably iridescent or brass for other sets.
SYSTEM NAME : JEU FAIT TOUT
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
France
France
Dates
known in circa 1935
known in circa 1935
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Name only.
SYSTEM NAME : JEULIN
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
MECCANO
MECCANO
Country
France
France
Dates
1963 to 1970
1963 to 1970
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Boss Type
double-tapped
double-tapped
Boss Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
38
38
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *1)
Nuts: square
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *1)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Brass finish
(see comment *2)
Steel with a Brass finish
(see comment *2)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
6.4(see comment *3)
6.4(see comment *3)
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.5(see comment *4)
5.5(see comment *4)
Comments
4 sets made by Jeulin for schools etc with standard & Eletrical French blue/gold MECCANO parts plus a few others, eg Hooks, Weights. *1*2*3*4 assumed as MECCANO.
SYSTEM NAME : JIFFY BUILDER
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
USA
USA
Dates
after World War Two
after World War Two
Material
Thread
4-48 (see comment *1)
4-48 (see comment *1)
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
9
9
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.5
3.5
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
2.9 (see comment *2)
2.9 (see comment *2)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Dull plated finish
(see comment *3)
Steel with a Dull plated finish
(see comment *3)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
4.7(see comment *4)
4.7(see comment *4)
Bolt diameter (mm)
4.9(see comment *5)
4.9(see comment *5)
Comments
Very like GIRDER-BILT, & in very similar canister but red/green. *1 Also? 4-?. *2 In hard, red rubber Wheel. *3*4*5 Also Bolt dull plated steel 5.1 diameter, Nut nickel plated brass 5.7 Across flats.
SYSTEM NAME : JOC MECANO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Very like Meccano
Very like Meccano
Country
Romania
Romania
Dates
circa 1970
circa 1970
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
*
*
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
25
25
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7 (see comment *1)
12.7 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.3 (mean)
4.3 (mean)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.0
4.0
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.9
3.9
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: pan (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: pan (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Iridescent finish
Steel with a Iridescent finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.0
7.0
Bolt diameter (mm)
7.6
7.6
Comments
From hanging pack set. PIONIERUL CONSTRUCTOR [a] from same Metaloglobus firm; both feature Lorry. Parts range similar to PIONIERUL CONSTRUCTOR [b] but multicolour & aside from hole pitch only a few the same (eg, green plastic Wheel). *1Self-tapper. *212.5-13.0; 13 also reported.