Modular Air-Driven Toy Track for Jam-Resistant Object Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing children's toys that move objects require complex pneumatic sources separate from the toy and can cause objects to become lodged during travel.
Innovation Solution
An air driven toy building set with a fluid flow generator and modular connectible sections that propel objects through the sections using an air flow generator, allowing easy coupling and decoupling of components and varying airflow paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a complex pneumatic source is used to propel objects, then the propulsion capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pneumatic source directly into the toy vehicle itself, merging the propulsion system with the vehicle body. This eliminates the need for separate external pneumatic sources and complex piping systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective propulsion capability through the integrated air chamber and nozzle arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The toy vehicle is designed to generate its own propulsion through integrated pneumatic chambers that can be inflated directly by the user. The vehicle serves its own propulsion needs without requiring external pneumatic infrastructure, reducing system complexity while maintaining effective propulsion through self-contained air storage and release mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If objects travel through fixed paths, then the propulsion mechanism is simple, but objects may become lodged during travel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the travel path into multiple independent segments or lanes within the toy structure. Objects can travel through different segmented paths, reducing the likelihood of lodging by providing alternative routes. The segmentation allows objects to be distributed across multiple channels rather than constrained to a single fixed path.
Solution Approach 2:
The toy incorporates dynamic elements such as movable flaps, rotating components, or adjustable barriers that can change the travel path during operation. This dynamic adjustment prevents objects from becoming lodged by actively managing flow distribution and creating varying path configurations that adapt to object movement patterns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular connectible sections are used, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The toy is divided into standardized modular sections with uniform connection interfaces. Each module can be independently manufactured and then assembled in various configurations. The segmentation enables high adaptability while controlling complexity through standardization of connection mechanisms and interface designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections are designed with universal connection features that allow the same module to serve multiple functions and connect to different module types. This universality provides configuration flexibility and adaptability while reducing the number of unique connection designs needed, thereby controlling overall device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and versatile object propulsion with reduced lodging risk, supporting educational and entertaining functions through modular configurations and integrated airflow control.
Implementation Method 1
an air flow generator configured to provide a flow of fluid, receive an object, and project the object out of the air flow generator via the flow of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
An air driven toy includes at least one connectible section that is removably couplable to an air flow generator to receive the object and defines at least one path for fluid flow through the at least one connectible section, wherein the air flow generator is configured to cause the object to be propelled through the at least one connectible section.