Electromagnetic Modular Connection System for Self-Structuring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies lack an efficient mechanism for self-structuring modular systems that enable rapid and adaptable connections, communication, and computing power, limiting the ability of modules to change shape, size, and perform multiple tasks effectively.

Innovation Solution

An electromagnetic connection and communication system with modules featuring pivoting legs, inductive communication, and a central processing unit that calculates spatial relationships to align and maintain connections, allowing modules to form various structures and move relative to each other.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If modules are designed with fixed configurations after manufacturing, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the overall device into independent modular units, each capable of performing specific functions. These modules can be manufactured separately with fixed configurations, then connected through electromagnetic interfaces to form adaptable composite systems, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universal electromagnetic connection interfaces and communication protocols that allow different module types to interconnect and work together. This enables a set of standardized modules to perform multiple functions through different configurations, achieving versatility without complicating individual module manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If devices are designed to be statically configured after manufacturing, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to change shape and perform multiple tasks deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidtask versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of device structures through movable and rotatable connections between modules. Modules can change their relative positions and orientations during operation, allowing the overall device to adapt its shape and functionality without requiring complex internal mechanisms within each module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection and control systems with electromagnetic fields for communication and coordination. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enabling more flexible and programmable control over device configuration and task execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If multiple separate devices are used for different tasks, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but device complexity and the number of components increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional optimizationVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges multiple functional devices into a unified modular platform where specialized modules can be combined in different configurations. Each module maintains its optimized function, but the electromagnetic connection system integrates them into a coordinated whole, reducing the total number of separate devices needed while preserving functional optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If modules are designed to move and reconfigure relative to each other, then adaptability and task versatility improve, but connection reliability and structural stability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electromagnetic communication system provides continuous feedback between modules about their positions, connection status, and operational parameters. This feedback enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of connection forces and alignment, maintaining connection reliability and structural stability even as modules move and reconfigure relative to each other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 flexible and efficient formation of structures, rapid reconfiguration, and enhanced adaptability by allowing modules to connect, communicate, and move within a matrix structure, improving task versatility and reducing the need for multiple tools and devices.

Implementation Method 1

Each module includes at least one inductor located on a connecting plate and adapted to communicate with one or more inductors located on a connecting plate of another module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8190293B2Electromagnetic communication and connection system for self structuring and computing modules
Publication Date: 2012.05.29 DESMOND NEIL
  • US8190293B2 patent drawing
  • US8190293B2 patent drawing
  • US8190293B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electromagnetic communication and connection system for self structuring and computing modules includes one or more inductors located on a connecting plate of a first module for communicating signals to one or more inductors located on a connecting plate of a second module. A computer processor and algorithm are utilized to calculate the spatial relationship of the two modules, and to facilitate alignment of respective connecting plates to achieve an aligned mechanical contact between the respective connecting plates. Once connected, a permanent or semi-permanent physical connection is maintained between the connecting plates and the modules may communicate with one another.