Embedded Compute Blocks for Programmable Physical Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction block kits lack the ability to programmatically control and interact with assembled models in a dynamic and user-friendly manner, limiting their functionality and creativity.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a model compute system embedded within physical construction blocks, capable of detecting assembled block configurations, executing program stacks based on associated rules, and communicating with an administration device to visualize and control the model's behavior, allowing for interactive and programmable physical programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If construction block kits are used to assemble models, then models and objects can be constructed with basic input/output functions, but the ability to programmatically control and interact with assembled models is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds compute systems, sensors, and communication modules within the construction blocks themselves. Each block contains embedded intelligence (microcontrollers, memory, processors) that enables autonomous decision-making and programmable control. This nesting approach allows complex functionality to be distributed across multiple blocks rather than requiring a centralized control system, thereby enhancing adaptability while managing device complexity through modular integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction blocks are designed with multi-functional capabilities including computation, sensing, communication, and actuation. The same block can serve multiple purposes: structural support, programmable control unit, sensor node, and communication relay. This universality allows users to create diverse programmed behaviors using the same set of blocks, significantly enhancing versatility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If basic input/output functions are implemented in construction blocks, then simple interactions are possible, but dynamic and user-friendly programming capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical user interface (GUI) that serves as an intermediary between the user and the embedded compute systems. The GUI provides visual programming tools, drag-and-drop interfaces, and intuitive controls that translate user-friendly actions into programmed instructions for the blocks. This intermediary layer shields users from the underlying programming complexity while enabling dynamic and flexible program creation, thereby improving ease of operation without sacrificing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical programming methods (physical block arrangements) with electronic and software-based control mechanisms. Instead of relying solely on physical configuration, the system uses embedded processors, memory storage for program instructions, and wireless communication to transmit and execute coded sequences. This substitution enables more sophisticated programming capabilities while maintaining user-friendly interaction through graphical interfaces and touch-based controls.
3Loss of information
If construction blocks are assembled into models, then physical structures are created, but real-time visualization and control of model behavior is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor model state (position, orientation, environmental conditions) and transmit this data to embedded compute systems. The GUI receives this feedback information and displays real-time visualizations of model behavior, program execution status, and sensor readings. This feedback loop enables users to observe and adjust model behavior dynamically, effectively eliminating information loss about model state while managing communication complexity through efficient data aggregation and wireless protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated modules: sensors are merged with compute systems, which are in turn merged with communication transceivers within each block. This consolidation reduces the overall communication infrastructure complexity by enabling blocks to relay information peer-to-peer rather than requiring centralized collection points. The GUI merges data from multiple blocks into unified visual representations, making model behavior visible without proportionally increasing communication system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies for physical programming include a model compute system to determine one or more physical blocks assembled in a constructed model. The model compute system determines rules associated with the one or more physical blocks in which at least one rule defines a behavior of the constructed model and determines a program stack for execution by the model compute system based on the rules associated with the one or more physical blocks.