Fusible Toy Bead Joint Member With Catch Recess

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for connecting fusible toy bead assemblies are complex and restrictive, requiring multiple projections or adhesives, which diminishes the enjoyment of creating and playing with these assemblies.

Innovation Solution

A fusible toy bead joint member with a flange portion, a shaft portion, and an insertion portion that forms a catch recess, allowing assemblies to be easily connected by inserting the insertion portion into an opening portion, eliminating the need for additional projections or adhesives.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If multiple projections or adhesives are used to connect fusible toy bead assemblies, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidconnection structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The joint member is divided into distinct functional segments: a shaft portion for insertion, a flange portion for support, and an insertion portion with catch recess for securing. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring complex multi-component systems or adhesives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using multiple projections that need to be inserted into corresponding holes (as in conventional block connectors), this invention uses a single insertion portion that is radially enlarged to be received within an opening of the fusible bead assembly. The catch recess formed by the flange, shaft, and insertion portion actively secures the assembly rather than relying on passive interference fits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If multiple projections or adhesives are used to connect fusible toy bead assemblies, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconnection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion portion with its radially enlarged end and catch recess is designed to self-secure within the opening of the fusible bead assembly. When inserted, the catch recess automatically engages with the assembly structure, providing reliable connection without requiring additional steps such as applying adhesives or aligning multiple projections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The catch recess is pre-formed by the combination of the flange portion, shaft portion, and radially enlarged insertion portion. This preliminary structural preparation ensures that upon insertion, the connection is immediately secured without requiring subsequent actions or complex alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If a radially enlarged insertion portion is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsertion easeVSAvoidradial dimension precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion portion features a radial dimension that is intentionally enlarged compared to the shaft portion. This parameter change creates a tolerance-friendly design where the radially larger end can be easily inserted into and secured within the opening of the fusible bead assembly, reducing sensitivity to precise dimensional control during manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 straightforward and secure connection of fusible toy bead assemblies, enhancing the play experience by simplifying the process and allowing for more creative combinations.

Implementation Method 1

the flange portion, the insertion portion and the shaft portion define a catch recess configured to catch an assembly of a plurality of fusible toy beads

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS10286331B2Fusible toy bead joint member
Publication Date: 2019.05.14 EPOCH COMPANY LTD
  • US10286331B2 patent drawing
  • US10286331B2 patent drawing
  • US10286331B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fusible toy bead joint member includes: a flange portion having a flat plate shape; a shaft portion provided to stand from the flange portion; and an insertion portion formed at an end of the shaft portion and formed to be radially larger than the shaft portion. The flange portion, the insertion portion and the shaft portion define a catch recess configured to catch an assembly of a plurality of fusible toy beads made of a water-soluble resin.