Interference Joint Digits for Reconfigurable Building Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable structures, such as the Hoberman sphere, are limited to a single degree of freedom and lack the versatility and playability of reconfigurable assemblies with multiple degrees of freedom.
Innovation Solution
The development of toys comprising fidgets, building elements, and assemblies that include 'digits' and 'hubs', allowing for multiple degrees of freedom, where each digit can be independently transitioned between fully open, fully closed, and intermediate configurations, producing a tactile snapping or popping response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single degree of freedom structure like Hoberman sphere is used, then the structure is simple to manufacture and operate, but the versatility and playability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into multiple independent digits, each capable of individual manipulation. Each digit consists of segments that can be independently transitioned between open and closed configurations, allowing the overall structure to achieve multiple degrees of freedom while maintaining simple individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The digits are designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, transitioning between fully open, fully closed, and intermediate configurations. This dynamic capability allows the structure to adapt to various forms and functions, significantly increasing versatility without requiring complex fixed mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple degrees of freedom are implemented with independently manipulable digits, then versatility and playability are significantly enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex reconfigurable structure is achieved through segmentation into multiple identical or similar digit modules. Each digit is a self-contained unit with its own segments and joints, allowing the complex overall behavior to emerge from simple repeated units rather than a single complex mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The digit segments are designed to nest within each other when closed, with segments fitting inside one another in a telescoping arrangement. This nesting principle allows the digits to achieve compact closed configurations while maintaining the capability for multiple expansion states, effectively managing the complexity of reconfigurability
Data Source
AI summary
Toys, building sets, and toy assemblies are provided which include at least one digit or digit toy. Each digit toy includes a first segment and a second segment connected by a joint comprising a living hinge. Interference members of the joint interfere as the joint transitions between a first state (e.g., an extension state) and a second state (e.g., a flexion state). The first segment and the second segment each optionally include a first retention feature disposed on a same first side thereof, wherein the first retention features reversibly stabilize the first segment to the second segment in the second state.