Building Block Linkage Element with Integrated Pivot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building block linkage systems face issues with stability and ease of assembly due to the risk of loosening of 'knuckle and pin' joints, which complicates the construction and storage of collapsible and expandable building blocks.
Innovation Solution
A building block linkage element featuring a stud with a slot and a link with integrated pivots made of the same material, allowing for a hinge-like structure that enables folding and expansion, reducing the number of parts and enhancing structural rigidity, while locks prevent unintended collapse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 'knuckle and pin' joints are used to connect side panels, then the linkage element can provide a hinge-like structure for attaching side panels, but the joints are made of at least three different parts which increases device complexity and the risk of loosening from side panels over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the knuckle and pin components into a single integrated linkage element. The link comprises a single piece of material that forms both the knuckle portions (which connect to studs) and the pin portion (which rotates within the slot), eliminating the need for separate knuckle parts and pin parts. This integration reduces the number of parts while maintaining the hinge-like rotational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the joint design. Instead of using separate fasteners (screws, bolts) to attach the linkage element to side panels, the linkage element itself is designed to be inserted and retained within the slot-stud structure. The slot in the stud and the corresponding features on the link create a self-retaining connection that eliminates the need for additional fastening components.
2Strength
If 'knuckle and pin' joints with screws or bolts are used to attach linkage elements to side panels, then the side panels can be securely connected, but there is a risk of loosening from the side panels over time
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage element is designed to be self-retaining within the slot-stud structure. The pin portion of the link rotates within the slot of the stud, and the geometry of the slot and pin creates a self-locking mechanism that prevents loosening over time. The connection maintains its strength without requiring separate fasteners that could loosen, as the integrated design ensures continuous engagement between the link and stud components.
3Ease of manufacture
If collapsible and expandable building blocks are made with multiple separate parts, then the linkage element can be assembled, but the space needed for storage and transportation is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage element is designed as a single integrated component rather than multiple separate parts. The link comprises a single piece of material that forms both the knuckle portions and the pin portion, eliminating the need for separate knuckle parts and pin parts. This integration significantly reduces the volume required for storage and transportation while maintaining the collapsible and expandable functionality of the building blocks.
4Ease of operation
If the pivot is made as a separate part attached to the link, then the link can be rotatably attached to the stud, but the number of parts increases and structural rigidity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot functionality is integrated directly into the link structure. The pin portion of the link itself serves as the rotational element, eliminating the need for a separate pivot component. This integration maintains structural rigidity while enabling the necessary rotational capability for the hinge-like connection between the link and stud.
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
The solution provides a robust, cost-effective, and easy-to-assemble building block system that can be custom-made, reducing storage and transportation space, and minimizing the risk of accidental collapse during construction.
Implementation Method 1
The pivot of the link, when inserted into the slot of the stud, functions as a hinge-like structure, thus, enabling the link to be pivoted.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The invention relates to a building block linkage element comprising at least a first stud (1) and a second stud (2) having longitudinal axis (X, X'), wherein the first stud (1) and the second stud (2) comprises at least one slot (21, 22), wherein at least one link (3) extends between the first stud (1) and the second stud (2) and is rotatably attached to the first stud (1) by means of at least one pivot (19, 20) and to the second stud (2) by means of at least one pivot (19, 20). The building block linkage element is suited for providing building blocks which are useful in the construction of walls.