Magnet Embedding in Flexible Elastic Material Using Redesign Cup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic construction modules with flexible elastic bodies face issues with magnet embedding, leading to weak connections that can result in tearing of the material when force is applied, as adhesives fail to secure magnets effectively.
Innovation Solution
Embedding magnets in flexible elastic material using a redesigned cup with a smaller diameter, rounded edges, and a chamfered interior, which allows for a stronger connection by distributing force and preventing material tear, while maintaining flexibility and variability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If magnets are glued to an anchor using adhesive, then the assembly process is simple, but the adhesive is not strong enough and magnets pull away under force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming recesses in the flexible material before inserting the magnets. These recesses are created during the molding process, allowing the magnets to be securely embedded and held in place by the surrounding material, preventing them from pulling away under force while maintaining simple assembly.
2Strength
If magnets are structurally connected to an anchor, then connection strength is improved, but the anchor is pulled out as the silicone fails to secure it under force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating localized recesses in the flexible material specifically at the magnet insertion points. These recesses concentrate the structural support where needed, allowing the silicone to securely hold the magnets through the recess geometry rather than relying on the bulk material's strength throughout the entire anchor structure.
3Strength
If a magnet is placed in a cup structure, then connection strength is improved, but the flexible material tears around the outsides of the limbs where the cup edge rests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by replacing the sharp-edged cup structure with a rounded, dome-shaped recess. This curved geometry eliminates the sharp edges that concentrate stress and cause tearing, distributing the force more evenly across the flexible material while still providing secure magnet retention through the rounded containment shape.
4Strength
If the cup base is designed to hold the magnet securely, then magnet retention is improved, but the base tears where the magnet edge rests against the interior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by designing the recess with a rounded bottom surface that curves smoothly to accommodate the magnet. This curved base geometry prevents the magnet edge from resting against a sharp interior corner, distributing the contact force across a larger area and preventing the base material from tearing while maintaining secure magnet retention.
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 enhances the durability and connectivity of magnetic construction modules by ensuring secure attachment of magnets without material tear, allowing for easy connection and disconnection while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
magnets embedded in the ends of limbs, capable of connecting limbs on a single module to each other, or capable of connecting the module to a ferromagnetic surface or another module
Data Source
AI summary
A magnet is embedded in a flexible elastic material, providing a means of temporarily connecting the flexible elastic material to ferromagnetic objects. A rigid cup provides a container for anchoring the magnet in the flexible elastic material. The cup also provides a structure to bind with the flexible elastic material. The magnet rests in the base of the cup, which extends past the surface of the material, allowing the magnet's forces to extend outside the base of the cup. The remainder of the cup resides within the material.