Magnetic Ball-and-Socket Joints for Construction Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction systems face limitations such as restricted connector compatibility and lack of rotation range control, making assembly difficult and costly.
Innovation Solution
A construction system utilizing interconnectable elements with magnetic and non-magnetic ball-and-socket joints, including neodymium-iron-boron magnets for rotation control, allows for versatile assembly and rotation limitation through spherical expansions and recesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic ball-and-socket joints are used for construction elements, then ease of assembly and rotation control are improved, but device complexity increases due to integration of magnetic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines magnetic attraction and mechanical ball-and-socket joint functions into a single integrated connection mechanism. The magnetic ball is embedded within the socket structure, merging the holding force (magnetic) and the mechanical constraint (ball-and-socket geometry) into one unified component that simplifies assembly while controlling rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic ball acts as an intermediary element that mediates between two construction elements. It provides automatic alignment and attraction force during assembly, while its spherical geometry and the socket's structural design simultaneously control the range of rotation, thus simplifying the assembly process without excessive complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connector compatibility is expanded across different connector types, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic ball-and-socket joint is designed with universal compatibility features. The spherical magnetic ball can engage with various socket configurations, and the magnetic attraction provides a consistent engagement mechanism across different connector types. This universal design allows different construction elements to be interconnected while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized magnetic and geometric tolerances.
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 easy, cost-effective assembly with controlled rotation ranges, suitable for various applications including toys, educational tools, and architectural structures.
Implementation Method 1
employing a plurality of individual construction elements that may be fitted together by way of magnetic and non-magnetic ball-and-socket joints
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3A~3E
Figure 4~8
AI summary
An interconnectable construction element has a body section, a first socket coupled to a first end of the body section, and a magnetic ball. The first socket has a recess in communication with an opening. The opening extends from a first lateral side of the first socket at least to a distal end thereof. The magnetic ball is individually rotatably receivable into the recess of the first socket for forming a magnetic connection with another interconnectable construction element having another magnetic ball.