Magnetic Fidget Device with Revolving Body and Channel

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handheld amusement and fidget devices are limited to binary patterns of movement, leading to user fatigue and a lack of engagement over time, as repetitive movements feel the same every time.

Innovation Solution

A novel manipulative device featuring a revolving body and housing with magnetic attraction and repulsion forces, allowing for a wide range of movements and tactile experiences through magnetic interaction, providing a unique and engaging user experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If binary pattern of movement is used in existing fidget devices, then the device structure is simple, but the user engagement duration is short due to repetitive movements feeling the same every time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoiduser engagement duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by enabling the revolving body to transition between multiple operational modes: it can rotate freely within the channel, be removed from the channel, or be positioned in different orientations. This dynamic versatility allows users to experience varied movements (rotation, removal, reinsertion, reorientation) rather than simple repetitive binary movements, thereby extending user engagement duration while maintaining relatively simple device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements Another dimension by adding the ability to remove and reinsert the revolving body from the channel, transforming the movement from a single-plane rotation to a multi-dimensional interaction. Users can now manipulate the device in three dimensions: rotating within the channel, removing along the channel axis, and reinserting at different positions or orientations. This dimensional expansion creates novel tactile experiences that prevent user fatigue and extend engagement time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If magnetic attraction is used to retain the revolving body in the channel, then the device provides tactile satisfaction through magnetic forces, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetactile satisfactionVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies Mechanics substitution by replacing traditional mechanical retention mechanisms (such as clips, latches, or friction-based systems) with magnetic attraction forces. The magnetic field provides a contactless, smooth retention force that holds the revolving body in the channel while allowing easy removal and reinsertion. This substitution creates a more elegant and tactilely satisfying user experience while avoiding complex mechanical components, thus improving ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 device offers a compact, hand-held solution that alleviates boredom, relieves anxiety, and promotes focused thinking by providing an extraordinary level of tactile satisfaction and varied movement experiences, keeping users engaged for longer periods.

Implementation Method 1

the revolving body may be removably coupled into contact with the housing via a magnetic attraction between the revolving body and the retaining body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

the first perimeter may be retained in the channel via the magnetic attraction between the revolving body and the retaining body so that the revolving body may be revolved around the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10913008B2Manipulative device
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 HAMEL JONATHAN
  • US10913008B2 patent drawing
  • US10913008B2 patent drawing
  • US10913008B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A manipulative device may include a revolving body, having a first perimeter, and a housing. The housing may comprise a retaining body, having a second perimeter, and the revolving body may be removably coupled to the housing via a magnetic attraction between the revolving body and the retaining body. A channel may be formed into the housing. The first perimeter may be movably received in the channel, and the first perimeter may be retained in the channel via the magnetic attraction between the revolving body and the retaining body. Optionally, the housing may comprise a receptacle which may be shaped to receive portions of the revolving body. A user may manipulate the revolving body and housing in one hand, experiencing both the attraction forces and the repelling forces of magnetically attracted objects thus achieving relief from boredom and anxiety or more focused thought and calm in meditation.