Magnetic Modular Electronic Building System
Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic building kits are inaccessible and intimidating for non-experts, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise to create interactive objects, and fail to teach users how to create complex electronic devices relevant to their daily lives.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronic building system using pre-assembled printed circuit boards interconnected by small magnets, allowing users to combine modules for creating complex circuits without programming or electronics knowledge, featuring magnetic connectors for secure alignment and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electronic building kits are used, then electronic components and wiring are provided, but the system requires specialized knowledge and expertise, making it intimidating and inaccessible to non-experts
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic system is divided into discrete modular blocks, each containing pre-assembled electronic components and circuits. Users connect these blocks together to create functional systems, eliminating the need to work with individual components and wiring. This segmentation makes electronics accessible to non-experts while maintaining the ability to create complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic connectors serve as intermediaries between modular blocks, providing both mechanical attachment and electrical connection. These connectors simplify the interaction between blocks, allowing users to connect components without dealing with soldering or complex wiring, thus reducing the barrier to entry for non-experts.
2Ease of operation
If modular blocks with magnetic connectors are used, then ease of assembly and intuitive programming are improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple mounting members and alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and alignment guidance. By combining these functions, the system achieves intuitive assembly without requiring separate mounting members or complex alignment procedures, thus resolving the apparent contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic connector design provides universal compatibility across different block types while performing multiple functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized components needed and simplifies the user interface, making the system easier to operate despite the underlying complexity of the modular architecture.
3Loss of time
If pre-assembled printed circuit boards are used, then the time required for assembly is reduced, but the cost of manufacturing increases
Solution Approach 1:
Electronic components and circuits are pre-assembled onto printed circuit boards during manufacturing, creating ready-to-use modular blocks. This preliminary action significantly reduces assembly time for end users while allowing manufacturers to optimize the pre-assembly process for cost efficiency through automation and economies of scale.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular blocks are designed to be self-contained units with all necessary components and connections integrated. This self-service design allows blocks to be manufactured independently and assembled by users without requiring specialized tools or expertise, balancing reduced assembly time with manageable manufacturing costs.
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 users to intuitively program interactivity and create complex electronic devices, making electronics more accessible and relevant to everyday life, promoting learning and innovation.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic connector includes two magnets and three conductors embedded in an injection molded plastic body. The two magnets act as polarizing and locking elements
Implementation Method 2
The repelling polarities inhibit the magnets from connecting in an inappropriate manner to facilitate connecting of the modules in the correct manner
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
Electrical connectors, electrical modules, and systems are provided. In one aspect, an electrical connector includes a housing defining a side surface, an electrical conductor supported by the housing and including an engagement portion proximate the side surface of the housing. The engagement portion is adapted to engage another electrical conductor of another electrical connector. The connector also includes a magnet supported by the housing proximate the side surface of the housing, a projection extending from the side surface of the housing, and a receptacle defined in the side surface of the housing. In other aspects, an electrical module includes at least one of these electrical connectors. In further aspects, a system includes a plurality of these modules and the modules are selectively couplable together.