Magnetic Track Segments for Vertical Ball Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular wall tracks for rolling balls are often flimsy, difficult to manufacture inexpensively, and prone to the ball flying off the track, lacking a durable and cost-effective solution for attachment to vertical surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic connectors and coupled track segments that utilize 3D printing to create durable, customizable track configurations with embedded high-strength neodymium magnets for secure attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces, reducing material usage and eliminating the need for adhesives, allowing for various track designs and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional wall-mounted track assemblies are used, then the track can be mounted on vertical surfaces, but the assembly becomes flimsy and difficult to manufacture inexpensively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment systems (screws, adhesives, complex fasteners) with a magnetic attachment system. The magnetic connector uses embedded magnets to provide strong holding force against vertical surfaces, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assembly methods while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the attachment mechanism from mechanical to magnetic field-based interaction. By utilizing magnetic field strength as the attachment parameter, the system achieves strong vertical surface mounting without requiring complex mechanical structures, thereby improving both strength and ease of manufacture.
2Reliability
If traditional track designs are used, then the track can be assembled, but the ball often flies off the track
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical ball-retention mechanisms (clamps, covers, intricate track edges) with a magnetic field-based retention system. The embedded magnets create a magnetic field that holds the ball on the track, providing reliable ball retention while simplifying the overall track structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary force between the track and the ball. Instead of direct mechanical contact and constraint, the magnetic field mediates the interaction, holding the ball in place through magnetic attraction while allowing smooth rolling motion along the track.
3Strength
If adhesive-based attachment methods are used, then the track can be mounted on surfaces, but the manufacturing cost increases and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes adhesive-based attachment with a magnetic attachment system. The magnets provide strong holding force without requiring adhesives, eliminating the associated costs and aesthetic compromises while maintaining or improving attachment strength to vertical surfaces.
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 durable, cost-effective, and customizable track system that securely holds balls in place across different dynamic loads, enabling efficient and safe operation with reduced manufacturing costs and cleaner aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic connectors and coupled track segments for rolling balls down a vertical surface
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a track segment including a channel for holding a rolling object, a first connector attachable to a first end of the track segment, and a second connector attachable to a second end of the track segment. Each of the first connector and the second connector include one or more magnets embedded therein that enable attaching the first connector and the second connector to a ferromagnetic surface.