Modular Ball Track System Segmentation and Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball track systems lack versatility in track configurations, are complex to assemble and disassemble, and are costly to produce in large quantities.
Innovation Solution
A modular ball track system composed of disk-shaped module elements with a regular polygon exterior shape, featuring a plug base or recess on the lower face that aligns with a grid dimension corresponding to the incircle diameter, allowing for seamless connection and disconnection without additional fastening, along with connecting rails and column elements for varied configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ball track systems use complex connecting mechanisms and fastening elements, then the stability and reliability of the track structure is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ball track system is divided into modular track sections that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each module contains integrated connection features that simplify assembly while maintaining structural integrity. This segmentation allows complex track layouts to be built from simple, standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection features are merged directly into the track section bodies themselves, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements. The track sections incorporate built-in interlocking mechanisms that provide both connection functionality and structural stability without adding external complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional ball track systems use multiple fastening elements and complex connection mechanisms, then the stability of the track structure is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The track system uses segmented modules with integrated connection features that can be quickly assembled by simply joining the modular sections together. The segmentation allows for tool-free assembly while maintaining structural stability through the interlocking design of the modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The track sections are designed with self-aligning and self-locking connection features that automatically engage when modules are brought together. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual fastening operations while ensuring reliable connection and structural stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ball track systems are designed for versatility in track configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball track system uses universal modular sections that can be arranged in multiple configurations to create various track layouts. Each standardized module can serve multiple functions depending on its orientation and combination with other modules, providing high adaptability without requiring specialized components for different track types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves versatility through parameter variations in the modular design, such as different orientations, rotations, and combinations of the same basic module type. By changing the arrangement parameters rather than the module itself, the system provides diverse track configurations while maintaining simple, cost-effective manufacturing of standardized components.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular ball track system, comprising the following: a plurality of module elements (12; 12′), the exterior shape of all of which is the same regular polygon in plan view and each of which has—an upper face (14), a lower face (16) opposite the upper face, and—a number of lateral surfaces (18), said number corresponding to the number of corners of said module element, wherein each module element (12; 12′) forms at least one section (20, 22) of a ball track on the upper face (14) of the module element, said section passing through a lateral surface (18) of the module element, and a plug socket (24) protrudes from each module element (12; 12′) on the lower face (16) of the module element, and—a base (32) with a plurality of uniformly arranged recesses (34) for receiving a respective plug socket (24), wherein the plurality of recesses (34) are arranged on the base (32) in a grid, the size (s) of the grid corresponds to the incircle diameter of the regular polygon which forms the exterior shape of the module element, and module elements (12; 12′) plugged into directly adjacently lying recesses (34) of the base (32) abut one another in a flush manner at a respective lateral surface (18).