Modular Construction Kit with Spring-Loaded Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current educational robotic construction kits are complex, hazardous for younger children, and limited in functionality due to varied module shapes and unreliable connectors, making them unsuitable for younger students.

Innovation Solution

A modular construction kit with standardized, easy-to-learn blocks featuring interface faces with recesses and connection apertures, and connectors with spring-loaded pins for secure connections, including programmable components like processors and wireless communication, allowing for autonomous operation and user-defined control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If modules are made small to increase construction possibilities, then the quantity and variety of constructions increase, but the modules become hazardous to younger children

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconstruction possibilitiesVSAvoidhazard to children

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The construction kit is divided into standardized modular blocks of safe sizes that can be combined in various configurations. Each block is sized to be safe for children while maintaining construction versatility through systematic segmentation of the overall system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Standardized blocks with universal connection interfaces allow a single block design to serve multiple construction purposes. The uniform size and connection method enable one block type to be used in numerous different constructions, eliminating the need for small specialized parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If modules have specific functions to increase capability, then the functionality of robots increases, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each modular block is designed with universal connection interfaces and can be programmed to perform different functions. Rather than having specialized connectors for each function type, a single standardized interface supports multiple functions through software control, reducing physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical differentiation with electronic programming. Instead of having different mechanical connectors for different functions, all blocks use the same physical interface, and functional differentiation is achieved through software commands sent to the blocks' embedded processors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If magnetic or mechanical connectors are used to connect modules, then the modules can be connected, but the connectors are complex and unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidconnector reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines electrical connection and mechanical attachment into a single integrated connector design. The connector simultaneously establishes both physical attachment and electrical contact, eliminating the need for separate magnetic or mechanical fastening mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity and failure points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized connector acts as an intermediary that simplifies the connection process. It provides a reliable, repeatable interface that handles both mechanical attachment and electrical connection in one action, mediating between the modular blocks and eliminating the need for complex alignment or multiple connection steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If varied module shapes are used to provide specific functions, then the functionality increases, but the difficulty to learn and construct increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidease to learn

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by giving each block specific sensor or actuator capabilities while maintaining a uniform overall shape and connection interface. The standardized exterior makes all blocks equally easy to handle and connect, while specialized functions are embedded locally within each block type, allowing children to focus on programming rather than figuring out different connection methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10758836B2Connecting structures in a modular construction kit

Publication Date: 2020.09.01 ROBO WUNDERKIND INC

AI summary

A modular construction kit includes modular construction blocks, each includes at least one interface face. The interface face includes a recess, a plurality of connection apertures disposed proximate to the edge of the recess, and a circular interface receptacle disposed in the center of the recess. The kit also includes modular construction connectors, each includes two opposite sides, wherein each side including a body, a plurality of connection studs extending outwardly from the body, and a protrusion extending outwardly from the body. Some modular construction blocks include predetermined functions. A modular system block includes at least a processor, storage, and wireless communication.