Modular Hobby Robot Track Assembly with Hinged Segments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hobby robotic systems often employ non-modular track systems that cannot be easily modified or reconfigured, limiting their adaptability for different purposes.

Innovation Solution

A modular track system with a 24 mm pitch, adjustable length, and standard threaded fasteners (M4 bolts and nuts) for easy integration and reconfiguration, featuring traction components with rubber tread options and concealed drive mechanisms, allowing alignment with modular structure components like the 1120 Series U-Channel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If non-modular track systems are used, then structural strength is maintained, but adaptability and ease of reconfiguration deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The track system is divided into multiple individual track components that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each track component has connection portions with hinge joints that allow modular assembly, enabling the track system to be reconfigured for different purposes while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If modular track components with hinge joints are used, then ease of reconfiguration is improved, but connection strength may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of reconfigurationVSAvoidconnection strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge joints in the connection portions provide dynamic coupling between track components, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining sufficient connection strength during operation. The hinge mechanism enables controlled movement and reconfiguration while preserving structural integrity when the track is in its operational configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If standard threaded fasteners are used, then ease of manufacture and integration are improved, but precision of alignment may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Standard threaded fasteners are used in the connection portions of track components, providing universal compatibility and ease of manufacture. The hinge joint design incorporates alignment features that work with these standard fasteners to achieve sufficient alignment precision for hobby robotics applications, balancing manufacturing simplicity with functional requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20220315138A1Track assembly for hobby robotics

Publication Date: 2022.10.06 ROBOTZONE LLC

AI summary

A track system for hobby robotics is provided. The track system includes a first track component having a pair of lateral edges and a connection portion disposed at each lateral edge. The track system also includes a second track component having a pair of lateral edges and a connection portion disposed at each lateral edge. The first track component is hingedly coupled to the second track component at a respective connection portion of each of the first and second track components. An individual track component is also provided.