Modular Play Structure Kit with Interlocking Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional play structures are often expensive, difficult to set up and dismantle, and fail to capture children's attention due to their static nature, requiring a solution that is easy to assemble, disassemble, and transport while encouraging creativity.

Innovation Solution

A modular play structure kit comprising lightweight, interlocking panels made of washable and paintable plastic material, using a plug-in system with Velcro or rice tape for connection, allowing for versatile and expandable configurations, including wall, door, and roof panels, and additional stickers for customization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If traditional play structures are used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidease of assembly and disassembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The play structure is divided into modular panels that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each panel is a self-contained unit with standardized connection interfaces, allowing the structure to be built in segments and easily reconfigured or stored when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connection elements serve as intermediaries between panels, providing a simple mechanism for joining and separating structural components. These intermediaries enable easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity when connected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional play structures are used, then durability is improved, but cost deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the structure into standardized panels enables efficient manufacturing processes and reduces material waste. The modular design allows for economies of scale in production while maintaining durability through consistent quality control of each panel unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent specifies a thickness parameter of 1-20 mm for panels, optimizing the balance between durability and material cost. This parameter range ensures sufficient strength and longevity while controlling manufacturing expenses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If traditional play structures are used, then structural integrity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The modular panel system allows the play structure to be configured in multiple arrangements while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection methods. Panels can be repositioned or reconfigured to create different play scenarios without compromising strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized panels and connection elements serve multiple functions: they provide structural integrity when connected, allow easy reconfiguration for different play scenarios, and enable efficient storage when disassembled. The same components support both structural and adaptive requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Stability of the object's composition

If traditional play structures are used, then stability is improved, but portability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the play structure into separate panel modules, the system achieves stability when assembled while enabling portability through easy disassembly. Each panel can be individually handled, transported, and stored, reducing the overall portability burden compared to a monolithic structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 kit enables easy assembly and disassembly, provides a reusable canvas for creativity, and maintains children's interest through versatile play configurations, addressing the limitations of traditional play structures.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one connection system is formed by means of a plug-in system with a Velcro, rice tape, or plug-in tape

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVelcro: Velcro

Data Source

PatentUS20240416253A1Kit for modular play structure
Publication Date: 2024.12.19 IMAGINEW PLAYHOME GMBH
  • US20240416253A1 patent drawing
  • US20240416253A1 patent drawing
  • US20240416253A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a kit element, in particular wall and/or ceiling and/or roof panels, for detachable and non-destructive joining together, i.e. with at least one kit element of the same type, comprising at least one base element, in particular a wall and/or ceiling and/or roof panel, and at least one connecting system for detachable and non-destructive joining together, i.e. with at least one kit element of the same type, wherein the connecting system and/or connecting rails and/or connecting clips are formed by means of a plug-in system with a hook-and-loop fastener, a rice tape or a plug-in tape, so that two base elements can be connected to one another in a non-destructive manner.