Modular Framing System for Stable Stackable Construction-Set Floors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toy construction sets lack stability, the ability to construct large structures both vertically and horizontally, and do not allow for the creation of stand-alone floor units, making construction cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A framing system comprising interlocking and interchangeable components, including central units, tie beam corner units, and curved beam units, which can form stable, stand-alone floors that can be stacked to create various three-dimensional structures, and are adaptable to receive additional components like cladding and exterior features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional toy construction sets are used, then construction is simple, but stability and support are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The construction set is divided into modular components including central units, corner units, and intermediate units that can be assembled in various configurations. Each module contains standardized connection points (studs and recesses) that enable stable interlocking while maintaining simplicity of use.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are combined into single components. For example, corner units integrate both corner structural support and connection points for multiple directions, while central units combine vertical support with horizontal connection capabilities, reducing the total number of parts needed while increasing stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional toy construction sets are used, then components are few, but the ability to construct large structures vertically and horizontally is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Each component type (central unit, corner unit, intermediate unit) is designed to serve multiple functions. Central units provide vertical support, horizontal connection points, and stacking capability. Corner units provide structural corners, connection points in multiple directions, and stacking ability. This multi-functionality allows construction of large vertical and horizontal structures using a limited set of reusable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables construction in multiple dimensions simultaneously. Components are designed with connection points that allow assembly in horizontal planes (for wide structures) and vertical stacking (for tall structures). The standardized interface allows the same components to function in both horizontal and vertical orientations, expanding construction capability without increasing component quantity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional toy construction sets are used, then assembly is straightforward, but the ability to create stand-alone floor units is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into complete floor unit assemblies, where each floor consists of a central unit, corner units, and intermediate units connected in a standardized configuration. This segmentation allows floors to be constructed as complete, stable units that can stand independently or be stacked with other floors, enabling efficient construction of multi-story structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Floor units are designed to be assembled in advance as complete, stable modules before being stacked with other floors. The connection points and structural design allow each floor to be pre-assembled and tested for stability, then quickly stacked with other floors using the standardized vertical connection interface, improving construction efficiency.
4Reliability
If conventional toy construction sets are used, then coupling arrangements are basic, but secure coupling for large structures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into standardized connection points (studs) and corresponding recesses distributed throughout each component. This segmentation creates multiple discrete coupling points that distribute structural loads across many small connections rather than relying on a few large joints, increasing overall coupling security while keeping each individual connection simple.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple coupling functions are merged into the standardized stud-and-recess interface. The same connection mechanism provides both horizontal connection between components within a floor and vertical connection between floors. This unified coupling system ensures consistent security across all joints while simplifying the overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
A framing system for a construction set comprising a number of interchangeable elements which can be arranged to construct a variety of three-dimensional structures, as well as individual, stand-alone floors, which in turn are adapted to be stacked on one another. In some embodiments, the system comprises at least one central unit, a plurality of outer mid-columns, at least one tie beam corner unit, and/or at least one curved beam unit which cooperate to form a variety of stand-alone floors. The system comprises additional components which increase the stability of the construction set, including but not limited to internal corner brackets, cross pins, cross studs, square panels, and rectangular panels.