Modular Trampoline Accessory with Rotational Adjustment for Marble Runs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for securing and positioning trampolines with marble runs are cumbersome, imprecise, and lack consistency in response to incoming and rebounding objects.

Innovation Solution

A modular pathway accessory featuring a base and a rebounding portion with an adjustment mechanism providing one, two, or three degrees of rotational freedom, allowing for easy positioning and consistent object redirection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional methods are used to secure and position trampolines with marble runs, then the trampoline can be attached, but the process is cumbersome and imprecise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of positioningVSAvoidcomplexity of securing mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory is divided into distinct modular components: a base portion that attaches to the marble run, a rebounding portion (trampoline surface), and an adjustment portion connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall attachment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment portion provides dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing the rebounding portion to be rotated and angled to various positions. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables precise positioning without requiring complex permanent installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If traditional trampolines are secured to marble runs, then they can function, but positioning is imprecise and inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of positioningVSAvoiddifficulty of adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment portion enables precise control over the rebounding portion's position and orientation through rotational movement. Users can accurately position the trampoline at specific angles and locations to achieve consistent rebound trajectories for marble runs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows adjustment of key geometric parameters including the angle of the rebounding surface, its horizontal position, and its orientation. These parameter changes enable precise positioning to achieve desired rebound characteristics while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If trampolines are attached to marble runs, then they can rebound objects, but the response is inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconsistency of rebound responseVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable connection mechanism allows the rebounding portion to be positioned at precise, repeatable angles and locations. This dynamic adjustability ensures consistent geometric relationships between the marble run path and trampoline surface, producing reliable and repeatable rebound responses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex mechanical securing systems with a simpler adjustment mechanism that uses rotational freedom and gravitational stabilization. This substitution maintains reliability while reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 accessory enables easy adjustment and consistent rebounding of objects, providing a precise and reliable interaction with marble runs, ensuring accurate trajectory redirection.

Implementation Method 1

a rebounding portion configured to rebound an impacting object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9409097B2Accessories to a modular pathway apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.08.09 Q BA MAZE INC
  • US9409097B2 patent drawing
  • US9409097B2 patent drawing
  • US9409097B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An accessory, such as a trampoline, for a toy or game may include a base, a rebounding portion configured to rebound an impacting object, and an adjustment portion coupled to the base and the rebounding portion, supporting the rebounding portion relative to the base, and configured for at least two degrees of rotational freedom relative to the base.