Pivoting Construction Connector System for Elastic Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction systems for toys and modular structures face limitations in scalability, durability, and elasticity, often resulting in couplings that loosen or break under stress, and are restricted in geometry and configuration possibilities.
Innovation Solution
A cross-mating connector system where connectors pivot along their longitudinal extensions, allowing relative inclination changes, and feature chamfered openings and stops for secure interlocking, enabling the creation of complex, durable, and elastic structures without unintentional decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional clip connections are used to allow twisting and bending, then elasticity is improved, but durability deteriorates as couplings break under larger energies
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism where the second connector pivots relative to the first connector along their longitudinal extensions. This pivoting action transforms the static clip connection into a dynamic system that can absorb and dissipate energy through controlled movement, preventing brittle failure while maintaining connection integrity under stress
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system combines rigid structural elements with flexible coupling mechanisms. The body parts are made from rigid material providing structural strength, while the coupling interface allows elastic deformation through pivoting, creating a composite behavior that exhibits both strength and flexibility
2Reliability
If flat construction elements with slots are used to improve coupling durability, then reliability is improved, but the elements fatigue at slot positions due to bending stresses
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rigid fixed connections that create stress concentration at slot positions, the invention introduces dynamic pivoting capability along the longitudinal extensions. This allows the connection to adapt to bending stresses through controlled rotation rather than forcing the flat elements to flex at weak slot positions, eliminating fatigue failure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a rotational degree of freedom along the longitudinal extension axis, moving from a two-dimensional flat element connection to a three-dimensional pivoting connection. This dimensional change allows the connectors to accommodate bending stresses through rotation rather than flexing the flat elements, preventing fatigue at slot positions
3Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are designed to allow pivoting for elasticity, then adaptability is improved, but unintentional decoupling may occur under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates preliminary counter-actions to prevent unwanted decoupling. The interlocking geometry of the first and second connectors creates mechanical constraints that oppose separation forces, while the pivoting mechanism along the longitudinal extensions provides controlled movement. This preliminary design ensures that under stress, the connectors maintain their connection through geometric interlocking while allowing necessary elastic deformation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a construction system comprising construction elements (12) which allow unlimited configurations of structures that can be produced. If the construction system is provided as a toy, the construction elements (12) can be used without undergoing fatigue. The producible structures have sufficient elasticity and can therefore be used, e.g. as a ball. Finally, the construction elements (12) can be manufactured in a simple and cost-effective manner.