Plug-in Elements with Integrated Connectors and Breaking Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in kits for forming three-dimensional shapes require separate connecting means and have a limited pool of plug-in elements, restricting the creation of new combinations and structures.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising flat plug-in elements with integrated receptacles and connecting means, featuring predetermined breaking points that allow division into smaller elements, enabling new combinations and structures without additional connecting parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If separate connecting elements are used to join plug-in elements, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and the number of required parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connecting means and receptacles directly into the plug-in elements themselves, eliminating the need for separate connecting elements. Each plug-in element is self-contained with integrated connection capabilities, merging functions that were previously separated into different components.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug-in elements are designed to serve multiple functions: they are both the structural building blocks and their own connecting mechanisms. The universal design allows any plug-in element to connect to any other through their standardized receptacles and connecting means, eliminating the need for specialized connectors.
2Quantity of substance
If a limited pool of plug-in elements is provided, then the initial kit size is reduced, but the adaptability and ability to create new combinations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in elements incorporate predetermined breaking points that allow them to be divided into smaller segments. This segmentation capability enables users to create new plug-in element configurations from existing ones, effectively expanding the variety of buildable structures without adding more initial components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration by enabling users to break and reconnect elements. The breaking points provide controlled flexibility, allowing the kit to adapt to new construction needs while maintaining the integrity of the base component set.
3Adaptability or versatility
If plug-in elements are designed to be divided at breaking points, then the ability to create new elements is improved, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The breaking points are pre-designed and pre-positioned during manufacturing to ensure they are located at optimal locations that maintain structural integrity. This preliminary planning allows division while preserving the strength of the remaining elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The breaking points are localized to specific areas of the plug-in elements where division is intended, while the rest of the element maintains its full structural integrity. This localized approach ensures that only the necessary portions are divided without compromising the overall strength of the components.
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
In a kit comprising several plug-in elements (1) that can be connected to each other to form connecting bodies, each plug-in element (1) has a flat surface and features receptacles (4) and connecting elements (5). The receptacles (4) are designed such that at least one connecting element (5) can be inserted into a receptacle (4). Each plug-in element (1) has at least one predetermined breaking point (7) so that each plug-in element (1) can be divided into at least two plug-in elements (1) with receptacles (4) and connecting elements (5).