Posable Building Block Joints With Durable Universal Interconnections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building block toys lack versatile and durable interconnection methods that allow for near-infinite customization and adaptability, particularly in systems involving posable components, while minimizing waste and wear.
Innovation Solution
The use of posable metal components with embedded rigid components and snap-fit interconnecting building blocks, featuring orthogonal or parallel central axes, and optional helical covers or clamping arrangements, creates robust and customizable joints such as revolute and universal joints, allowing for near-infinite construction possibilities without detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional building block interconnection methods are used, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the durability and resistance to wear is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing rigid components inside the posable metal component's terminus, creating a layered structure where one element is contained within another. This nested arrangement enhances durability while maintaining a relatively simple overall design, as the rigid inner component reinforces the metal outer component without requiring separate complex interconnection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining different materials - a posable metal component with embedded rigid components (such as plastic or other non-metal materials). This composite approach leverages the flexibility and strength of metal along with the durability and wear resistance of rigid materials, creating an interconnection system that is both reliable and resistant to wear while avoiding excessive complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If versatile interconnection methods are implemented, then adaptability and customization increase, but wear and tear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the building block into distinct segments - the posable metal component, the rigid components, and the interconnection elements. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function: the metal component provides flexibility and poseability, while the rigid components provide structural integrity and wear resistance. The modular segmented design enables versatility and customization without causing excessive wear, as each segment can be independently optimized and replaced if needed.
3Reliability
If posable metal components with embedded rigid components are used, then durability and wear resistance improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the posable metal component and the rigid components into a single integrated structure where the rigid components are embedded within the metal terminus. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly steps for these components, as they are formed together in one manufacturing process. The combined structure provides both the wear resistance of rigid materials and the flexibility of metal, while the integrated manufacturing approach keeps production complexity manageable.
4Adaptability or versatility
If orthogonal or parallel central axes configurations are used, then joint versatility and construction possibilities increase, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the interconnection system with universal characteristics by providing both orthogonal and parallel central axis configurations that can be used across different joint types. The same basic interconnection mechanism can accommodate multiple orientation configurations, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to various construction needs. This universal design approach enables joint versatility without requiring entirely different mechanisms for each configuration, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary toy construction may comprise a posable building block whereby a portion of the posable building block is coupled by a clutch having at least one opening with a first central axis, and a lock having at least one opening with a second central axis, and the first central axis and the second central axis may not be colinear. The exemplary toy construction creates numerous types of joints between the posable building block and the clutch and lock, including a universal joint.