Toy Construction Element with Resilient Snap-Fit Interlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction toys lack strong interlocking features that resist disengagement and are limited to construction in only one direction, restricting the variety of model structures that can be built.
Innovation Solution
A toy construction element with a projection and complementary recess featuring a resilient component that allows for snap-fit interlocking in multiple dimensions, enabling secure assembly and disassembly without permanent stress, allowing for complex three-dimensional structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional rigid interlocking features are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the interlocking strength and resistance to disengagement deteriorates due to wear and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the interlocking component from rigid to resilient. The resilient component can elastically deform to accommodate wear and maintain interlocking engagement, transforming the interlocking mechanism from a rigid precision-fit system to a resilient system that tolerates dimensional variations while maintaining strong engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining rigid projection elements with resilient components. The rigid portions provide structural support and geometric alignment, while the resilient portions provide adaptive engagement and wear tolerance, creating a hybrid interlocking system that combines the advantages of both material properties.
2Device complexity
If construction elements are designed for single-direction stacking, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and versatility of model structures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the interlocking capability from single-direction vertical stacking to multi-directional engagement. The resilient components are positioned on multiple faces of the construction element, enabling connections in various directions (upward, downward, sideways), thereby adding dimensional freedom to the construction system without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction element is designed with universal interlocking capabilities that function in multiple orientations and directions. The same resilient component design can engage in various spatial configurations, allowing a single element type to serve multiple construction purposes and enabling diverse model structures from a limited set of components.
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 solution provides strong interlocking features that resist disengagement and allows for versatile three-dimensional construction, enhancing the variety of models that can be built while reducing fatigue and improving retention performance over time.
Implementation Method 1
each recess is at least in part defined by a resilient component (20) flexing to allow passage of the formations (18) over one another during connection of like elements (10) and to resist disconnection of like elements (10)
Data Source
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AI summary
A toy construction element is disclosed having a body with at least one projection extending therefrom and a plurality of complementary-shaped recesses formed therein, the recesses extending along at least two different axes and being configured for receiving a corresponding projection from like elements so as to allow like construction elements to be interconnected in three dimensions. The projections and/or recesses may be formed with snap-fit interlocking features whereby the element is configured for interlocking engagement with like elements. The snap-fit interlocking features can include complementary locking formations formed on each projection and each recess, the formations configured to pass over each other as the projection of one element is received in the recess of another element when like elements are assembled, wherein the recess is at least in part defined by a resilient component, the component flexing to resist passage of the formations during assembly and disassembly.