Rolling device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rolling devices for moving objects along surfaces are complex to disassemble and assemble, requiring skilled expertise and increasing maintenance costs due to wear and tear on moving components, particularly the roller element.

Innovation Solution

A rolling device with a housing that accommodates a control and communication module, driving means, and a releasable support assembly for the rolling element, allowing easy replacement of the rolling element through a simple hand-grip force, using mechanisms like magnets or click connections for detachment and reattachment, and an electrical interface for powering and communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the rolling device uses a fixed mechanical integration of the rolling element, then the device structure is stable and reliable, but the complexity of disassembly and assembly increases, requiring skilled expertise for maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidease of replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The rolling device is divided into separate functional modules: a housing containing the actuator and control systems, and a rolling element (wheel) that can be independently removed. The rolling element features a detachable connection mechanism with guide members and attachment means, allowing it to be separated from the housing without affecting other components. This segmentation enables simple replacement of the rolling element while maintaining the integrity of the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If the rolling element is permanently fixed in the housing, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the cost of replacement increases and operational life is reduced due to inability to replace worn components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidreplacement capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the rolling element and housing transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic releasable connection. The attachment means includes magnetic elements and mechanical guide members that provide secure holding during operation but allow intentional detachment. This dynamic connection maintains structural integrity during use while enabling replacement when the rolling element wears out, extending the overall operational life of the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the rolling device uses complex mechanical fastening mechanisms, then the rolling element is securely held, but the ease of operation for replacement deteriorates, requiring mechanical expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure holdingVSAvoidease of replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, clips) is replaced with a magnetic attachment mechanism combined with simple guide members. The magnetic elements provide secure holding force to keep the rolling element in place during operation, but can be easily overcome by manual pulling force for replacement. This substitution eliminates the need for tools and mechanical expertise, allowing users to replace the rolling element by simple hand-grip force while maintaining secure holding during use.

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

Facilitates simple and cost-effective replacement of the rolling element by users without mechanical expertise, reducing maintenance complexity and extending the device's operational life.

Implementation Method 1

The housing further comprises an electrical interface adapted for establishing connection between the rolling element and at least one of the control and communication module and the power supply means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

using mechanisms like magnets or click connections for detachment and reattachment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12043118B2Rolling device
Publication Date: 2024.07.23 WHEEL ME AS
  • US12043118B2 patent drawing
  • US12043118B2 patent drawing
  • US12043118B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Rolling device comprising a housing (11) accommodating a rolling element and a control and communication module comprising a wireless receiver (30) connected to a control device (40) and position means (50) connected to the control device, wherein the rolling device further comprises driving means (60) connected to the control device and the rolling element for driving and controlling the movements of the rolling element according to a first position acquired by the position means and a received wireless signal comprising movement instructions and a second position, power supply means (70) for powering the control and communication module and the driving means, wherein the housing is arranged with an support assembly for bearing the rolling element which is configured for establishing a releasable connection with the housing, and an electrical interface adapted for establishing connection between the rolling element and the control and communication module and the power supply means.