Segmented Toy Tube Track With Resilient Plastic And Gears
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toy tube track systems lack versatility and durability, with segments that are either rigid or difficult to connect, limiting the creativity and longevity of play experiences for children.
Innovation Solution
A toy tube track kit composed of reversibly attachable segments made from resilient plastic with elastic memory, allowing for flexible connection and curvature, combined with a specially designed car that uses gears and resilient structures for smooth propulsion along the track.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid segments are used to form the tube track, then structural strength is improved, but ease of connection and ability to form curves deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tube track is divided into multiple individual segments that can be connected together. Each segment has a standardized connection interface with protrusions and recesses that allow easy assembly while maintaining structural integrity. This segmentation enables both strength and ease of connection by distributing loads across multiple connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The tube segments are designed with flexible connection joints that allow the track to be configured in various shapes including curves and straight lines. The connections can accommodate angular adjustments while maintaining secure attachment, enabling the track to adapt to different play configurations without compromising structural strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If resilient plastic with elastic memory is used for segments, then adaptability and ease of connection are improved, but manufacturing precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tube segments are made from resilient plastic material with specific elastic properties that allow the material to return to its original shape after deformation. This elastic memory enables the segments to be easily connected and disconnected while maintaining consistent geometric dimensions, achieving both adaptability and manufacturing precision through material property selection.
3Reliability
If the toy car uses gears and resilient structures for propulsion, then reliability of movement is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The toy car is equipped with resilient structures that automatically maintain contact with the track walls through elastic force. The gears and propulsion mechanisms are designed to self-adjust to track variations, providing reliable movement without requiring complex external control systems. The resilient components continuously adapt to maintain optimal contact and propulsion.
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 kit provides a durable and adaptable play experience, enabling children to create complex tracks and ensuring the toy car maintains contact with the track walls for consistent movement, enhancing play value and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
segments made from resilient plastic with elastic memory, allowing for flexible connection and curvature
Implementation Method 2
a specially designed car that uses gears and resilient structures for smooth propulsion along the track
Implementation Method 3
a specially designed car that uses gears and resilient structures for smooth propulsion along the track
Data Source
AI summary
A toy is disclosed for a segmented tube track kit. The toy comprises a tube, comprised of reversibly attachable tubes. In one embodiment, the tube segments are held together frictionally. In another embodiment, tube segments are held together by locking mechanisms consisting of projections and cutouts. The toy vehicle in the kit has a drive wheel which is forced up away from the body of the car and against the inner walls of the tube by resilient members. In another embodiment, the vehicle has a tumbler wheel at the front of the car.