Multi-Level Sieve Bins for Faster Toy Brick Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
As kids grow and their Lego collections expand, it becomes difficult to find the right pieces for building, leading to a messy environment and increased time spent sorting, rather than building.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level bin system with sieves of varying sizes and shapes, utilizing gravitational force and user-applied manual forces to sort and organize pieces, combined with a flexible binding mechanism and see-through materials for easy monitoring, allowing for efficient storage and access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pieces are stored in a large collection, then the variety of building options increases, but the time to find specific pieces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple bins with sieves of different sizes, creating segmented compartments that automatically sort pieces by dimension. This segmentation allows the collection to maintain variety while enabling quick access to specific piece types through physical separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sieves are pre-configured with specific hole sizes and shapes that correspond to different piece categories. When pieces are poured into the system, they are automatically sorted before the building activity begins, eliminating the need to search through the entire collection during play.
2Ease of operation
If pieces are sorted manually, then organization is achieved, but the complexity of the sorting process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-sorting by utilizing the physical properties of the pieces themselves. The sieves are designed with hole dimensions that allow pieces to self-categorize based on their own size and shape characteristics, eliminating the need for manual sorting while maintaining simple operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sieves vary hole parameters (size, shape, orientation) to create different sorting criteria. By changing these physical parameters across multiple bins, the system achieves comprehensive organization without increasing operational complexity, as the sorting happens automatically through gravity and piece insertion.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid storage structure is used, then stability is improved, but the ease of access and manipulation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a flexible binding mechanism that allows the structure to transition between stable and accessible states. During sorting, bins can be removed or manipulated freely; during storage, the structure provides stable containment. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between structural stability and operational ease.
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
Significantly reduces the time spent finding pieces, providing an organized and entertaining experience that enhances the building process while serving as a storage unit.
Implementation Method 1
The system utilizes a combination of gravitational force on the individual pieces and manual forces applied by the user on the system to automatically sort and organize pieces in to the respective bins.
Implementation Method 2
Each bin and its system of sieves is designed and constructed in a way that allows for specific sizes, shapes and weights to filter through to the next level, resulting finally in a set of sorted pieces at different levels.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, methodology, and product to sort, organize and store individual members of building/construction toy sets utilizing a multi-level system of bins with sieves at different heights using user applied forces and gravity to automatically sort and organize pieces into bins, while providing a fun hands-on sorting experience for kids. The location, size and shape of the sieves can be designed to optimize sorting speed and user experience for specific toy manufacturer brands including Lego™ bricks made by Lego Corporation. The system also functions as a storage unit for the pieces, during and after sort. A flexible binding mechanism holds the system together during sort. The system is designed with see-through materials to monitor the status of the sort and find specific pieces in respective bins. A set of wheels enables mobility. The “hands-on” involvement in sorting also makes this an entertaining and educational apparatus for kids.