Square-Tube Construction Set for Adjustable Corner Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction sets are limited in forming various types of corner joints at angles other than 90°, as they either restrict angle variation or require specific bevel angles, failing to accommodate a wide range of corner configurations.
Innovation Solution
A model construction set with blocks of square cross-section and rectangular faces of different widths, featuring inner longitudinal passages and round, identically sized holes, along with auxiliary parts that allow for connections capable of rotating at any point on a hemisphere, enabling the formation of corner joints from 0° to 180° regardless of block positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional construction sets with limited hole patterns and fixed block configurations are used, then manufacturing and assembly are simple, but the ability to form various types of corner joints at angles other than 90° is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the connection functionality into separate components: blocks with standardized hole patterns and auxiliary parts (angle adapters, connectors) that provide the angle variation capability. This segmentation allows the basic blocks to remain simple while the auxiliary parts handle the complexity of forming joints at various angles, resolving the contradiction between versatility and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Auxiliary parts serve as intermediaries between blocks when forming corner joints at angles other than 90°. These intermediary components enable angle variation without requiring complex hole patterns in every block, thus achieving versatility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The auxiliary parts mediate the connection between standardized blocks to achieve non-standard angles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If blocks with multiple hole patterns and varied configurations are used to enable angle variation, then corner joint versatility improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by providing different hole patterns only where needed - in auxiliary parts designed for specific angle connections - while keeping basic blocks with simple, standardized hole patterns. This localized differentiation achieves angle versatility without requiring high manufacturing precision across all components, as only the auxiliary parts need specialized hole configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary parts are designed as universal components that can work with multiple block types and configurations to achieve various angles. This multi-functionality allows a single auxiliary part to enable angle variation without requiring precise customization of every block, thereby reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary parts with multiple connection points and rotation capabilities are added, then structural flexibility and joint versatility improve, but the number of components and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple connection points and rotation capabilities into single integrated auxiliary parts. Rather than using separate components for each function, the auxiliary parts combine angle adjustment, rotation, and connection capabilities in unified elements, thereby achieving structural flexibility without proportionally increasing the number of components or assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary parts incorporate dynamic capabilities such as rotation joints and adjustable connection points that allow the structure to adapt to various configurations. This dynamic design enables a single auxiliary part to perform multiple functions (different angles, rotations) that would otherwise require multiple fixed components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A construction set for erecting structures that can be assembled and disassembled. Functional capabilities of a construction set are expanded, which makes it possible to assemble a high-strength structure. Blocks with a square cross-section having faces of different widths and lengths, identical circular apertures, and an internal longitudinal passage are provided, for connection in a longitudinal and a transverse direction to form angles that are rigidly and movably connected. The blocks are made of square tubing of compatible standard sizes. Auxiliary parts are produced by cutting away an end face of a block, making it possible to use the blocks as pivotable levers and to use a unified fastening connective element as a pivot pin, where the position of one of the blocks changes along spherical coordinates relative to the conjugation point.