Suction Cup Construction Toy Set with Segmented Connection Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction toy sets are limited in their ability to connect interlocking pieces to any location on other pieces or to nonporous surfaces, restricting creative configurations and age range due to safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A suction cup construction toy set that includes interlocking pieces with suction cups, allowing them to connect to other similar pieces as well as any horizontal or vertical nonporous surfaces, enabling flexible and creative configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional interlocking pieces are used with predetermined connection points, then manufacturing precision and structural stability are improved, but adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is segmented into multiple suction cup receptacles positioned at different locations (first end, second end, and medial position of planar members). This segmentation allows the interlocking piece to connect at multiple discrete points along its length, providing flexibility in connection locations while maintaining precise manufacturing of each individual receptacle position.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection capability is extended from fixed predetermined points to continuous positions along the length of the interlocking piece. By distributing multiple suction cup receptacles along the longitudinal axis and allowing suction cups to attach at various positions, the system transitions from zero-dimensional fixed points to one-dimensional continuous connection capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional interlocking pieces are used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking piece is designed with dual functionality: it can connect to other interlocking pieces through suction cup receptacles, and it can also attach to various nonporous surfaces (windows, walls, tables, glass) through suction cups. This multi-functionality allows the same component to serve both interlocking and surface attachment purposes, greatly enhancing adaptability while maintaining stability through the suction cup mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If small pieces are included in the toy set, then construction versatility is improved, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single interlocking piece: the planar member provides structural body, connection members provide attachment points, and suction cup receptacles provide both interlocking capability and surface attachment capability. This consolidation reduces the number of separate small components needed, allowing children to build complex structures with fewer, larger, safer pieces while maintaining construction versatility.
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 suction cup construction toy set allows for endless creative configurations by enabling connections at any location, not just predetermined points, and can be safely used on various surfaces, enhancing play value and safety.
Implementation Method 1
one or more suction cups positioned on one or more said connection members
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed towards a suction cup construction toy set that is capable of securing to predetermined points of other interlocking pieces as well as to other surfaces and locations of any interlocking piece. The interlocking pieces of the construction toy set also have the capability of removably attaching to other items or places that are not part of the construction toy set. The suction cup construction set is comprised of a plurality of interlocking pieces comprising at least a first planar member and a second planar member, any number of connection members, and any number of suction cups positioned on the connection members. The suction cup construction toy set allows for free-thinking designs and creativity for any user as the interlocking pieces may be constructed in any number of unique configurations and secured to any number of horizontal or vertical surfaces.