Toy Block Separation Tool with Reconfigurable Coupling End

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing toy construction tools lack an efficient method to separate blocks and rods of varying sizes and shapes from assembled structures without damaging the components or leaving residues.

Innovation Solution

A tool with a coupling end that transitions between configurations, featuring moveable pegs and openings, and elongated portions that can deform to grip and separate blocks and rods, allowing for easy detachment and reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a tool uses fixed geometry coupling end, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate blocks and rods of varying sizes and shapes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of varying sizes and shapesVSAvoidtool structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling end is designed to change its geometry dynamically between different configurations. The moving member can shift position within the body to transform the coupling end between a first configuration (with openings) and a second configuration (with pegs), allowing the tool to adapt to different block and rod sizes and shapes without requiring multiple specialized tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a tool uses moveable pegs and openings for separation, then it can efficiently detach blocks, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation efficiencyVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The moving member serves multiple functions: it can be positioned to present openings for receiving pegs during attachment, or positioned to present pegs for engaging openings during detachment. This multi-functionality allows a single mechanism to handle both attachment and separation operations efficiently, improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If elongated portions are made deformable for gripping, then the tool can handle various rod sizes, but the structural integrity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip accommodation of various sizesVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The elongated portions are designed with controlled flexibility, allowing them to deform elastically when squeezed together to grip rods of various sizes. The material and cross-sectional design enable these portions to bend and conform to different rod diameters while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to transmit gripping forces without permanent deformation or failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10518189B2Tool for use with toy construction elements

Publication Date: 2019.12.31 MATTEL-MEGA HOLDINGS US LLC

AI summary

A tool for separating blocks and other elements from an assembly of toy construction elements is disclosed. The tool may include a coupling end that can attach to pegs and/or openings in a block and is configured for easily prying off the block. The tool may include a moving member that can be used to configure the coupling end in two different configurations for coupling to either the top or bottom of a block.