Toy Figure Connector With Movable Portions for Easy Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toy figure connectors require high force to separate parts, making it difficult for children to disconnect and reconnect toy figure components during play.
Innovation Solution
A connector system for toy figures comprising a first connector portion, a second connector portion, and an intermediate connector portion with movable middle portions that define a channel, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by applying forces that cause the connector portions to move toward and away from each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional coupler is used to connect toy figure parts, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because high force is required to separate the parts
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates movable middle portions that can transition between engaged and disengaged positions. When force is applied to separate the toy figure parts, the middle portions dynamically move from the engaged position within the cavity to the disengaged position outside the cavity, allowing easy separation while maintaining strong connection during play
Solution Approach 2:
The connector changes its structural parameters based on applied force. In the engaged state, the middle portions are positioned inside the cavity providing strong connection. When separation force is applied, the middle portions move to change their position parameter, transitioning to the disengaged state where they extend outside the cavity, enabling easy release
2Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional coupler is used to connect toy figure parts, then the connection stability is improved, but the time required for assembly and disassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic design of the middle portions allows rapid transition between connected and disconnected states. During play, the connector maintains stable connection with parts. When separation is needed, the middle portions quickly move from engaged to disengaged position, significantly reducing the time required for disassembly and reassembly operations
3Ease of operation
If a connector with movable middle portions is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct portions: first connector portion, middle portions, and second connector portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall design. The middle portions act as movable connectors that can be easily manufactured using standard plastic molding techniques, reducing actual manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
In the engaged state, the middle portions are nested within the cavity of the toy figure parts, creating a compact and stable connection. This nesting arrangement simplifies the overall structure when connected, while still allowing easy extraction when force is applied to separate the parts
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 connector system facilitates easy connection and disconnection of toy figure parts, reducing the force required and allowing for quicker assembly and customization during both manufacturing and play.
Implementation Method 1
the intermediate connector portion is movable toward and away from the first connector portion and the second connector portion in response to forces applied to the connector
Data Source
AI summary
A toy figure is presented herein with a connector for coupling two parts of the toy figure together. The connector has a first connector portion, a second connector portion, and an intermediate connector portion located between and coupled to both the first connector portion and the second connector portion. The intermediate connector portion has two spaced apart middle portions that define a channel therebetween and which can move toward and away from each other. The first connector portion has two side portions that can also move toward and away from each other.