Toy Construction Element Sensing Device for Coupling Error Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction elements lack the ability to track construction progress and detect coupling errors in real-time, leading to potential inaccuracies and inefficiencies in building processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a sensing device with coils and data processors into construction elements to detect alignment, coupling status, and proximity, allowing for real-time feedback and data transmission to assist builders and provide visual or audible signals for error correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If construction elements are assembled manually without sensing devices, then the construction process is simple and quick to start, but construction errors cannot be detected in real-time and accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical coupling verification with electromagnetic sensing. Coils are embedded in the construction elements to detect coupling status through electromagnetic field changes, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors while achieving automated detection of assembly accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state detection from mechanical contact to electromagnetic field interaction. By monitoring changes in electromagnetic field parameters (inductance, resistance) when coupling elements join, the system achieves precise measurement of coupling status without adding complex mechanical measurement devices
2Reliability
If construction elements include embedded sensors and data processors, then real-time feedback and error detection are improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sensor assemblies with simple embedded coils and basic data processors. These electromagnetic components are easier to manufacture and integrate into construction elements while providing reliable detection of coupling status through changes in electrical parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The data processor serves multiple functions: detecting coupling status, verifying assembly accuracy, providing real-time feedback, and controlling signal transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high reliability
3Productivity
If real-time sensing and feedback systems are implemented, then construction errors are detected early and productivity improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing device operates periodically rather than continuously, activating coils and data processors only when coupling elements approach or make contact. This periodic operation provides real-time feedback at critical moments while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The construction elements themselves generate the detection signal through their coupling action. When elements join, the mechanical connection automatically changes the electromagnetic field parameters, eliminating the need for external power-intensive sensing systems and enabling energy-efficient self-detection
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 sensing device enables early detection of construction errors, speeds up the building process, and provides intermediate feedback, enhancing the learning experience by offering guidance on element placement and removal through visual or audible signals.
Implementation Method 1
The top surface is provided with a series of top coils and the bottom surface is provided with a series of bottom coils at a distance from the top coils
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a sensing device for in a construction element for a toy construction set, said sensing device comprising a carrier comprising a top surface provided with a series of top coils with their axes functionally parallel, a bottom surface with a series of bottom coils at a distance from said top coils and with their axes functionally aligned with said top coils, the sensing device further comprising a data processor functionally coupled with a memory for storing a status of each of said top and bottom coils, said data processor functionally coupled with said top and bottom coils for controlling an electrical current through each of said top and bottom coils and for recording changes of current in each of said top and bottom coils, allowing detection of alignment of at least one coil of another, similar sensing device with a coil of said sensing device, wherein said data processor comprises a computer program which, when running on said data processor, controls a current through each of said top and bottom coils, reads a current through each of said top and bottom coils, and from a change of said current and a level of said current calculates a status for each of said top and bottom coils, and stores said status for each coil in said memory.