Toy Construction Variable Angle Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toy construction systems face limitations due to wear on connectors, which prevents structures from maintaining desired angles over time, restricting the variety of components and formations that can be interconnected.
Innovation Solution
A toy construction system featuring multiplicity of female twist-lock connectors, ball connectors with threaded stems, and blocks with variously shaped connectors, allowing for flexible and secure attachment of components at a wide range of angles using ball and socket connectors made of resilient materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors are used in toy construction systems, then the structure can be assembled, but the connectors become worn over time and cannot hold desired angles
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system transitions from a static fixed-angle design to a dynamic adjustable-angle design. The set screw mechanism allows the connector to be adjusted to any desired angle and then locked in place, providing both flexibility during assembly and stability once positioned. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the structure to maintain its intended geometry through active adjustment rather than passive wear resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design changes the critical parameter from fixed geometry to adjustable geometry with locking capability. By introducing the set screw that can be positioned at different angular parameters and locked securely, the system maintains angle retention even after repeated assembly and disassembly, preventing the wear-related angle drift that plagues traditional connectors.
2Stability of the object's composition
If connectors are designed to lock in certain orientations, then angle stability is improved, but the variety of orientations and structures that can be built is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with universal adaptability through the adjustable set screw mechanism that can lock at any angular position rather than predetermined orientations. This single connector design serves multiple functions: it provides stable angle retention for any desired orientation while simultaneously enabling unlimited variety in structure construction. The universal locking mechanism replaces the need for multiple specialized connectors for different angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from static fixed orientations to dynamic adjustable orientations. The set screw can be positioned and locked at any angle along the rod, providing continuous angular adjustment rather than discrete fixed positions. This dynamic capability simultaneously achieves angle stability (through locking) and orientation variety (through continuous adjustment range).
3Ease of operation
If simple interlocking joints are used, then ease of assembly is improved, but the ability to maintain desired angles and positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a self-locking mechanism where the set screw, when tightened, automatically secures the desired angle without requiring additional tools or operations. The spring-loaded or threaded set screw design provides self-contained angle retention functionality that maintains position stability while preserving assembly simplicity. The connector serves itself by locking into place through the set screw adjustment rather than requiring external fastening operations.
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
Enables the assembly of a wide variety of structures and formations, fostering child development of dexterity and creativity by providing a durable and versatile connection system that maintains shape and allows for multiple orientations.
Implementation Method 1
ball and socket connectors made of resilient materials
Data Source
AI summary
A toy construction system is disclosed that includes at least one panel member having a multiplicity of female twist-lock connectors formed in a surface thereof. A multiplicity of female socket flexible connectors are included where each has a stem adapted with threads for receipt by the female twist-lock connectors. Also, an equal multiplicity of ball connectors is included wherein each has a stem adapted with threads for receipt by the female twist-lock connectors. Another plurality of blocks of various sizes and shapes is included wherein each has a plurality of female connectors formed in surfaces thereof. Accordingly, a structure may be made by attaching the blocks to the panel by attaching the ball connectors to the block and the female connectors to the panel and engaging the ball connectors to the female socket flexible connectors.