Toy Light Saber Motorized Blade Extension

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing retractable toy swords with light emitting capabilities are hazardous due to rapid spring extension, requiring significant force for retraction, and do not effectively enhance the visibility of the device itself.

Innovation Solution

A remote-controlled, retractable light emitting device with a light source, elongated tube, and internal guide shaft, where the light beam is reflected through the tube walls for enhanced visibility, and the tube sections can be extended and retracted using a twisting motion, ensuring safety and ease of use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a spring is used for rapid extension of the toy sword, then the extension speed is improved, but the safety is worsened due to injury risk to children's eyes

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the spring-loaded mechanical extension system with a remote-controlled motorized system. The motor drives the blade section along the shaft, eliminating the harmful rapid spring extension while maintaining controlled movement capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic control of the blade extension through remote operation. The blade can be extended and retracted at controlled speeds based on user input, replacing the fixed rapid extension mechanism with an adaptable dynamic system that prioritizes safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Speed

If a spring-loaded mechanism is used for extension, then the extension rapidity is improved, but the retraction force requirement is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the spring-based mechanical system with an electric motor system that provides controlled bidirectional movement. The motor can easily reverse direction to retract the blade without requiring significant user force, eliminating the trade-off between extension rapidity and retraction effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If an open-ended tube is used as light source, then the light beam functionality is improved, but the device visibility is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a translucent blade section that allows light to pass through while visibly illuminating the blade itself. The light transmitted through the blade material makes the device visible, combining the light beam function with enhanced device visibility simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

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 solution provides a safe and visually enhanced retractable light emitting device that can be used as a toy saber or signaling tool, with improved safety by eliminating the need for forceful retraction and enhancing visibility through the reflective properties of the elongated tube.

Implementation Method 1

a cap on the end of the tube opposite the light source which reflects the light beam back into the interior of the light tube

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a light source to produce a beam of light, such as a flashlight

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS10500518B2Toy retractable light saber
Publication Date: 2019.12.10
  • US10500518B2 patent drawing
  • US10500518B2 patent drawing
  • US10500518B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light toy that is divided into hilt and blade may be used as a science fiction light saber, a signaling device, or illumination marker is disclosed. A light source sends a beam of light into a non-opaque tube along its axis. The elongated tube also known as the blade extends out in at least two sections by remote with an electric motor and can retract back into the hilt of the hollow structure of the device to be unseen. The light emitting device emanates a glow through the walls of the tube making the device highly visible. The motor that actuates the blade is hidden within hilt of the device. In addition, a sound board may be added to transmit sound while in use or play.