Articulated Toy Robot Using Elastic Cable Tension for Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing articulated toy robots are limited in configuration, unable to change height, lack gripping capabilities, and do not provide varied tactile experiences or elements of surprise, failing to enhance children's play.
Innovation Solution
An articulatable toy with interchangeable components made from various materials, featuring joints that twist and pop into place, gripping appendages, and secret cavities, allowing for multiple configurations and enhanced tactility, including a robot form factor that can stand on both feet and interact with accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If solid wood blocks are used for articulated toy robots, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the number of configurations is limited and height cannot be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated toy robot is divided into multiple separable blocks that can be connected and disconnected. Each block can be independently positioned and reconfigured, allowing the robot to change from a standing position to a sitting position and adjust height by adding or removing blocks from the leg assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The toy incorporates dynamic elements including rotatable joints that allow limbs to move between fixed angular positions, and adjustable block configurations that enable height changes. The elastic cable mechanism provides dynamic tension adjustment to maintain structural integrity during reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional block structures are used, then manufacturing is simple, but gripping capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping hands are designed with differentiated local features including protruding fingers with rounded tips for grasping objects, and凹槽 (recesses) for receiving and holding blocks. The hand structure combines smooth rounded surfaces for tactile interaction with geometric features for mechanical interlocking.
3Adaptability or versatility
If basic block shapes are used, then production is straightforward, but tactile experience is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Different blocks feature varied surface treatments and geometries including smooth rounded surfaces, gear-like protrusions,凹槽 (recesses), and textured patterns. These localized tactile variations provide diverse sensory feedback during manipulation while maintaining compatibility with standard joining mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If simple articulated structures are used, then the design is straightforward, but elements of surprise and accessories are missing
Solution Approach 1:
The toy includes nested secret cavities within block structures that can be opened to reveal hidden elements. The hand assemblies contain internal mechanisms for gripping, and the modular block system allows nested configurations where smaller assemblies fit within larger structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated toy robot serves multiple functions including standing and sitting positions, height adjustment by adding/removing blocks, gripping objects with hands, and interacting with building accessories. The same basic block and joint components enable all these diverse functions.
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 toy offers a wide range of configurations, enhanced tactility, and an element of surprise, providing children with a more engaging and interactive play experience through its versatile design and hidden features.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic cable (or cord) passing through slots, apertures, and cavities
Implementation Method 2
held in tension with an elastic cable (or cord) passing through slots, apertures, and cavities
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are toy robots having a frame, base and building accessories and kits therefor. The toy has a system of blocks, gripping appendages, gears and pop-up joints threaded together by an elastic cable held in tension. This configuration allows the toy to stand tall or short, be configured in myriad poses In or outside its frame, on or off its accessories, and can allow for the discovery of a secret cavity.