Toy Securement Assembly Using Nested Tabs and Elastic Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toy securement methods fail to effectively restrict movement while allowing for desirable display and positioning, often requiring additional components that increase material consumption and assembly time.
Innovation Solution
A securement assembly comprising a support with insert tabs and a stand with an extension that engages with the tabs to secure the toy, using a combination of mechanical features like hooks and ribs to prevent movement and orient the toy for display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing toy securement methods are used, then toy movement is restricted, but additional packaging materials are required and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides securement by engaging with the toy's receptacle, enables display functionality through the open top configuration, and facilitates easy assembly through the snap-fit mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate packaging materials and securement components, directly resolving the contradiction between reliable securement and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The insert features nested tabs that can be inserted into corresponding receptacles on the toy, creating a nested configuration where the insert is partially contained within the toy structure. This nesting approach provides effective securement while minimizing the use of additional materials and simplifying the overall assembly
2Stability of the object's composition
If securement assembly is added to toy, then toy positioning is improved, but material consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is constructed from a thin, flexible sheet material that can be easily formed into the securement structure. This thin-film approach provides sufficient positioning stability while minimizing material consumption, directly addressing the contradiction between improved toy positioning and reduced material quantity
Solution Approach 2:
The securement function is segmented into discrete tabs that can be independently formed and engaged. This segmentation allows the use of minimal material to achieve effective positioning, as only the necessary tab structures are created rather than using solid blocks of material
3Reliability
If complex securement mechanism is used, then toy securement is enhanced, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert employs a self-service snap-fit mechanism where the tabs automatically engage with the toy's receptacle through elastic deformation and rebound. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex fastening operations, tools, or multiple assembly steps, providing enhanced securement while minimizing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs are pre-formed with elastic properties during manufacturing, preparing them for automatic engagement. This preliminary action ensures that during assembly, the tabs simply need to be inserted and will self-engage through their pre-programmed elastic rebound, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments or multiple securing steps
Data Source
AI summary
A securement assembly for a toy includes a support having an insert with a plurality of tabs cooperatively defining a space, the insert being configured to extend into a receptacle of the toy. The securement assembly also includes a stand with an extension configured to extend into the space cooperatively defined by the plurality of tabs so that, in an assembled configuration of the securement assembly, the extension abuts the plurality of tabs to move the plurality of tabs away from one another and into engagement with a wall of the toy defining the receptacle.