Toy Track Relay Segments with Triggered Launching Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Toy vehicle track sets often become repetitive, leading to a loss of interest due to consistent vehicle motion and limited play possibilities, despite the inclusion of stunt devices and switching mechanisms that require manual manipulation.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of interchangeable relay segments with triggers and launching elements that allow vehicles to be launched from one segment to another, enabling various configurations and diverse play patterns by actuating triggers to initiate stunts and change vehicle direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching mechanisms are used to enable users to direct vehicles to select travel paths, then travel path variety is improved, but operation complexity and manual manipulation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service mechanisms where vehicles automatically trigger switches through their own motion. The vehicle's passage through track sections activates switching mechanisms without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to reconfigure travel paths autonomously based on vehicle position and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical switching with automated trigger mechanisms that detect vehicle presence and automatically redirect vehicles. Sensors and actuators substitute for manual operations, enabling path selection through electronic or mechanical detection systems that respond to vehicle movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stunt devices are added to increase play value, then vehicle motion variety is improved, but track complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is divided into modular sections, each containing specific stunt devices or trigger mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual track segments to be independently configured and replaced, managing overall complexity by breaking down the system into manageable functional units that can be combined in various arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements such as movable ramps, adjustable switches, and reconfigurable track sections that can change their configuration during operation. These dynamic components allow the track to adapt its complexity level, providing varied stunt sequences while maintaining manageable system architecture through programmable or mechanically adjustable elements.
3Device complexity
If vehicles run on a closed loop track, then track simplicity is maintained, but play value decreases due to repetitive motion
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by creating multiple lap opportunities with varying conditions. Vehicles complete multiple circuits of the track, but each lap features different active triggers, switched paths, or stunt sequences that change based on previous vehicle passages. This periodic repetition with variation maintains track simplicity while preventing monotony through conditional reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where vehicle position, speed, and previous actions influence subsequent track configurations. Sensors detect vehicle characteristics and trigger appropriate responses such as activating specific stunts, switching paths, or adjusting difficulty levels, creating an adaptive experience that responds to vehicle performance and maintains engagement across multiple laps.
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
This solution provides a customizable and expandable track set that allows for numerous play patterns and configurations, enhancing play value by enabling diverse and exciting track experiences through sequential and parallel stunt elements, maintaining interest over time.
Implementation Method 1
a launching element for launching a vehicle from the relay segment when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A relay segment for a toy track set is provided, the relay segment having a trigger moveably secured to the relay segment proximate to a first vehicle track segment pivotally mounted to the relay segment for adjustable movement with respect to the relay segment, the trigger being capable of movement between a first position and a second position; and a launching element for launching a vehicle from the relay segment when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position.