Toy Track Relay Segments for Variable Vehicle Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Toy vehicle track sets often become repetitive, leading to a loss of interest due to the consistent motion of vehicles along closed loop tracks with limited play possibilities, as existing systems require manual manipulation to reroute vehicles and lack interchangeable elements for varied configurations.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of interchangeable relay segments with actuators, triggers, and launchers that allow toy vehicles to traverse obstacles and perform stunts, enabling customizable track configurations and diverse play patterns by coupling multiple segments to create various sequences and paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching mechanisms are used to reroute vehicles, then travel paths can be changed, but the system requires manual manipulation and play possibilities remain limited
Solution Approach 1:
The track system enables vehicles to automatically change their own paths through self-contained switching mechanisms that are triggered by the vehicles themselves or by track conditions, eliminating the need for manual manipulation. The switching elements are integrated into the track structure and respond automatically to vehicle presence or specific track events.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If closed loop tracks are used, then vehicles can continuously travel, but the motion becomes repetitive and interest is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The track system incorporates dynamic elements that allow the track configuration to change during vehicle travel. Switching mechanisms, movable track sections, and reconfigurable elements enable the track layout to evolve, providing continuously varying paths and stunts that maintain player interest over extended play sessions.
Solution Approach 2:
The track is divided into modular segments that can be independently configured and reconfigured. This segmentation allows different combinations of track elements, stunts, and switching mechanisms to be arranged in various sequences, creating diverse play patterns while maintaining continuous vehicle operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed track configurations are used, then the track structure is simple, but numerous configurations and diverse play patterns cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The track employs universal connecting elements and standardized interfaces that allow the same modular components to serve multiple functions and be arranged in numerous configurations. The interchangeable elements are designed with consistent connection mechanisms, enabling versatile track layouts without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
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 enhances play value by providing numerous configurations and exciting scenarios, allowing users to experience diverse track play and extended excitement through the use of interchangeable relay segments that enable variable vehicle paths and stunt elements.
Implementation Method 1
a carrier moveably mounted to the guide member, wherein the carrier is configured to descend along the guide member from a first raised position to a second base position by the force of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a relay for a toy track set, the relay having: a first actuator; a second actuator; an object movably secured to the relay for movement from a first elevated position to a second lower position; a first trigger moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position causes the actuator to release the object from the first elevated position such that the object travels towards the second lower position; and a second trigger coupled the second actuator wherein movement of the second trigger launches an object from the second actuator, wherein the second trigger is moved when the object is at the second lower position.