Toy Track Connector Assembly With Threaded Risers for Stable Elevation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toy track systems are unstable, particularly when used on uneven surfaces, leading to frequent tipping and instability, which detracts from the play experience.
Innovation Solution
A toy track assembly featuring support columns with threaded openings and fasteners, along with track connectors and accessories like bridge supports and pivoting gates, providing multi-tier stability and easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If risers are mounted on unstable surfaces (carpet, rugs, or offset surfaces), then the track system becomes easier to set up, but the stability of the trackway deteriorates, causing blocks to fall over
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into modular risers that can be individually positioned and secured. Each riser acts as an independent segment that can be placed on unstable surfaces without compromising the overall stability, as each segment can be independently anchored
Solution Approach 2:
Threaded male members and fasteners serve as intermediary elements between the risers and the track connector. These intermediaries provide a secure mechanical connection that transfers loads effectively, allowing the track system to remain stable even when risers are positioned on unstable surfaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If more risers are mounted on top of each other to adjust elevation, then the track elevation flexibility is improved, but the inherent stability deteriorates, making the track more unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure uses modular risers that can be stacked in different configurations to achieve various elevations. Each riser segment can be independently adjusted, allowing flexible elevation changes while maintaining structural integrity through the modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The support system allows dynamic adjustment of riser heights and positions to accommodate different track elevation requirements. The threaded fastening mechanism enables easy assembly and disassembly, allowing the structure to be reconfigured for different elevations while maintaining stability at each configuration
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional track support elements are used, then the assembly process is simpler, but the reliability of the track system deteriorates due to frequent tipping
Solution Approach 1:
Threaded male members and fasteners act as intermediary connection elements between the track connector and risers. These intermediaries provide a secure, adjustable mechanical connection that significantly improves reliability while maintaining ease of assembly through a straightforward threaded fastening process
Solution Approach 2:
The support system allows adjustment of connection parameters such as fastener tightness and riser positioning to optimize both assembly ease and reliability. The threaded connection mechanism enables variable adjustment of connection strength while maintaining a simple assembly process
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 system ensures stable, multi-tiered track configurations that are easy to assemble and enhance play experience by preventing tipping and offering customizable track layouts.
Implementation Method 1
the track connector comprises a first and second threaded male member, wherein the first threaded male member is received within the first opening of the first support column and the second threaded male member is received within the first opening of the second support column
Implementation Method 2
a first and second fastener, wherein, via a threaded engagement, the first fastener is coupled to the first threaded male member and the second fastener is coupled to the second threaded male member, thereby securing the track connector to the first and second support columns
Data Source
AI summary
A toy track assembly having a first and second support column, the first and second support columns each including at least one first opening. The assembly can also include a track connector, wherein the track connector includes a first and second threaded male member, wherein the first threaded male member is received within the first opening of the first support column and the second threaded male member is received within the first opening of the second support column. In addition, the assembly can include a first and second fastener, wherein, via a threaded engagement, the first fastener is coupled to the first threaded male member and the second fastener is coupled to the second threaded male member, thereby securing the track connector to the first and second support columns.