Toy Weapon Connector System with Spherical Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for toy weapons lack the ability to interchangeably connect multiple toy weapons to form a single assembly with a common handle, limiting play variations and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising two substantially identical connectors with engaging means that allow for releasable connection of multiple toy weapons, enabling them to form a single weapon assembly with a common handle through twist-locking or snap-fitting mechanisms, and potentially enabling electrical connections for signaling features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connector systems are used for toy weapons, then connection between weapons is possible, but the ability to interchangeably connect multiple weapons to form a single assembly with a common handle is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with substantially identical configuration on both ends, allowing it to function universally with any weapon equipped with the same connector type. This enables any weapon to be connected to any other weapon interchangeably, creating multiple weapon combinations from a single connector design, thereby achieving multi-functionality and versatility without increasing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If weapons are connected to form a single assembly, then play variations are enhanced, but the connection security and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a substantially spherical engagement surface that interfaces with a corresponding spherical recess in the weapon handle. This spherical geometry provides omnidirectional contact and natural self-centering, ensuring secure and reliable connection while allowing easy attachment and detachment. The curved surface distribution concentrates contact forces, maintaining connection strength even when multiple weapons are assembled together
3Adaptability or versatility
If identical connectors are used on both weapons, then interchangeable connection is enabled, but the engaging means configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
While the overall connector configuration is substantially identical on both ends for interchangeability, the engaging means incorporates asymmetric features such as a spherical surface on one side and a corresponding recess on the other. This asymmetric detail within the symmetric overall design enables secure engagement while maintaining the ability to connect any connector to any weapon, resolving the complexity issue by using simple asymmetric geometry rather than complex mechanical interlocking mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connector system for use in toy weaponry. The system comprises at least a first connector and a second connector of substantially identical configuration; the first and the second connectors being adapted to connect with a respective one of at least a first weapon and a second weapon. Each of the connectors comprises a first end adapted to connect with a handle portion of the respective weapon; and a second end having at least one engaging means; wherein the at least one engaging means of the first connector is configured to be releasably engageable with the at least one engaging means of the second connector, such that the first and the second weapons are connectable to form substantially a single weapon assembly operable at one common handle.