Yo-yo Off-Center String Gap Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yo-yos with adjustable string gaps require disassembly for adjustments, are prone to inadvertent changes in string gap due to internal rotative forces, and lack precision and speed in gap adjustments, making them time-consuming and unreliable for varying trick performances.
Innovation Solution
A yo-yo design featuring an off-center adjustment apparatus with a multi-thru-bore nut and user-positionable body member that allows lateral sliding without rotation, enabling quick and precise adjustment of the string gap using an allen screw, which remains accessible in the assembled state, thus preventing internal forces from altering the gap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the string gap is made larger to reduce friction and extend sleep time, then the yo-yo can sleep longer, but the responsiveness decreases and the yo-yo may not return on command
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an adjustable string gap mechanism that allows the gap size to be dynamically changed based on the tricks being performed. The body member can be positioned at different locations along the axle member, enabling the user to optimize the string gap for either extended sleep time (larger gap) or improved responsiveness (smaller gap), thus resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the string gap is made smaller to improve responsiveness and enable on-command return, then the yo-yo returns more reliably, but friction increases and sleep time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable string gap mechanism allows users to dynamically adjust the gap size to match the specific trick requirements. For tricks requiring reliable on-command return, the gap can be reduced to improve responsiveness. For tricks requiring extended sleep duration, the gap can be increased to minimize friction, thus resolving the contradiction between responsiveness and sleep time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used, then string gap adjustment is possible, but disassembly is required and adjustments are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the adjustment mechanism to be self-service, allowing users to adjust the string gap without disassembling the yo-yo. The body member can be directly positioned on the axle member and secured with a set screw, enabling quick adjustments during play. This eliminates the time-consuming disassembly and reassembly process while maintaining full adjustability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used, then string gap can be modified, but internal rotative forces can inadvertently change the gap setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustment mechanism from the rotating components, placing it on the stationary axle member. The body member positions itself relative to the stationary axle and is secured by a set screw, isolating the adjustment mechanism from the rotative forces generated during yo-yo operation. This prevents inadvertent changes to the string gap setting while maintaining adjustability.
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
Enables rapid, secure, and precise adjustment of the string gap, tailoring performance characteristics for various tricks, reducing wear, and enhancing the yo-yo's sleep time, responsiveness, and smoothness on the string, allowing players of all skill levels to perform a wide range of tricks without needing multiple yo-yos.
Implementation Method 1
by minimizing friction in the yo-yo's components, one can maximize the yo-yo's sleep time
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a yo-yo that includes unique features that enable a user to adjust the yo-yo's string gap. In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the yo-yo's side assemblies includes a screw engaged to a nut that has two thru-bores located in a side-by-side relation. The screw is located to one side of the yo-yo's axis of rotation and can be rotated by a user to adjust the position of the associated side assembly on the yo-yo's axle structure. By appropriate positioning of the side assembly, a user can adjust the yo-yo's performance characteristics.