Week 11 - Sustainable Toy Design?

We began tonight on module one of the LEGO sustainable toy project as teams. Everyone is in a new group and has started on their pinball machine inventions. Looking beyond the aesthetic at just play, or more importantly the sustainability of play, in a very pure form is on our minds. Play should exist for kids in a way they can discover and adapt along with. Creating a magical experience is priority. 

Week 10 - Manufacturing

As we move into our final toy issues that revolve around sustainabilty, we had a sobering look into the world of toy manufacturing and the reality of factories overseas. As designers we have a big responsibility and power to effect change within the model of toy business. The choice of process, materials and manufacture affect more people than can be imagined. Can we make simple toys that engage kids? Let's see in project 3!

Week 9 - Project 2 Final Team Presentations

Tonight we had a short work session that culminated in a full class presentation of all the toy designs for project 2. Each team was responsible for all ideation, sketches and final working prototypes that best displayed each concept. Unlike true modelmaking, the level of detail is not entirely a focus here, the ability to play with the prototype and engage the audience is the goal. The reel is cool! 

Week 8 - Toy Patents

At the heart of most toys is a unique feature or mechanical idea, software module or innovative interaction. Many of these ideas, or intellectual properties, can be protected via a legal registration or Patent. Patents can be an important part of a toy's rollout and success, covering either the aesthetic form (design patent) or unique ability (mechanical patent). 

 

Week 7 - Work Studio Project 2

This week's class had all of us focus on our free toy project construction. Primarily our direction is centered on the prototype and it's functionality. A simple model can more than make up for a sketch in conveying your toy invention.