Dice Language
Showing posts with label 2.2 Project Two. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2.2 Project Two. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Karan Proposal
Launch It.
What is it?
Launch it uses a few fingers to launch the hooked piece into the air and lets it soar because of its wings. It is launched with the use of a rubber band and tension.
Why is this toy fun?
This toy is only pocket size with a length of 8cm and a width of ½ cm total. It fits easily into the pocket and whenever we are bored we pull it out and launch it, only to go retrieve it and start the process all over again. As kids when alone we would always try to invent games to keep us busy, this is one of those games that actually came to be. It can soar whatever distance we want it to by just changing its angle. On a windy day, the wings open out even further and the eagle (the hooked piece) flies out even further.
How to use:
Hook the rubber band into the piece with a hooked front. Place the rubber band into the hook on the second piece. Use two fingers and pull back the first piece. Aim at the angle you want and release. As the eagle (hooked piece) is released it flies upwards and because of airflow causes the wings to open, this allows the toy to soar longer in the sky, almost like an improved and faster version of a paper plane.
Improvement:
To improve the toy I would maybe put some graphics on the plastic itself to make it aesthetically pleasing. The wings could use a more durable yet lightweight plastic. The wings should be positioned more at an angle so that when aimed it would fly with an upwards motion.
User feedback:
“ It is fun and also keeps you moving at the same time, despite its size.”
“ Something I can take with me anywhere, and use it anytime.”
“ Simple concept yet so fun”
Final:
The final toy would be made out of plastic and would be inexpensive to reproduce. The cost of this product is low which allows the user to replace it if anything happens to the product. It is also fairly small and light weight letting the user keep it with them at all times
Project Two-Procrastipencil
Overview of Product
The Procrastipencil is a plastic mechanical pencil with a scoop and ball at the end where the eraser would normally be. The ball is handily made of knead able eraser so that it can be replenished, reshaped and sized any way you like. The cup at the end of the pencil has a scoop-like shape that comes to a point and acts like the backboard of a basketball net. The tip can pull down to protect the eraser when it is put away in a bag or pencil case.
Why it is Fun
The purpose of the toy portion of the pencil is to get the ball or eraser into the cup at the end of the pencil. The process is simple and involves little or no explaining because the same concept has been used in different forms for decades. The Procrastipencil combines the utilitarian purposes of a pencil with the playful aspects of the original ball-in-cup game; creating a toy that is truly dual purpose. The fact that it is a playful twist on the pencil allows for a broad target age range because most people cannot resist it.
The Procrastipencil is a plastic mechanical pencil with a scoop and ball at the end where the eraser would normally be. The ball is handily made of knead able eraser so that it can be replenished, reshaped and sized any way you like. The cup at the end of the pencil has a scoop-like shape that comes to a point and acts like the backboard of a basketball net. The tip can pull down to protect the eraser when it is put away in a bag or pencil case.
Why it is Fun
The purpose of the toy portion of the pencil is to get the ball or eraser into the cup at the end of the pencil. The process is simple and involves little or no explaining because the same concept has been used in different forms for decades. The Procrastipencil combines the utilitarian purposes of a pencil with the playful aspects of the original ball-in-cup game; creating a toy that is truly dual purpose. The fact that it is a playful twist on the pencil allows for a broad target age range because most people cannot resist it.
Prototype
My prototype was simply a drawing pencil with a piece of illustration board in a cone-like shape attached on the tip by glue and duct tape. A piece of embroidery thread protruded through the middle of the cup and the ball of eraser was stuck on the other end.
Feedback
User testing concluded that:
Aesthetics could definitely be improved
Eraser was too big (easily fixed on the spot)
String was not strong enough
Users enjoyed:
The scoop shape of the cup which made it easier to succeed
The utilitarian function of the pencil
The game in general, they found it very addicting
Lesley's Toy Proposal: The Puzzling Maze
Overview
-Users found it very easy to understand and interpret the intended use of the product.
-They found it challenging and to be a good concept.
-It was entertaining as a “multi-purpose toy”
-They suggested the product have a laminate surface, thus allowing the user to trace directly on the puzzle
-They also thought the 25 pieces would lack variation, causing the game to get boring and repetitive after few uses.
Improvements
To further improve the Puzzling Maze, I decided to make it a set of 200 puzzle pieces that allows the user to make endless amount of make versions. The pieces are cut in shapes that make the pieces to fit well with a variety of other pieces. The puzzle will have a laminate surface and will come with multiple dry-erase markers. Also, I decided to include a timer in the set, offering the option for the user to challenge themselves and improve their skills on their own when not always with others.
-Puzzling Mazes is a game derived from a combination of puzzles and mazes. This combination creates the ultimate challenge for problem solvers.
-The product comes with 200 puzzle pieces, allowing endless maze possibilities. Some dry-erase markers and a timer, for those who like being under pressure, are also included.
- The advantage to this 200 piece set is that you can make puzzles in varying sizes and maze trails to dictate the complexity of the product. Also, you can play with other, either working together or against your friend in a racing fashion against each other or the timer! The dry-erase markers allow you to re-use the product endlessly.
Prototype
-The prototype was made of a digitally constructed maze that was then mounted on hardboard. After, it was cut into 25 piece puzzle set.
-The prototype was fairly effective in relation to judging the actual product. It was very easy to see exactly how the user would interact with it.
User Testing & Feedback
-Users found it very easy to understand and interpret the intended use of the product.
-They found it challenging and to be a good concept.
-It was entertaining as a “multi-purpose toy”
-They suggested the product have a laminate surface, thus allowing the user to trace directly on the puzzle
-They also thought the 25 pieces would lack variation, causing the game to get boring and repetitive after few uses.
Improvements
To further improve the Puzzling Maze, I decided to make it a set of 200 puzzle pieces that allows the user to make endless amount of make versions. The pieces are cut in shapes that make the pieces to fit well with a variety of other pieces. The puzzle will have a laminate surface and will come with multiple dry-erase markers. Also, I decided to include a timer in the set, offering the option for the user to challenge themselves and improve their skills on their own when not always with others.
Gretchen's Toy Proposal
Labyrinth 2
You can travel with this toy anywhere you go. Labyrinth 2 is the new advanced version of the original Labyrinth. What makes this toy more complex and even more difficult is that you are not only provided with one ball but two. Now your wrist can get a more hardcore workout.
The way that you play Labyrinth 2 is simple. You are given two balls, one white and one yellow. There is a whole at the side of the box where both balls can be inserted. As you would play in the original Labyrinth, your job is to get the ball in the appropriate hole. With labyrinth 2, trying to handle both balls is the challenge. Each ball has its own hole to drop into which are placed on opposite corners. Balancing both balls is the challenge and also preventing them from dropping into the trick holes makes it more difficult. If you do happen to fall within the trick holes there is an exit hole at the bottom of the box that will retrieve your ball and give you a chance to start over.
During the user testing, it was obvious that rules were not needed for this toy. What was expected for this toy is basic knowledge. Although the concept of the toy was not new, having two balls is more difficult.
User Testing Results
· Rules were not needed. People knew what was intended by their previous experience with the original Labyrinth.
· Users missed the fact about putting both balls in the box at the same time.
· The entering hole needed to be relocated. It was too far to the side and can easily fall out when tilting the box
· The existing holes needed to be bigger. The balls would get stuck at would cause the user to shake it to get it out.
· There needed to be fewer holes, because the fact that you are playing with two balls makes it more difficult to begin with.
· Have two balls in the box is a good concept
· The design of the box itself needed to be more appealing. The color of it was too boring and dull. If the walls or the exterior of the box were colorful then it would be more attractive and interesting to play.
Design Improvements.
· The entering hole will be placed on the bottom right hand corner. It will be placed on the glass so that when the ball is dropped, it will fall right into the starting line, preventing any balls from falling out.
· The interior of the box will be decorated as requested. It will have more vibrant and fun colors so that the game itself will be more attractive and more playful. Different designs would be presented for a specific group of audience, i.e. one for males would have more bold and solid colors and one for females would have more soft and comforting colors.
·The trick holes will be limited since the fact of balancing two balls at once is difficult enough.
· The trick holes itself will be cut bigger and also have cleaner edges so that the balls will not get stuck.
You can travel with this toy anywhere you go. Labyrinth 2 is the new advanced version of the original Labyrinth. What makes this toy more complex and even more difficult is that you are not only provided with one ball but two. Now your wrist can get a more hardcore workout.
The way that you play Labyrinth 2 is simple. You are given two balls, one white and one yellow. There is a whole at the side of the box where both balls can be inserted. As you would play in the original Labyrinth, your job is to get the ball in the appropriate hole. With labyrinth 2, trying to handle both balls is the challenge. Each ball has its own hole to drop into which are placed on opposite corners. Balancing both balls is the challenge and also preventing them from dropping into the trick holes makes it more difficult. If you do happen to fall within the trick holes there is an exit hole at the bottom of the box that will retrieve your ball and give you a chance to start over.
During the user testing, it was obvious that rules were not needed for this toy. What was expected for this toy is basic knowledge. Although the concept of the toy was not new, having two balls is more difficult.
User Testing Results
· Rules were not needed. People knew what was intended by their previous experience with the original Labyrinth.
· Users missed the fact about putting both balls in the box at the same time.
· The entering hole needed to be relocated. It was too far to the side and can easily fall out when tilting the box
· The existing holes needed to be bigger. The balls would get stuck at would cause the user to shake it to get it out.
· There needed to be fewer holes, because the fact that you are playing with two balls makes it more difficult to begin with.
· Have two balls in the box is a good concept
· The design of the box itself needed to be more appealing. The color of it was too boring and dull. If the walls or the exterior of the box were colorful then it would be more attractive and interesting to play.
Design Improvements.
· The entering hole will be placed on the bottom right hand corner. It will be placed on the glass so that when the ball is dropped, it will fall right into the starting line, preventing any balls from falling out.
· The interior of the box will be decorated as requested. It will have more vibrant and fun colors so that the game itself will be more attractive and more playful. Different designs would be presented for a specific group of audience, i.e. one for males would have more bold and solid colors and one for females would have more soft and comforting colors.
·The trick holes will be limited since the fact of balancing two balls at once is difficult enough.
· The trick holes itself will be cut bigger and also have cleaner edges so that the balls will not get stuck.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Pop Culture Cube- Kaitlynd
History of Rubik's Cube
The Rubik's Cube was invented in 1974 by Emo Rubik. The cube is a 3-D mechanical puzzle with six 3X3 faces of six solid colours. Using a pivot mechanism in the centre, the colours are mixed, and the cube is solved when each face is a solid colour again. Rubik received Hungarian and U.S patents for his design, and around the world other inventors with similar designs received patents in their countries. Even though there were other variations of the same idea being generated, the Rubik's Cube is the most dominant and well known compared to its competitors. Still keeping true to its original six solid colour design, this popular toy is being remodeled and evolving on toy shelves everywhere.
Pop Culture Cube
Pop Culture Cube is an evolution of the traditional mechanical puzzle.
Instead of six solid colours, there are images of pop culture figures on each face. Altering the conclusion away from forming a solid colour, to forming Marilyn Monroe and John Lennon's faces. The squares have
drastically important placement to correctly construct each individuals face, which increases the cubes difficulty level compared to straight coloured cubes. Working to solve the puzzle with the correct placement of
each figures features, gives this classic puzzle a new dimension of fun. The Pop Culture Cube has the potential to attract fans of the famous, and become not only a puzzle, but a collectors item.
The product underwent user testing and some concerns were high lighted.
*Testers felt it was necessary for the cube to come with guide photos of each face
to have as a reference when working on the puzzle
*Some felt that there should be more background showing behind each face to make
it easier to complete
* A suggestion was to eliminate the variety of colour in each photo, and return to the
original colour scheme with the faces etched on. So you are still dealing with solid
colours and outlines of faces.
Taking the user testing into consideration, all Pop Culture Cubes will be sold with a key of images to follow when working on the puzzle, and more background space to help distinguish where each cube belongs. The Pop Culture Cube is a very enticing puzzle and will be challenging and fun for more of a adult demographic.
Project Two: Komal's Toy Proposal
PROTOTYPE:
HOW TO PLAY:
The hook is to be attached at the back of the pen or pencil. When one rotates the pencil the ball is to be catched in a cup.
MATERIAL TO BE USED:
The materials which will be used to make this toy are; a wooden cup, a plastic hook and a jute string attached to a wooden ball having a smiling face expression on it.
FEATURES THAT MAKES IT FUN:
It is something enjoyable. People of any age can play with it and have a good time pass. Catching a ball in a cup is tricky and fun. One keeps on playing until catches the ball at least once. It can be attached or removed as per user’s choice. If one wants to write something it can be removed so that it might not disturb during work. It is portable, can be placed in handbags. Whether one is traveling in bus or attending a boring lecture one can have fun. It does not have clicking or another annoying noise to disturb others. Anybody who sees it even for the first time can play it because it is simple and does not need any instructions to be followed.
TEST OF PROTOTYPE:
Many people played with the prototype, mostly had fun. Few things which I noticed and others mentioned were:
- The size of the hook was too big
- Few pencils or pens were wider or loser to enter the hook
-few advised me to attach an eraser with the string rather than wooden ball.
IMPROVEMENTS:
The size of the whole toy can be reduced as well as toy's hook could be made available in different sizes so that it can be attached to various sizes of pen or pencil. Eraser is not compulsory as it is removable.
A hook toy to be attached at top of the pen or pencil in order to play with it. Rotate pen or pencil to catch the ball attached to string in a cup. Available in different sizes.
Project Two - Toy Concepts - Nicole Michaud
Toy Concepts:
1. Domino Words
Description
A version of the popular game “Scrabble”
Contains dominos that have letters written on them
-using dominos, connect them together to create words
-individual letters have point values
-each person scores points for the number located on the domino next to the letter
2. Dice Expressions
Description
Contains a series of magnetic dice that have letters and words written on them
-create short stories or expressions with the dice on a metal surface
-easy to be creative and express yourself during any time of day at any place
3. Dice Language
Description
A version of the popular game “Scrabble” and "Boggle"
Contains 8 dice that have letters written on them
-each player get 3 rolls of the dice to create words, connect the dice together to create words
-individual letters have point values written on them
-each person scores points for the number of letters they use and the point score on each letter
-add the number of letters a player uses with the points they receive to find their score
4. Cubes
Description
Contains a square board with a grid printed onto it and a series of geometric pieces
-form a square shape within the grid using as many geometric shapes possible
-score points by using the most pieces
-each piece has a different score value
5. Connect It
Description
A version of the popular game “Connect 4”
There are 5 horizontal 3-D levels on this game board
-pieces fit into these levels
-there are 2-5 teams
-game players must connect rows of 5 pieces in order to score points
-pieces can be connected vertically, horizontally or diagonally
1. Domino Words
Description
A version of the popular game “Scrabble”
Contains dominos that have letters written on them
-using dominos, connect them together to create words
-individual letters have point values
-each person scores points for the number located on the domino next to the letter
2. Dice Expressions
Description
Contains a series of magnetic dice that have letters and words written on them
-create short stories or expressions with the dice on a metal surface
-easy to be creative and express yourself during any time of day at any place
3. Dice Language
Description
A version of the popular game “Scrabble” and "Boggle"
Contains 8 dice that have letters written on them
-each player get 3 rolls of the dice to create words, connect the dice together to create words
-individual letters have point values written on them
-each person scores points for the number of letters they use and the point score on each letter
-add the number of letters a player uses with the points they receive to find their score
4. Cubes
Description
Contains a square board with a grid printed onto it and a series of geometric pieces
-form a square shape within the grid using as many geometric shapes possible
-score points by using the most pieces
-each piece has a different score value
5. Connect It
Description
A version of the popular game “Connect 4”
There are 5 horizontal 3-D levels on this game board
-pieces fit into these levels
-there are 2-5 teams
-game players must connect rows of 5 pieces in order to score points
-pieces can be connected vertically, horizontally or diagonally
Project 2 Proposal - Tomato Stress Ball
Overview
This toy was designed for users to relieve stress with, much like a regular faceless stress ball. Although most people are able to use it, its quirky looks and expression have a stronger appeal to teenagers and young adults. Its bright colour is what makes it attractive, and the angry appearance of the tomato adds to the humour.
This toy will interest young adults because oftentimes they are too busy and overworked to have the time to concentrate on learning how to play with a more complicated toy. This stress ball does not require much attentiveness or intellect to use, as it can be something a person plays with subconsciously. It is so natural to know how to use this toy because of the malleable texture. Stress balls are also useful for physical therapy.
The small and compact size of it fits well into the palm of a hand, and also allows the toy to be very easily portable. The material is soft enough so it would not hurt when squeezed or thrown, but is also hard enough to resist breaking.
Prototype
This prototype was made by filling a red balloon to a good palm size with plain white flour. It was then decorated with green felt for the tomato's leaves, and the expression was drawn on with marker.
The rubbery material of a balloon is stretchy which is ideal for physical manipulation. Flour is light fine powder, but is also able to become hard when packed together tightly.
User Testing and Feedback
Improvements for the Final Product
Instead of just a tomato, it would be good to expand on a variety of fruits with different expressions. A single one of these could be a collector's item, and altogether it could be a set. The size of each of these will be roughly the size of a tennis ball for better grip.
As for materials, the durability of a balloon's rubber is not very high, so the outer shell will have to be made thicker. The entire outer shell will be made out of rubber, including the leaves and stems of the fruits, which will allow those areas to be slightly malleable as well. Flour feels good from first use (albeit on the soft side), but after much use it tends to clump together inside the stress ball.
Many regular stress balls are made from foam rubber that is injected as a liquid into a mold. The same technique can be applied to this toy as well. With a mold, many different kinds of shells could be made possible, so that the shape is not stuck as only a sphere.
Research: stressballs.ca
This toy was designed for users to relieve stress with, much like a regular faceless stress ball. Although most people are able to use it, its quirky looks and expression have a stronger appeal to teenagers and young adults. Its bright colour is what makes it attractive, and the angry appearance of the tomato adds to the humour.
This toy will interest young adults because oftentimes they are too busy and overworked to have the time to concentrate on learning how to play with a more complicated toy. This stress ball does not require much attentiveness or intellect to use, as it can be something a person plays with subconsciously. It is so natural to know how to use this toy because of the malleable texture. Stress balls are also useful for physical therapy.
The small and compact size of it fits well into the palm of a hand, and also allows the toy to be very easily portable. The material is soft enough so it would not hurt when squeezed or thrown, but is also hard enough to resist breaking.
Prototype
This prototype was made by filling a red balloon to a good palm size with plain white flour. It was then decorated with green felt for the tomato's leaves, and the expression was drawn on with marker.
The rubbery material of a balloon is stretchy which is ideal for physical manipulation. Flour is light fine powder, but is also able to become hard when packed together tightly.
User Testing and Feedback
- Does not retain its shape quickly, which makes it annoying to have to expend more effort into putting it back into shape after a person is done using it.
- Flour might be too soft of a powder to use because it makes the stress ball give away its shape easily.
- The leaf will fall off eventually.
- Because it is a tomato, having a leaf is understandable, but having a leaf made out of felt does not feel right. It gives off a really soft and fuzzy feeling, similar to that of a teddy bear. It makes the user associate it with nice, cozy things instead and does not fit the feeling of something made to have its life squeezed out of it.
- The size could be a bit larger -- a tennis ball size.
- The current expression makes the user feel angrier at it.
- More variety in expressions: horrified, in pain, smiling, purple and screaming.
- Could be done with other fruits as well.
Improvements for the Final Product
Instead of just a tomato, it would be good to expand on a variety of fruits with different expressions. A single one of these could be a collector's item, and altogether it could be a set. The size of each of these will be roughly the size of a tennis ball for better grip.As for materials, the durability of a balloon's rubber is not very high, so the outer shell will have to be made thicker. The entire outer shell will be made out of rubber, including the leaves and stems of the fruits, which will allow those areas to be slightly malleable as well. Flour feels good from first use (albeit on the soft side), but after much use it tends to clump together inside the stress ball.
Many regular stress balls are made from foam rubber that is injected as a liquid into a mold. The same technique can be applied to this toy as well. With a mold, many different kinds of shells could be made possible, so that the shape is not stuck as only a sphere.
Research: stressballs.ca
MyCube: The Personal Cube Puzzle Game!
History of the Rubik's Cube:
The Rubik's Cube (initially introduced as the 'Magic Cube') was invented by Ernő Rubik, a Hungarian architect, designer and university professor, in 1974. Although interestingly, In March 1970, Larry Nichols invented a 2×2×2 "Puzzle with Pieces Rotatable in Groups" and filed a Canadian patent application for it. Nichols's cube was held together with magnets. He was granted a U.S. Patent in 1972, two years before Rubik invented his improved cube. There have been others with similar puzzles and patents before Rubik's as well. A number of others have been patented in different countries after rubik's, too, leading me to understand that while the general consensus is that Rubik is the inventor of the one and only cube puzzle-that isn't necessarily the case. Regardless of whether or not it was the first, it is certainly is the most well known version. As of January 2009, 350 million cubes have sold worldwide, making it the world's top-selling puzzle game. It is widely considered to be the world's best-selling toy.
My Toy Proposition:
What differentiates my design idea from that of a traditional Rubik's Cube is it's customizability. My toy would include a basic black plastic puzzle cube, and would come with a number of blank adhesive sheets with pre-cut and sized squares that can have any image you choose printed onto them with your computer and printer. Alternatively, you could paint or draw on the sheets to have a hand made image. Because you can customize the images on the puzzle, there are limitless possibilities for how your cube looks, and is played with. With multiple adhesive sheets given, the images could be changed, creating a new puzzle and challenge. The cube would also come with a small plastic stand, so the puzzle could be displayed if one chose to do so.
What makes this toy fun?
• It is challenging, and has an objective.
• Nostalgic association.
• It can be played with only one person.
• It is customizable, and could be one of a kind.
• Because you chose the images, it would be visually pleasing to everyone, regardless of personal taste.
• Based on the images chosen, it could simply be placed on display as an 'objet d'art'.
• It is small and relatively portable.
• It offers variations of the original game-Numbers could be used in place of images/colours, or black and white images could be used to increase difficulty level.
• It is a universal icon-It would be difficult to find someone who didn't understand the objective of a Rubik's cube.
• The puzzle can appeal to everyone, of all ages.
• Corporate logos could be printed on the cube, turning it into an advertisement tool.
Design improvements based on interaction:
• The all black and white design of the images on my cube made it potentially too difficult to solve. The colour association of the squares seemed to be an integral tool used when attempting to solve the puzzle. To avoid potentially unwanted frustration, I would add certain instructions to point this out, and offer the black and white image option as a way to increase the difficulty level.
• A traditional Rubik's Cube can be taken apart relatively easily. By turning one side and prying an edge cube away from the centre, the piece easily dislodges making it easy to "solve" by taking it apart and reassembling it in a solved state. For my cube I would change the mechanics of how it's pieced together slightly such that no cheating is possible. Cheating is never fun (unless your idea of fun is tricking your friends and colleagues into the notion that you're much more skilled than you really are. In that case, you probably have no use for real games at all and are pre-occupied with mind games instead)
• I wasn't able to do this with my prototype-but the final version I would like to be made of 100% recycled plastic. Making products as sustainable as possible seems like an obvious necessity-as well as an additional selling point, specifically to OCAD students who are taught to take environmental responsibility seriously.
• An even smaller, keychain version could be introduced as well. The more portable the toy is, the more likely it is to be played with.
The Rubik's Cube (initially introduced as the 'Magic Cube') was invented by Ernő Rubik, a Hungarian architect, designer and university professor, in 1974. Although interestingly, In March 1970, Larry Nichols invented a 2×2×2 "Puzzle with Pieces Rotatable in Groups" and filed a Canadian patent application for it. Nichols's cube was held together with magnets. He was granted a U.S. Patent in 1972, two years before Rubik invented his improved cube. There have been others with similar puzzles and patents before Rubik's as well. A number of others have been patented in different countries after rubik's, too, leading me to understand that while the general consensus is that Rubik is the inventor of the one and only cube puzzle-that isn't necessarily the case. Regardless of whether or not it was the first, it is certainly is the most well known version. As of January 2009, 350 million cubes have sold worldwide, making it the world's top-selling puzzle game. It is widely considered to be the world's best-selling toy.
My Toy Proposition:
What differentiates my design idea from that of a traditional Rubik's Cube is it's customizability. My toy would include a basic black plastic puzzle cube, and would come with a number of blank adhesive sheets with pre-cut and sized squares that can have any image you choose printed onto them with your computer and printer. Alternatively, you could paint or draw on the sheets to have a hand made image. Because you can customize the images on the puzzle, there are limitless possibilities for how your cube looks, and is played with. With multiple adhesive sheets given, the images could be changed, creating a new puzzle and challenge. The cube would also come with a small plastic stand, so the puzzle could be displayed if one chose to do so.
What makes this toy fun?
• It is challenging, and has an objective.
• Nostalgic association.
• It can be played with only one person.
• It is customizable, and could be one of a kind.
• Because you chose the images, it would be visually pleasing to everyone, regardless of personal taste.
• Based on the images chosen, it could simply be placed on display as an 'objet d'art'.
• It is small and relatively portable.
• It offers variations of the original game-Numbers could be used in place of images/colours, or black and white images could be used to increase difficulty level.
• It is a universal icon-It would be difficult to find someone who didn't understand the objective of a Rubik's cube.
• The puzzle can appeal to everyone, of all ages.
• Corporate logos could be printed on the cube, turning it into an advertisement tool.
Design improvements based on interaction:
• The all black and white design of the images on my cube made it potentially too difficult to solve. The colour association of the squares seemed to be an integral tool used when attempting to solve the puzzle. To avoid potentially unwanted frustration, I would add certain instructions to point this out, and offer the black and white image option as a way to increase the difficulty level.
• A traditional Rubik's Cube can be taken apart relatively easily. By turning one side and prying an edge cube away from the centre, the piece easily dislodges making it easy to "solve" by taking it apart and reassembling it in a solved state. For my cube I would change the mechanics of how it's pieced together slightly such that no cheating is possible. Cheating is never fun (unless your idea of fun is tricking your friends and colleagues into the notion that you're much more skilled than you really are. In that case, you probably have no use for real games at all and are pre-occupied with mind games instead)
• I wasn't able to do this with my prototype-but the final version I would like to be made of 100% recycled plastic. Making products as sustainable as possible seems like an obvious necessity-as well as an additional selling point, specifically to OCAD students who are taught to take environmental responsibility seriously.
• An even smaller, keychain version could be introduced as well. The more portable the toy is, the more likely it is to be played with.
A MODERN SPIN ON A CLASSIC STORY
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Although there are many theories to where exactly Chess originated, it was always a popular game of logic. In the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance, Chess was a “luxury” game. It was part of the aristocratic culture. It was also used to teach people war strategy. In 18th century, Benjamin Franklin wrote about Chess, “several very valuable qualities of the mind, useful in the course of human life, are to be acquired and strengthened through by it ”. He outlines three strategies that we learn from chess: foresight, circumspection, and caution. Although today it is still one of the world’s most popular games, it appears to be loosing its touch with the younger adults and teenagers.
I propose that we reinvent Chess in a way that would bring its popularity back. Below you can see a concept of a Chess set that would appeal to a majority of young population. It would feature few sets of game pieces and not just old and boring black and white. I propose that we create four sets. One after the most famous American animated sitcom “The Simpsons” featuring Homer and Marge as King and Queen in the nude and various other “The Simpsons” characters. Nude King, Queen and Bishops would appeal to the young adult group rather then kids and will defiantly bring around lots of laughter and discussion. The second set would be made after yet another American television sitcom “Family Guy”. The third set would be designed after the multiple award-winning film director and film producer Tim Burton. His “dark” characters would appeal to the alternative group of young adults. Lastly, the fourth set would be made to resemble our “lovable” politicians and our neighbor’s politicians.
Initially I was planning of only having two sets, but after observing people play with the concept Chess set and hearing their feedback I have decided to make four. Also as you can see in the photo below, I have used Rayman’s Raving Rabbits as one of the sets, but decided to go against it when most of the testers were unaware of the characters and were not able to relate to them. Furthermore, some of the test players felt “childish” playing with pink rabbits. Another thing that will be changed is the board, some of the test player thought of the board as “too girlish and flamboyant”. That is why I believe that an elegant wooden box with four draws for sets storage and a marble black and white game board on top would be much more popular (simply because the owner would want to exhibit the game in the open space rather then hiding it in the drawer). It would be a positive change, because it would strike up conversation and the desire of others to purchase a similar stylish, yet very fun game. Of course to improve the usability of the system we would need to clearly distinguish the characters according to their function.
I strongly believe this game is fun because it is very elegant on appearance. Furthermore it is very addictive, educational and you can always pause a game and come back to it on a later date. Many people would be able to relate to the characters and know each character individually, which may lead to some fun role playing. It is a very simple game to learn and requires no feedback like many other “techy” games. Since it is a reinvention of a classic game all the affordances are already planned out, we just have to make sure to include a very simple set of rules to allow the user to successfully employ those affordance. The game requires no mapping as it has no controls, this makes the game more fun (dues to its simplicity). The game is also fun due to its physical path constrains and logical constrains. The game facilitates thought and each time you play it is a whole different game. Although the game has semantic constrains that rely on the knowledge of the pieces, this problem can be easily resolved if we clearly identify the Chess pieces and their functions. Eventually the game would be so addictive that it would put the player in state of habituation, where he/she will no longer be thinking of the rules, but will apply logic to advance on the next level of the game.
Thus I strongly believe this game of Chess would be a guaranteed best seller; a modern spin on a classic story.
I propose that we reinvent Chess in a way that would bring its popularity back. Below you can see a concept of a Chess set that would appeal to a majority of young population. It would feature few sets of game pieces and not just old and boring black and white. I propose that we create four sets. One after the most famous American animated sitcom “The Simpsons” featuring Homer and Marge as King and Queen in the nude and various other “The Simpsons” characters. Nude King, Queen and Bishops would appeal to the young adult group rather then kids and will defiantly bring around lots of laughter and discussion. The second set would be made after yet another American television sitcom “Family Guy”. The third set would be designed after the multiple award-winning film director and film producer Tim Burton. His “dark” characters would appeal to the alternative group of young adults. Lastly, the fourth set would be made to resemble our “lovable” politicians and our neighbor’s politicians.
Initially I was planning of only having two sets, but after observing people play with the concept Chess set and hearing their feedback I have decided to make four. Also as you can see in the photo below, I have used Rayman’s Raving Rabbits as one of the sets, but decided to go against it when most of the testers were unaware of the characters and were not able to relate to them. Furthermore, some of the test players felt “childish” playing with pink rabbits. Another thing that will be changed is the board, some of the test player thought of the board as “too girlish and flamboyant”. That is why I believe that an elegant wooden box with four draws for sets storage and a marble black and white game board on top would be much more popular (simply because the owner would want to exhibit the game in the open space rather then hiding it in the drawer). It would be a positive change, because it would strike up conversation and the desire of others to purchase a similar stylish, yet very fun game. Of course to improve the usability of the system we would need to clearly distinguish the characters according to their function.
I strongly believe this game is fun because it is very elegant on appearance. Furthermore it is very addictive, educational and you can always pause a game and come back to it on a later date. Many people would be able to relate to the characters and know each character individually, which may lead to some fun role playing. It is a very simple game to learn and requires no feedback like many other “techy” games. Since it is a reinvention of a classic game all the affordances are already planned out, we just have to make sure to include a very simple set of rules to allow the user to successfully employ those affordance. The game requires no mapping as it has no controls, this makes the game more fun (dues to its simplicity). The game is also fun due to its physical path constrains and logical constrains. The game facilitates thought and each time you play it is a whole different game. Although the game has semantic constrains that rely on the knowledge of the pieces, this problem can be easily resolved if we clearly identify the Chess pieces and their functions. Eventually the game would be so addictive that it would put the player in state of habituation, where he/she will no longer be thinking of the rules, but will apply logic to advance on the next level of the game.
Thus I strongly believe this game of Chess would be a guaranteed best seller; a modern spin on a classic story.
Kyla's Toy Proposal
What is this toy?
This toy is a collection of many magnetic images and shapes that may be used on any magnetic surface to create shapes, patterns, and new images.
This toy is fun for several reasons. First of all it allows for creativity and imagination and anyone can play! Because the magnets are of not only images but also shapes, this allows for limitless restrictions of creativity. Individuals can combine both images and shapes to create new things and a unique scene of their own. Furthermore, it is easy to understand how to use the toy. Just be looking at the magnets one may easily understand that it is as easy as changing and rearranging the magnets into something new and unique. In addition it is a simple toy and does not require a certain amount of time t be used like a board game. The user may pick up and put down the toy as they please. It can also be a nice decoration for the fridge and you can arrange the magnets around pictures and cut outs.
Improvements
To improve this toy I would make sure that much stronger magnets were used. Two of the magnets failed to stick properly to magnetic surfaces and therefore I would need to ensure quality magnets would be used. I would also make sure that the magnets looked much more proffesional. The images would be edited and coloured on the computer. Finally, I would include more images and shapes for the collection.
User comments
"I don't really see you could improve it really...other then use stronger magnets"
"It is very entertaining."
"I could see this on my fridge."
"Hey this is actually really fun."
Final Product
In addition to using better magnets and editing and colouring the images on the computer I would create other themed collections. For my prototype I made a beach theme. However, if I were to create a final product I would have several themed collections people could buy seperately and then combine with the collections they already own. Some possible themes could be outer space, "the office", fashion, video games, popular movies etc. A unique and fun name for the toy would also need to be established such as "Magnet Magic!" or "Mega Magnets!"
Project Two Proposal- The Tube/The Stress reliever
The Tube- The Stress reliever
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What makes this toy fun?
This toy is designed for adults as a stress reducer. It works in many ways for the user:
- Bring out the pleasure of laughter
- Have an objective to achieve
- The process of achieving the object, works as a stress reliever
The process from a to b of this toy is the get the ball at the end of the string inside the hole on the structure of the toy on the side.
It takes some time for the user to get the ball in it’s objective location, but this is what keeps the player going and wanting to get achieve the goal over and over again.
It’s small, portable form would be ideal for taking it with to the office, studio or school space. During breaks, this could help to mentally relieve the mind and body and calm down, have some laughs and relax. It will also stimulate the brain, as it exercises it. Blood flow is very important while working, this could help the user be a better student, employee, artist, anything.
Prototype and User Interaction:
- Photographs of first prototype for user testing
Video of user testing
User Testing/ Comments:
- It can get quite frustrating when the ball isn’t going in after the first few tries, but the users did not stop trying. The irritation that was observed during the user testing did not seem to be bothering or stopping the process of achieving the objective.
- The frustration brought about laughter and giggling as the user kept on trying. This made the product of a success as a toy - Although the toy proved its point as a product of fun, it still needs some improvements
Improvements based on interactions:
- A Better handle for the user to hold on to
- Reduce the size of the toy
- Have a sound, for example a bell inside the ball to make the action process more interesting - Have the string made of clear material, for aesthetic value
- Have more than one hole to make the action more interesting and more challenging
- To avoid boredom, have different attachments of different shapes for different difficulty levels - Have the bottom closed, instead of open
- Hard material, but the ball must be of a softer plastic material to avoid injuries
FINAL Product
- Taking all the user comments and experiences into consideration, this is the final complete prototype for the toy.
*ORIGINAL prototype
*FINAL prototype
Possible shape attachments (as discussed before)
- These will make the challenge even harder for the user, if they wish to make the toy more interesting.
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What makes this toy fun?
This toy is designed for adults as a stress reducer. It works in many ways for the user:
- Bring out the pleasure of laughter
- Have an objective to achieve
- The process of achieving the object, works as a stress reliever
The process from a to b of this toy is the get the ball at the end of the string inside the hole on the structure of the toy on the side.
It takes some time for the user to get the ball in it’s objective location, but this is what keeps the player going and wanting to get achieve the goal over and over again.
It’s small, portable form would be ideal for taking it with to the office, studio or school space. During breaks, this could help to mentally relieve the mind and body and calm down, have some laughs and relax. It will also stimulate the brain, as it exercises it. Blood flow is very important while working, this could help the user be a better student, employee, artist, anything.
Prototype and User Interaction:
- Photographs of first prototype for user testing
Video of user testing
User Testing/ Comments:
- It can get quite frustrating when the ball isn’t going in after the first few tries, but the users did not stop trying. The irritation that was observed during the user testing did not seem to be bothering or stopping the process of achieving the objective.
- The frustration brought about laughter and giggling as the user kept on trying. This made the product of a success as a toy - Although the toy proved its point as a product of fun, it still needs some improvements
Improvements based on interactions:
- A Better handle for the user to hold on to
- Reduce the size of the toy
- Have a sound, for example a bell inside the ball to make the action process more interesting - Have the string made of clear material, for aesthetic value
- Have more than one hole to make the action more interesting and more challenging
- To avoid boredom, have different attachments of different shapes for different difficulty levels - Have the bottom closed, instead of open
- Hard material, but the ball must be of a softer plastic material to avoid injuries
FINAL Product
- Taking all the user comments and experiences into consideration, this is the final complete prototype for the toy.
*ORIGINAL prototype
*FINAL prototype
Possible shape attachments (as discussed before)
- These will make the challenge even harder for the user, if they wish to make the toy more interesting.
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