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Final Project

Here you can see the process for my final project idea, and my learnings as I am getting started in the documentation process.

Final Project

Week 1 - Concept

I want to explore creating a Montessori-inspired toy for my final project. Montessori toys use natural elements like wood, stone, and bio-materials. From my limited understanding, Montessori toys grow with a child as they develop, and the world around them creates more meaning.

My idea is to create wooden blocks using a CNC and laser cutter that interacts with the user and additional blocks potentially using sensors, color, and lights.

Inspiration and Research

I am not sure precisely the mode of interaction, though I am excited about exploring options. Currently, these are resources that inspire me and that I would like to continue exploring:

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2D and 3D Modeling

Week 1 - Sketch

Here I drew a sketch of three blocks stacked, and when the blue and yellow block are sandwhiching the middle block, the middle block turns green.

Final Project Idea

Week 2 to 3 - 3D CAD Models

Here are two prototypes:

A. A wooden cube with dimples.

Wooden Globe with Dimples by alethealucia on Sketchfab

B. A wooden globe with dimples.

Wooden Globe with Dimples by alethealucia on Sketchfab

In this design choice, I think adding dimples to the wooden block would allow for little hands to grab the block with ease and quickly. What size would the block need to be to still hold electronics inside of it?

Week 4 - Ideate

Overall, I am exploring different shapes.

At work, I came across this lesson and it is exploring “Biomimicry and Using Nature as a Design Partner” and specifically the Fibonacci Sequence. I wonder how I can apply this idea. Would it be through shapes, materials, or color?

Last update: February 16, 2022