Concept Design

Solution 2

Research for Second Solution

Once we moved on to coming up with a new solution for our problem we went back to the research-stage of the process. We found toys that were already in use to teach children about ramps in order to help us find a solution that would be more viable.

We came across the following photo of a possible solution:

A system similar to this was described to us during our first client meeting, where a ball could be dropped from a height to the ramps below. While we waited for client approval on this concept we thought of a concept design for this system.

The plan is to make a system similar to the one in the picture but modified to fit our project constraints.

Modification

In order for this to fit the clients desire for the children to experiment with many angles, the tracks would be movable rather than situated in fixed positions. Utilizing wooden pegs the tracks could be removed and placed at any location desired. Many different track lengths would have to be cut so that the design could then achieve different angles. However, anyone size of track section could only be used for a specified angle, as it would not otherwise fit into the system frame.

In order for the system to have a component of problem-solving, we would have cut different sized and shaped holes into the tracks so that not all vehicles will be able to pass through all of the tracks, also improving the children's shape-associations.

Did Not Move Forward with Design

We sent a concept design to our client for approval. Both Sylvia and Yvette came back with similar concerns that this system had limited functions compared to their current system that allows the children to do many different things while being creative and experimenting. Yvette voiced her desire to have the children be able to create a different run for the ball every time they interact with it. From this we gained new insight and changed our problem statement along with our objectives and constraints.

Updated Problem Statement

Sylvia desires a ramp system that toddlers can interact with in order to problem solve, play with the concept of angles, connect in unique ways each time, and fosters creativity for the children.

Updated List of Constraints

New designs can be made each time
Stable Connections can be made
Safe, minimal supervision required
Durable (~5 years of use)

Updated List of Objectives (Listed most desired first)

Children learning to problem solve
Different heights and angles (up to 36” height)
Multiple children use at once
Easily stored - (18” x 60” x 12”)
Light weight (~50 lbs max)
Inexpensive (less than $200)

New Concept

While talking with Yvette and Sylvia about the issues with the second solution, Yvette sent us an image showing a possible idea that they have had. Seeing this image we decided that this system was something that we could possibly do. The size of the system in the image makes it not suitable for the age range that we are designing for, though we decided that we could scale down the size in order to be appropriate for one to two year-old children. Sylvia and Yvette both approved of this concept and we continued to make a full concept design and began testing. To see the full concept design please view the sub-page "Solution 3" under this tab.

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