Play & Learn: An interactive toy
Play & Learn: An interactive toy from Duncan Rutishauser
Play & Learn: An interactive toy

The ‘game pad’ is a tactile interactive toy that aims to promote education and development through the act of play. User centred interface and wireless connectivity creates a physically active and socially inclusive learning environment.

The project is based upon ‘Learning by interactive play’. This is the development of design intervention for better education while integrating enjoyment and recreation. Advances in technology have created opportunities in the market for the development of interfaces that integrate core-learning components with human computer interaction. Commonly we are seeing toys that simply foster distraction without incorporating these components, of experienced based learning:
• social interaction
• physical participation
• parent involvement

Assembly and components of the final product.
Size and shape of the product was determined by the need of the 4-6 years old age group. Dimension reflect the need for a physical and tactile interaction during play.
Multiple Divice play, allows for a grater physical interaction as well as social leaning.
With the addition of Bluetooth modules to the Arduino hardware, multiple devices are able to communicate wirelessly, expanding the possibilities for more complex and physical games.
The proposed use of a child's play pen facilitates a open play environment for several children.
Prototype's were developed with 3D printing, Arduino components and code. Many different games can be simulated with LED's, Buttons and buzzer for sound.
Digital Rendering was used to visually represent what a final manufactured product would look like. Research showed a trend towards Scandinavian styling with raw or bleached woods, giving a modern look and ideal texture, while also being sustainable .
Personal project business card for exhibition.
Exhibition Stand.
Technical Package - Assembly
Technical Package - Exploded View
Technical Package - Sectional View Assembly
Technical Package - Front plate details
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Play & Learn: An interactive toy

The ‘game pad’ is a tactile interactive toy that aims to promote education and development through the act of play. User centred interface and wireless connectivity creates a physically active and socially inclusive learning environment.

The project is based upon ‘Learning by interactive play’. This is the development of design intervention for better education while integrating enjoyment and recreation. Advances in technology have created opportunities in the market for the development of interfaces that integrate core-learning components with human computer interaction. Commonly we are seeing toys that simply foster distraction without incorporating these components, of experienced based learning:
• social interaction
• physical participation
• parent involvement

Duncan Rutishauser
Service Design / Customer Experience Sydney, Australia