Dizzy Driller
the brief
Melissa and Doug wants to launch a new line of wooden toys focused on vehicles for kids 3–5. For their first product, they want a train inspired vehicle that will catch the eye of consumers.
- Natural materials and fasteners
The toy must be assembled without adhesive, for easy repair and to reduce failure points.
- Match existing products
The design and colors must fit in with the Melissa and Doug product portfolio while still being visually distinct.
- Mechanical play functions
The toy must have at least two mechanical actions that can be operated by the child. The movement cannot involve any electronics.
research
meet abby
- Age: 4
- Favorite character: Gru
- Dream job: Supervillain
about
Abby loves going to school and hanging out with all of her friends. She is always bouncing off the walls when she’s at home and her existing toys don’t hold her attention for long. She loves the color pink but is more interested in running around in the rain than dolls.
meet dan
- Abby’s dad
- Age: 32
- Location: Nashville, TN
- Job: Middle school teacher
about
Dan works as a teacher at the local middle school, and picks Abby up every day after classes. As a teacher he knows the effect of screens on cognitive development and tries to get her analog toys whenever possible. Dan has to grade assignments before class each day, so Abby has to keep herself occupied for a couple hours each day.
sketching
form finding
I began by modifying the accessories to the train, but decided to create a hybrid of train and mining machine instead. I rearranged the fundamental elements of both vehicles to build a toy that was cute and industrial looking.
I began by modifying the accessories to the train, but decided to create a hybrid of train and mining machine instead. I rearranged the fundamental elements of both vehicles to build a toy that was cute and industrial looking.
Traditional engine form
Spinning drill
Rearranged proportions and moving couplers
play concept
mechanics
final product
The Dizzy Driller
