Prototype
This phase highlights the main aspects of final prototype, the production process behind the components of the prototype and the resulting prototype made.
Prototype Kit Focus
Due to the time constraints present for the prototype, it was clear that both kits from the concept could not be produced in the given time. Hence, it was decided that, since the baby would be in the 6-9 month category and the product could be evaluated and used by the baby, the prototype of the product would be built solely for the 6-9 month old kit described in the previous phase
Prototype Elements
Stackable Cart
The body and stackable squares and circles of this component were made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The wheels were laser cut, and the axle for the wheels was purchased at a local hardware store
Eggs Cart
The body of this component was also made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The wheels were laser cut, and the axle for the wheels was purchased at a local hardware store. Finally, the eggs were made by 3D printing the shapes according to specific files that reflect the desired design.
Wooden Guiro
The body of this component was made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The wheels were laser cut, and the axle for the wheels and the thick guiro stick were purchased at a local hardware store. The ridges were made by sanding the wood.
Conductor
The body of this component was made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The wheels were laser cut, and the axle for the wheels was purchased at a local hardware store. On the wheels were pincer grasp puzzles consisting of different shapes that were attached by magnetic strips to the wheels to allow the baby to develop a pincer grasp.
Tissue Box
The body of this component was made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The actual tissues consisted of various fabrics and textures obtained, and several fabrics were created with crochet yarn.
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Object Permanence Box
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The body of this component was made from laser-cutting wood according to SOLIDWORKS Files, and subsequently painted. The balls, which were of varying weight, were obtained from a shop according to the dimensions of the holes and subsequently painted.
Tummy Time Mirror
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The actual mirror was made of acrylic plastic and purchased online to guarantee the safety of the toy's usage. The pom-poms were created using the aforementioned yarn and stuck on the mirror with glue, and the stand was made from a soft plush texture that allowed the mirror to be folded into an upright position.
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Final Prototype
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Subscription Model
To ensure that the product would be able to become a viable business if pursued further potentially, it was decided to come up with a business model that would be profitable for the potential business, and equitable for the customer.
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To do so, it was decided to choose a business model based on analyses of existing competitors' business models, as well as interviews with the participants.
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The final proposed business model would be a subscription model service that the customer could subscribe to on a yearly or 2-year basis, with a discount in subscription price every year as it meant a longer commitment to the business.
Next, the customer would pay a recurring fee every 3 months to get access to the kits up until the termination of the 1/2-year contract, in which she will receive a new kit every 3 months. Furthermore, the customer can decide to keep the toys free of charge, but, if they decide to return the toys in an acceptable state(i.e. a state in which they can easily be refurbished and re-used), then they will receive a discount in subsequent recurring fee, promoting sustainability and reducing production.
Below is a visual demonstration of this process
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