Linglin Liang · CLIENT: Zhejiang Sci-Tech University Desis Lab
Tenki is a magnetic construction toy designed to teach children basic circuit knowledge. The set includes power generation modules, power consumption modules and structural connectors. Each module contains wires that are joined through magnetic connectors, so no wiring is exposed. Children assemble the modules freely and explore different ways of converting energy. In one combination, turning the handle of a hand-cranked generator supplies power to a buzzer and produces sound. The basic two-way connector measures 30 by 15 by 15 millimeters.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Tenki is a splice type digital toys for children. This design provides basic power knowledge for children through different power generation modules and combination of power modules. Magnetic suction module is built into the toy structure to bury the wire into the connector. This form avoids the hidden danger of wire exposure caused by traditional electronic toys. Tenki aims to effectively connect children with digital life in a more accessible and low-threshold form.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The basic size of the two-way connector is 30 mm x 15 mm x 15 mm. The base size of the six-way connector is 60 mm x 60 mm x 60 mm.
- Tags
- Splicing toy, Magnetic attraction splicing, Circuit knowledge, STEAM education
- Production Technology
- This design includes power generation module, power consumption module, structural module and magnetic attraction. There are wires in each module, which are connected by magnetic attraction. The power generation module is connected with the structural and the power consumption module by magnetic attraction, and the electric energy generated by the power generation module is transmitted to the power consumption module by internally arranging wires.
- Design Challenge
- Due to the space limitation inside the connector, high-precision assembly is required when wires are built in, so that multiple wires are connected in parallel to each port.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2022 in China and finished in December 2022 in China.
- Operation Flow
- First of all: children can choose connectors at will and conceive building blocks. Secondly, select and assemble the appropriate power generation module and power consumption module. Finally, children can explore various combinations of energy conversion. For example, children can form a simple hand buzzer. By shaking the handle of the hand-cranked generator, the buzzer can be energized to make a sound.
- Research
- Type of Research: the combination of STEAM education and digital toys. Research Objectives: This design opens up a new way of space splicing in the form of low threshold, and makes fun STEAM toys that children really need. Methodology: circuit knowledge analysis, children's psychological analysis,
Material analysis, toy type size analysis. Data Collection: 6-9 years old children's user survey, market analysis, teaching material analysis. Tools Used: Rhinoceros 3D, Adobe Illustrator, KeyShot. - Inspiration
- With the gradual popularization of digital life, children at low age have a need for digital toys. However, most of the traditional digital toys for children are suitable for high age. Because of the high threshold, children of low age usually cannot have more suitable digital toys. We developed Tenki, aiming at using simple conductive structure as a carrier to spread interesting circuit knowledge. In the form of low threshold, children are exposed to the digital life.
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