Boat: An Innovative Interactive Toy

Functional Sculpture Redefining Interaction

Boat, designed by Guangpeng Yue, is an innovative interactive toy that provides users with novel and interesting interactive experiences. It breaks the monotonous interaction mode between products and users by increasing the impact of environmental changes on the product, greatly enriching the interest of Boat as a toy and consumers' desire to explore products.

What sets Boat apart is its ability to provide interactive feedback on the perception of things around it. With highly sensitive vibration sensors and a concave directional track on the main shaft surface, Boat starts when it senses vibrations. The main drive shaft rotates, and the structure in the groove of the rotation shaft moves due to gravity, pushing the whole toy forward.

The design of Boat was inspired by observing the movement of arthropods. By simulating the spine of arthropods as the main axis of the model and extracting their movement laws, the mechanism model was designed using computer-aided tools and solid works simulation. This research helped determine the movement regulation of the mechanism, giving Boat a unique and lifelike movement mode.

Boat's design is realized using 3D printing technology, which allows for the direct formation of complex structures. Apart from sensors and motors, all modeling, transmission mechanisms, and hardware structures are finished through 3D printing. This approach perfectly fits the form of modeling and rhythm of the transmission mechanism, resulting in a seamless and visually appealing design.

The project started in July 2021 at Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts and was completed and produced in October 2021. Throughout the design process, the team faced challenges in adjusting the crankshaft shape and fitness of the product to ensure smooth operation. These adjustments were crucial in achieving the desired functionality and user experience.

Boat's unique combination of form and function has garnered recognition in the design community. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that authenticate experience and resourcefulness. Boat's incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology showcases strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.

Boat is not just a toy; it represents a new era of interactive design. With its innovative approach to interaction and its visually captivating design, Boat offers users a truly unique and engaging experience.