SmartPark: A Technological Playground for the Future

System Proposal for Outdoor Playgrounds

A new approach to play patterns of children by experiencing playgrounds through technology makes Smartpark distinguished. The main point of this project is technology related lack of social interactions and physical exercises which are essential for the development of children. The project idea is based on using technology as a medium that affords to socialize both in real and virtual environments by securing children. The system is consisted of the wristband and 4 different ensampled toys.

The wristband records activities and keeps track of children. By this way, the system gives points, which are collected to participate in events, as reinforcement to encourage children to play outdoors. It also provides a position tracking system to prevent kidnapping cases, which is the main concern of parents who prefer to accompany children to parks.

The playground toys are ensampled as 4 different toys and 2 different pointing systems. King of the Hill (#2) has a task-based score system, and the task is to get to the top. It has a climbing bed made from fabric which has elasticity, making it harder to climb. Jumper (#4) also has a task-based score system, and the task is jumping where the light turns on. After completing the circle, the player racks up points. Umbrella (#3) and Groundshake (#3) have a time-based score system. The child gains points according to the time he/she continues the activity. The score system increases the points if two or more children participate in the games connected to the difficulty of games and social manners.

Smartpark consists of hardware and software. The hardware involves a wristband with an RF unit and toys that have RF readers as well. The software is an application that provides an interface for tracking the child and controlling points gathered. The system connects parents through the app. Parents can track activity records with the app, and children can spend gathered points using the wristband. The main technology applied to this project is RF tracking technology, and smartphones are also part of the interaction. The wristband is made of silicon and RF unit, while the materials of the playground differ in each toy.

Smartpark, as a multi-tasking system, is divided into two subsystems, each with specific users. Firstly, the interaction occurs between children, the playground, and the wristband. Every time a task is achieved on the playground, the player racks up points using the wristband. The latter is about security. By the tracking system, parents are able to observe their children through the interface.

The project started in the summer of 2014 and is still in progress. The design is based on interviews, observations, and surveys about the play patterns of children. The survey revealed that the time children spend at playgrounds is less than 3 hours weekly, with 43% of parents preferring indoor playgrounds with guardians. 90% of parents accompany their children themselves, indicating a real security problem related to kidnapping. Smartpark aims to break this self-sufficient system by using technology as a solution to encourage outdoor play and prevent security problems.

The main challenge for Smartpark is funding. Conventional playgrounds are not appropriate for this system, and these public spaces should be built in a new way, which is dependent on capital and local governments.

Smartpark is a technology-based playground that offers a new play pattern. The system encourages children to attend outdoor activities and socialize in real life while keeping track of their activities and locations to make parents feel secure. Kids earn points for their activities, which can be used as rewards. The reward system includes a wide range of reinforcements, from toys from different stores that sign sponsorship with Smartpark to tickets for educational events or open-air child festivals where children can enjoy while learning.

This design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2015. The award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Smartpark is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, contributing to a better world.