Rezaei and Esmaeili, both young engineers and self-proclaimed toy lovers, were inspired by the magic of modular structures. The possibility of constructing intricate systems using simple units led them to design Mini Mech, a toy that encourages creativity and learning. The design is a collection of transparent blocks, each containing a unique mechanical unit. When assembled, these blocks can form a variety of machines, offering endless possibilities for young, creative minds.
Mini Mech is not just a toy, but a tool for education. The transparent blocks allow children to see the mechanisms of each unit both individually and collectively in the system. This hands-on approach to learning engineering principles is both engaging and effective, making Mini Mech a standout in the world of educational toys.
The design of Mini Mech is both innovative and practical. The blocks are mainly made of acrylic glass, cut by laser technology and assembled by hand. This method is suitable for small scale production. However, with mass production in mind, Mini Mech is designed with a minimum diversity of pieces, making it suitable for the injection molding process.
Despite the challenges faced during the design process, including fitting each functioning mechanism into a 4.5 cm x 4.5 cm x 4.5 cm block and creating functional and easy-to-use connections between the blocks, Rezaei and Esmaeili were successful in their endeavor. Their hard work and creativity were recognized when Mini Mech was awarded the Golden A' Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design Award in 2017.
Mini Mech is more than just a toy; it's a testament to the power of design and innovation. It's a tool that inspires creativity, encourages learning, and empowers the next generation of engineers. With its unique design and educational benefits, Mini Mech is setting a new standard for educational toys.
Project Designers: Negar Rezaei & Ghazal Esmaeili
Image Credits: Negar Rezaei & Ghazal Esmaeili
Project Team Members: Ghazal Esmaeili
Negar Rezaei
Project Name: Mini Mech
Project Client: Negar Rezaei & Ghazal Esmaeili