Goals
Inclusive Fun
My role on this project included theme design and refining safety and ergonomic features. Inclusive to the differently abled, children use their hands instead of feet to propel this toy. The handles can be turned together to zoom forward, or spun opposite ways for a cyclone motion!
Theme Exploration
A variety of concepts were explored like a rounded frame to avoid hard impacts, an amphibious option, and even a design using rip cords for an added boost of speed. Working with stakeholders, key features aligned with the product brief and production budget were chosen.
Selected Theme
The key sketch captures vibrant, classic details that represent the Radio Flyer brand, while providing a buffer, shielding children from hard edges and moving parts. The ergonomic contoured seat and angled footrest provide a comfortable riding experience.
Development for Production
Design and engineering collaborated on goals like material reduction, ergonomics and safety validated by user testing. The wheels, footrest and seat are reduced in size and made from molded plastic, lowering the weight and improving maneuverability.
Features and Details
The frame has no hard angles, reducing the probability of a jarring impact while rotating. The rear caster pivots 360 degrees on bearings to ensure smooth rotation. After testing, the footrest was widened per my suggestion, adding stability while turning or rotating.