Catapult

Principle: The catapult is based upon the concept that energy can be stored and then released. It also will teach kids about projectile motion.

Interaction: The child will be able to use different projectiles of different weights (not to heavy to hurt someone) and they will be able to change the launch angle and power. From this, they could see what optimizes the results they want (most likely distance) and learn about projectiles at the same time. Sensors would be able to tell the launch angle and power and use equations of motion to give information about the launch such as maximum height, distance, and time until projectile hits the ground. these equations would be displayed along with the launch info on a small lcd screen.

Durability: There would be a lot of links and pieces which could wear out or break if the toy is mishandled. Pieces used to store the energy could become worn over time and not store energy efficiently. If made of plastic, it would be more easily broken than if made of metal. however, it is not cost

Safety:  With projectiles, there is always some risk, but if used as directed (with provided projectiles) the risk could be minimized. Consumers would be directed not to point at people or animals. The projectiles would also pose a choking hazard.

Manufacturing:  This toy would have various parts that would have to be assembled in order to make the final product. There would not be a cost effective way to manufacture a single frame and then put on the moving parts, however, the toy could be cut into sections.

Cost: Given the difficulty to manufacture, if made of plastic, this toy would probably sell for around $40

Age Recommendation: Due to durability and safety concerns, the recommended age would have to be 8 and up

  The cost for this would be medium as there are a bunch of parts that would have to be manufactured. depending on how the parts would be manufactured, the toy would have a medium durability. Springs could wear out and latches could break. As for safety,  There would also be a choking hazard for the small parts and so the recommended age would have to be 7 and up.