With this toy the children will be learning about varies forces that go into the process of motion. They will be able to observe various parabolic arcs produced by different launch angles from the shooter. They will also be able to observe the behavior of different projectiles, such as jello or marshmallows, and how their different properties, such as weight, density, and ability to stay in one piece, affect how they travel through the air. On top of this, the children will also be able to experiment with springs of different length and stiffness. The different springs will demonstrate the relationship between displacement and force produced by a spring. They will also be able to attach different nozzles, introducing the relationship of force produced by air rushing through holes of various sizes.
The children will interact with this toy by first choosing a spring and nozzle for the various options to attach to the base of the shooter, creating the completed toy. They will then be able to cock it back by pulling on the handle, and insert a projectile (probably a marshmallow) to shoot. Based on the results, they can choose different parts for the shooter, or stick with the ones they have and play happily with their toy, observing the effect of their nozzle/spring combination and how it resulted in a successful launch of the marshmallow.
This will be very effective in engaging a child's curiosity, because children love projectiles. The child will be very determined to launch the marshmallow as far as physically possible, resulting in eager efforts to attempt launches with every combination of parts. This will be applicable to children of all ages, and the parts should be easily interchangeable, allowing for a wide range of skill level. The toy will be safe because only soft projectiles will be used, and it will be built well enough to avoid malfunctions, such as broken parts. The technology is appropriate because is it modeled similar to Nerf guns, which is a commonly sold toy, and the technology is sustainable because its made from materials that can be recycled, including various metals and plastics. This toy would be fun for children who just want to play, and for children who want to evaluate different combinations of parts, and it is usable by any child with basic hand motor skills and the strength to pull back the handle. This results in a universal toy design. All parts were manufactured by this team aside from the springs and the pivot shafts for the trigger mechanism.
