Prototype, Mechatronics, Constructionism
Designed by Carolina Sotério and Julio Intriago Izquierdo, the MonsterBox combines fantasy, storytelling, and technology through interactive paper monsters that kids can use to create their own adventures. The monster's face changes automatically using a motorized mechanism powered by the GogoBoard and Geneva gears, allowing the character's personality to evolve as the story progresses. Children can swap out the monster’s expressions and emotions, with the box lighting up, moving, and playing sounds to enhance the narrative.
A DC motor connected to the GogoBoard controls a strip of images that show different faces through the monster's mouth. When kids press a button, the motor rotates the strip, revealing a new face. Inspired by toys like view-masters, stop-motion projectors (praxinoscope), and flip books, this design makes storytelling more interactive.
Additional features include:
- LEDs: Lights inside the box change based on the monster's face, adding depth to the story. For instance, pressing a button might trigger a cool green or yellow light.
- Sound Effects: The monster comes with its own sound, giving the characters a unique personality with every change.
- Machine Learning: The box can detect when someone waves at it, triggering fairy lights on the outside to light up, making the experience even more magical.
