Intro
We were instructed to select a simple childrens's toy, analyze it visually and functionally, and then disassemble it and analyze its structure.
Visual Analysis
Name: Rubik's Cube
Company: orientaltrading Target Consumer: all ages above 3 Visual design elements: Color- the colors are bright, and very saturated, appealing to all ages, but especially children. Shape-the shape is geometric, a cube, making it very simple. Texture- it has a smooth texture Visual Design Principles: Economy- the cube is very simple, and uncomplicated Rhythm- it has regular rhythm, and even spacing between all cubes Balance- it is symmetrical (if you don't count the colors) |
Functional Analysis
Purpose:to provide entertainment with a puzzle
Function:the cube is split into sections of 9, which can move horizontally or vertically. The goal of the puzzle is to match all the sides with one color.
Inputs --------------------> Function ---------------------> Outputs
Motion the cube moves sound
Function:the cube is split into sections of 9, which can move horizontally or vertically. The goal of the puzzle is to match all the sides with one color.
Inputs --------------------> Function ---------------------> Outputs
Motion the cube moves sound
This is an annotated sketch of the cube.
Structural Analysis
Simple Machines Used: Screw, Wedge
The cube worked by using an inner core, that had 6 protrusions, with one cube of each color attached to each protrusion. The cubes on the protrusions can spin, and that allowed the cubes on the outside to turn with them, because the rest of the cubes are attached to the ones on the protrusions, directly or indirectly. The middle cubes are attached to the protrusions, either by wedges they are forced over that hold the in place, or by screws that act the same as the wedges.
The cube worked by using an inner core, that had 6 protrusions, with one cube of each color attached to each protrusion. The cubes on the protrusions can spin, and that allowed the cubes on the outside to turn with them, because the rest of the cubes are attached to the ones on the protrusions, directly or indirectly. The middle cubes are attached to the protrusions, either by wedges they are forced over that hold the in place, or by screws that act the same as the wedges.
Suggested Improvements
1) The Rubik's Cube should have a rough surface, for easier handling.
2) The stickers should be made of a more durable material, so they do not rub off.
3) The screws should be replaced with wedges, they seem to have no purpose.
4) The cube should be able to turn easier, it sometimes will not move if all the sides aren't aligned.
2) The stickers should be made of a more durable material, so they do not rub off.
3) The screws should be replaced with wedges, they seem to have no purpose.
4) The cube should be able to turn easier, it sometimes will not move if all the sides aren't aligned.