Crossbeams is a toy, developed by electrical engineer Charles Sharman's company Seven:Twelve Engineering, that can itself be used to design and put together a wide variety of toys including complicated toy cars and helicopters.
The Crossbeams are essentially small tube-shaped bits of plastic, some of which are curved or bent at one end while others are straight. These pieces join together in two steps -- first with a regular male/female connection in which one piece slots into the other, and then with a twistable ring that secures the joints against stress.
In addition to being a toy creator, Crossbeams can also be used to create usable household objects such as trash cans, bookshelves and more, and is sure to encourage creativity in design.
Toy-Building Toys
The Crossbeams Toy Can Be Used to Design and Build Original Toys
Trend Themes
1. Modular Toy Design - The trend of modular toy design allows for endless possibilities in creating unique and customizable toys.
2. 3D Printed Toys - The rise of 3D printing technology in the toy industry opens up opportunities for personalized and on-demand toy manufacturing.
3. STEM Toy Innovation - The trend of creating STEM-focused toys, like Crossbeams, promotes learning through play and fosters innovation in engineering and design skills.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - The toy manufacturing industry can capitalize on the trend of modular toy design by developing new product lines that offer creative building options for children of all ages.
2. 3D Printing - The 3D printing industry can explore partnerships with toy companies to provide customized and printable toy designs, revolutionizing traditional toy manufacturing processes.
3. Education - The education industry can integrate STEM-focused toys, such as Crossbeams, into learning environments to enhance hands-on learning experiences and encourage innovation.