A Lamp That Grows With You
For children, a night light can make the difference in getting a good night's sleep. With so many night lights on the market, parents can get any shape or style of night light, but all current solutions lack one component: customization.
Kids’ interests are always changing, and their night light should have the capability to change with them. Night Light Pals is a modular system that allows children and parents to do just that.
September 2024
Duration: 5 Week Ideation Period, In Progress
Location: University of Cincinnati + Personal Project
Research
Evaluating top-performing rechargeable night lights
Design Phase
Inspiration
Minimal and Abstract: a defined base form that, with added features, can become any animal or character.
Exploration
Defining form and features.
Prototypes
Cardboard Models - defining scale and shape, as well as three distinct pieces (light puck, lamp legs, and lamp body)
3D Print (1) - combining light puck into the base of the lamp rather than two separate pieces, establishing form and interchangeable feature
3D Print (2) - simplifying animal features, modifying tolerances for snap-fit pieces
Low Fidelity Model Analysis
Breaking down the design for refinement
CAD Refinement
The final modifications
Updated snap-fit battery holder with designated light bulb slot, battery holder and cable placement
Modified button touchpoint for increased ease of use.
Increased wall thickness and part tolerances to block light from shining through the base, as well as matte plastic finish.
Ground-up creation of two new characters for different interests and user preferences.
The Night Light Pals: a friend that sleeps when you do.
Elephant
Penguin
Bunny
One Size Fits All
The Internals:
Twist-and-Click Battery Cover
Two AA Batteries
Snap-Fit Battery Holder
LED (Threaded Through Battery Holder + Cover)
Push Button and Button Cap
Base Module
Any compatible Night Light Pal can snap onto the base.
