HAPPY MEAL OF THE FUTURE

YEAR2023

KINDGROUP PROJECT (YUDESIGN UPV)

CATEGORYPRODUCT

FUNCTIONDESIGN PROTOTYPING, RENDERING AND FABRICATION

In 2023, the Design Factory Global Network (DFGN) issued a challenge to several international universities to innovate and create the future of Happy Meal toys. The objective was to design toys that are not only fun but also sustainable, aligning with modern environmental standards. The toys needed to adhere to sustainable design principles and serve as a "platform" adaptable to various licenses, given that Happy Meal toys are primarily based on intellectual property.

TRAPEQUE

The winning proposal came from us, YU Design UPV. Our project "Trapeque" secured first place in the global challenge held in June. Trapeque features a collection of six foldable characters, each containing a unique map that can be played with in different settings, whether at a restaurant, at home, or in transit. These toys are versatile, allowing individual play or group activities where players can combine different boards to form larger maps. Each character's map depicts the birthplace of iconic artists, providing educational trivia and engaging stories.

PROTOTYPES, PROTOTYPES, PROTOTYPES

Trapeque is designed with sustainability and simplicity at its core. The toys are crafted with minimal parts and made from renewable, recyclable materials. The main body of each toy is constructed from handmade cardboard produced from recycled cellulose fibers, ensuring the material is both durable and biodegradable. Stickers included with the toys are made from transparent, biodegradable cellulose, allowing children to decorate both the inside and outside of the toys.

Cardboard prototyping played a significant role in Trapeque's development. This method allowed us to quickly iterate and refine the concepts, ensuring the toys were both engaging and practical. Laser cutting was used to achieve precise and intricate designs, enabling the creation of more detailed and foldable characters. This technique ensured each toy could be easily assembled and disassembled by children, enhancing their creativity and motor skills.

PLAY EVERYWHERE

Trapeque represents a solution to the educational, social, and environmental needs of today’s society. It enables children to learn and play in an eco-friendly manner, offering endless possibilities for fun in various situations. Through Trapeque, children can enjoy a dynamic and enriching play experience while being mindful of their environmental impact.

Designed to be played with anywhere—at home, in the car, or at a McDonald's restaurant—Trapeque's foldable characters and maps are compact and portable. This ensures children can engage with the toys on the go, keeping them entertained in various environments. The toys encourage social interaction and collaborative play, as kids can combine different maps and characters to create new adventures.

Trapeque’s sustainable design uses biodegradable materials, teaching children the importance of eco-friendly practices. Overall, Trapeque offers an engaging, versatile play experience that aligns with contemporary values of environmental stewardship.

TRAPEQUE

PROTOTYPES, PROTOTYPES, PROTOTYPES

PLAY EVERYWHERE

GRESAL