So we started on a first rough prototype, just a simple cardboard prototype. After stabilising the inner ramp (where the gumball would be put in and dispensed from) we tested it using marbles and fortunately it works pretty well for a first attempt. There are still infinite designs we can consider for the gumball machine itself. Another idea we were discussing was to buy a (toy) gumball machine and use it instead of creating one out of cardboard.

• Critics Feedback session:

“I wouldn’t want to take a gumball from a rubbish bin”

Considering the feedback from the group talk, we discussed potential ideas for a reward like miniature toys, like rings or balls or something like that.

“Make the prototypes and let it respond back to you, rather than deciding on what to make“...

We had a group of second year students who suggested on focusing on making prototypes and designs for the concept instead of prioritising the research and refining the idea. They said its better to test out different materials and designs earlier on and since we have quite a lot of research on aspects in our concept (gamification in recycling, structure of the gumball machine etc.), we should now just go for it.

We will take in all constructive criticism and feedback for concept development.

Next week, we plan on making some more prototypes using other materials. We were also checking out a mini vending machine toy that we could use.