"odo" design goals
For the Next Generation is a catchphrase describing Sony CSR activities aimed at establishing a sustainable society. This thinking forms the basis of the "odo" design concept group, whose devices are powered by kinetic energy. The devices tap into children's creativity, curiosity, and energy. In return, they offer new experiences, a sense of social consciousness and ecological values, and inspiration in forward-looking ways, which enhances their value even more. They are an invitation to enjoy a new level of interaction with devices, having fun moving parts, turning cranks, and using your body to generate energy as you play with them.
The "odo" project was launched in 2006. How can Sony set a good example through socially responsible product models? These prototypes represent one answer to this question posed by the Los Angeles Design Center. As demonstrations of sustainable design, they apply principles of both universal design and eco-design.
The shape of eco-design teaches children-and all of us-valuable lessons
Toys that look built from building blocks are familiar and accessible even to young children. Making the series hand-powered introduces kids to concepts of environmental issues and energy sources while inspiring creativity. Parts for generating power are brightly colored, applying universal design for intuitive operation.
The product body itself would be made of recycled or vegetable-based plastic as a commitment to the environment. With parts connected by sturdy natural rubber bands, the series uses a minimum of screws, greatly simplifying assembly and disassembly.
- Crank N' Capture / video camera
- Powered by turning the crank on the side for shooting and playback. Unlike a regular video camera, images are not smooth but intentionally choppy, as if animated by flipping pages. Here, the designers invite users to enjoy this charming effect.
- Spin N' Snap / digital camera
- Powered by sticking one's fingers through the two holes and spinning the camera end over end. Because there is no LCD screen, the holes also serve as a viewfinder.
- Push Power Play / photo and video viewer
- Powered by pushing the viewer on its bottom-mounted roller.
- Pull N' Play / stereo headphones
- Powered by pulling the cord in the housing. The headphones have a built-in FM radio. Even the ear pads are made of recycled material, not to mention the body itself. Can be folded up to carry or store.
- Juice Box / solar battery
- To collect sunlight, stick it to a window using the attached suction cups. After charging, fold it up as a portable battery for other "odo" prototypes.
