Demonstrate a scientific principle to a user between age 9 and 11 in the form of a physically interactive toy.


The scientific principle chosen was vacuums and the challenge set personally was to have the learning take place sub-consciously, rather than as the main focus of the toy.

Using the force of a vacuum as a control system for moving objects formed the basis of this upright maze. Speaking to children of relevant ages informed the design to be both multi-player and variably difficult depending on the skill level.


Following a successful presentation the Vacuum Vault was invited to exhibit at the local science centre for user testing on a wider scale.

Design Skills:


  1. •Anthropometric Research

  2. •Material Resourcing

  3. •Product Breakdown


Build Skills:


  1. •Plastic Forming

  2. •Jig Fabrication

  3. •Mill / Press

  4. •Finishing Processes

  5. •Conforming to Health & Safety Regulations

An experiment to explore the fun side of vacuum cleaners, this 3D maze was set up in Sensation Science Centre Dundee and left to the public to decide how to best interact with it.