Mariah Mullins


Lumi | Toy Design 



Lumi is a portable story time projector that transforms bedtime routines into an exciting adventure for your little ones.




01: Discovery / Research  


Bedtime Fears & Sleep Anxiety

Many children experience fears at bedtime, such as being afraid of the dark or feeling anxious when left alone. These worries are especially common in younger children, who often struggle to separate what is real from what is imaginary.


Some reasons children struggle with bedtime:
 



What Happens When Children Don't Get Enough Sleep?

Emotional & Behavioral Issues
Increased crankiness, irritability, and frequent meltdowns
More anxiety or mood swings

Impact on Families
Parental stress and exhaustion
Strain on routines and family harmony

Physical Health Problems Weakened immune system
Lower energy and reduced growth

Recommended Sleep (KidsHealth.org):
Preschoolers (ages 3–5): 10–13 hours per day (including naps).
School-age children (ages 6–13): 9–12 hours per night.



Case Studies 


Child | Case Study 
Katie, 7 years old
  • Afraid of being in the dark.
  • Has difficulty falling asleep.

Has trouble settling down for the night. 
Afraid of being alone in the dark. Loves when her mom reads books with her. 

Adult | Case Study 
Annie, 30 years old
  • Loves introducing her kids to creative and fun ideas.
  • Needs a simple way for her kids to feel comfortable to fall asleep.


Loves making simple routines fun for her kids. 
Enjoys being creative with her kids. Wants to spend time with her kids.



So, What Helps Kids Sleep Better?

A familiar bedtime routine in a calming and relaxing environment allows children to fall asleep a lot faster.
     

  • lighting close to the red on the light spectrum increases melatonin production.
  • Music with slow tempos, calming melodies, and soothing rhythms can induce relaxation and reduce stress.
  • Bedtime stories help kids sleep better by creating a calming routine, reducing anxiety, and making them feel safe and relaxed.



Solution 


Project Goals:

Design a toy that stimulates melatonin production, has music features, and can read and project bedtime stories.


Simplify the night-time routine for both children and parents.

Create a relaxing resting environment. 

Make bedtime fun and something that children look forward to!



02: Ideation
Inspiration
  • Minimalistic
  • Playful
  • Simple
  • Fits into any room



Concept 1: inspired by a Japanese garden light. Bringing enchanting fairytales to your bedroom.

Concept 2: Interactive storytelling lamp that is inspired by the space age aesthetic.


Concept 3: Going back to the Japanese garden light shape but making it more child-like and approachable.



03: Final Design




Beachwood Charging Dock


Lumi charges on a dock crafted from natural beechwood. To take Lumi on the go, simply lift it by the handle and remove it from the dock.

  • Durable enough for children's use
  •  Beautifully textured finish  
  • Stylish design that fits any environment



Story Book Cartridges

Collect your favorite stories to project on the wall. Watch and listen as you dose off into a peaceful sleep.  

 

Having Fun with Lumi - Storyboard 


 
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