Buildable: Modular Interactive Kit for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Buildable is a modular, interactive building system designed to enable intuitive play through simple connections. The system allows users to assemble and reconfigure forms easily, encouraging exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning.

In many existing institutions supporting children with cerebral palsy, toys designed for typically developing children are often used, which can limit engagement due to a lack of accessibility and intuitive interaction. Buildable responds to this gap by offering a system that is easier to handle, understand, and engage with, supporting more inclusive and meaningful play experiences.

Electronics

1. ISD1820 Voice Recording Module
2. 3.7V Li-ion / Li-Po battery (800–2000 mAh)
3. Type-C charging module
4. 2-pin magnetic pogo connectors
5. Hook-up wires (single strand or flexible wire)
6. Small speaker (for ISD1820)

3D Printed Components

1. Access to a 3D printer or a local 3D printing service
2. Central module housing (with cavity for electronics)
3. Interchangeable side modules (various forms)
4. Connector housings for pogo pins

Printing Notes

1. Material: PLA recommended
2. Layer height: 0.2 mm
3. Ensure tolerance for connectors (+0.2–0.3 mm)
4. Print in light/neutral colors for better visibility

Assembly Tools

1. Super glue (for fixing components)
2. Soldering iron and solder
3. Wire cutter/stripper
4. Tweezers (for small parts)

Finish (Optional)

1. Spray paint (for color-coding modules, if printing in a single color)
2. Sandpaper (for smoothing prints)

Final Requirement

1. Patience, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment with building and iteration

Download the attached STL files and 3D print all components. The parts are color-separated for clarity, but colors can be swapped based on preference or material availability. Ensure proper print settings and tolerances for a good fit during assembly.

Recommended settings:

1. Material: PLA (easy to print)
2. Layer height: 0.2 mm
3. Infill: 15–20%
4. Wall thickness: 2–3 walls

Step 1: The Power Core

This stage manages charging and power distribution for the entire system.

1. Identify the B+ / B− (battery) and OUT+ / OUT− (load) pads on the Type-C TP4056 module.
2. Solder the battery: Red wire → B+, Black wire → B−.
3. Solder two output wires to OUT+ and OUT−. These will provide 3.7V–4.2V to the system.

Step 2: Audio & Logic Setup

This stage prepares the ISD1820 to store and play audio.

1. Connect OUT+ → VCC and OUT− → GND on the ISD1820 module.
2. Connect the 8Ω speaker to the SP1 socket or solder it to the speaker pads.
3. Power the module via USB-C and record audio by holding the REC button.
4. Press PLAYE to verify the recording.

Step 3: Create Parallel Trigger Bus

This enables all connectors to trigger the same sound.

1. Run a single VCC wire and daisy-chain it to one pin of all pogo connectors.
2. Run a signal wire from PLAYE and daisy-chain it to the second pin of all pogo connectors.
3. This ensures any connector pair can complete the circuit and trigger playback.

Power the ISD1820 Voice Recording Module and press and hold the REC button while speaking clearly into the onboard microphone. Release the button to save the recording. Press PLAYE to test the audio and ensure it is clear before proceeding.

Record a short, engaging audio clip on the ISD1820 Voice Recording Module that plays when modules connect. Choose a clear, crisp sound (like a click, tone, or short phrase) for better impact, as the audio is triggered when the connectors align magnetically with the central module.

Carefully place the assembled circuit inside the central module cavity, aligning it with the designated mounting areas. Ensure all components are positioned securely and do not obstruct the connectors or lid. Fix the circuit in place using adhesive or a snug fit to prevent movement during use.

Extra cavities are provided for pogo pins beyond those required for the circuit. Insert pogo pins into these additional slots to improve alignment, magnetic feel, and overall connection stability. Ensure all pins are properly aligned and sit flush with the surface.

Secure the internal components by sticking them to the inner walls of the central module to prevent movement and ensure stable connections. Carefully place the lid, making sure wires are neatly arranged and not obstructing the fit. Glue the lid in place to fully enclose and protect the assembly.

Begin connecting different modules to explore how they fit, align, and interact with one another. Experiment with various combinations, build new forms, and take them apart to try again. The system is designed for open-ended play, there is no single outcome, only possibilities to discover through making.