The TOSSIT Dart: A Journey of Engineering and Continuous Innovation
Hello, I'm Gaetan, the engineer and passionate physics and chemistry enthusiast behind the TOSSIT Dart. Today, I want to take you on a journey through the intricate process of designing our dart, explaining the scientific principles that guided us, and sharing the challenges and triumphs we experienced along the way.
The Intersection of Theory and Reality
Designing the TOSSIT Dart was a thrilling experience that brought me back to my academic roots. As an engineer, I have always been fascinated by the physical principles that govern our world. Understanding why materials behave the way they do, down to the atomic level, is particularly captivating for me. This project allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world product, bridging the gap between studies and practical application.
Weight and Distribution: The Physics Behind a Perfect Dart
One of the first challenges we tackled was optimizing the weight and distribution of the dart. Based on studies and principles of ballistics, we knew that front-weighting the dart would provide stability during flight. This minimizes unwanted rotations and ensures that the suction cup lands first, enhancing its sticking ability.
We experimented with various weight distributions, guided by the principles of aerodynamics and the need for consistency in mass and shape. Our goal was to create a dart that not only flies straight but also sticks reliably to various surfaces.
Shape and Length: Balancing Aerodynamics and Aesthetics
The shape and length of the dart were critical factors in its performance. We aimed for a sleek, aerodynamic design that reduces drag. Initially, we experimented with simple cylindrical shapes, but soon we realized that adding small wings (ailettes) to the body improved flight stability by minimizing rotation.
Empirical testing played a crucial role here. With limited resources to simulate aerodynamic behavior precisely, we resorted to hands-on experimentation. We 3D printed over a dozen prototypes, customized them in the garage, and tested them in the garden. Each iteration brought us closer to the ideal design.
Suction Cup: The Key to Sticking
The suction cup's material and design were vital for ensuring the dart sticks well. We chose a high-quality, eco-friendly silicone with a durometer of less than 40, ensuring it is soft enough to create a strong vacuum seal on various surfaces.
Testing different sizes and shapes, we settled on a 40 mm concave suction cup. This size strikes a balance between adhesion and ease of compression, making it perfect for our needs.
Materials and Environmental Impact
As someone deeply concerned about environmental sustainability, I wanted our darts to be as eco-friendly as possible. We opted for recyclable silicone, enhancing our product’s environmental footprint. This choice not only benefits the planet but also resonates with our eco-conscious customers.
From Prototypes to Mass Production
Continuous Improvement: Never Settling for Less
Quality and performance are not fixed states; they are part of a continuous improvement process. At TOSSIT, we invest heavily in research and development, constantly seeking ways to enhance the player's experience. We run extensive testing sessions with new users, simulate performance on powerful machines, and gather empirical data to inform our design decisions.
Future Challenges: Towards a Sustainable Future
Our biggest future challenge is to succeed in recycling the silicone used in our darts. We aim to either recycle the silicone within our darts or transform it into other products. This goal is part of our broader commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Conclusion: A Dart for the Future
