Purpose:

The purpose of this toy is to provide basic fundamental knowledge of air dynamics in a way children can easily comprehend. Time spent playing with this simple toy should help them understand that wind is a primary component of flight. An airplane in flight is an object children can recognize, which aids them in realizing what the toy is supposed to do (fly).

How to play:

The current design has a gear system which connect crank and a fan to provide steady windflow at a reasonable speed (or as fast as the child wishes). The miniature plane is initially at rest on a landing platform, connected at the wings by strings. The wings should catch the incoming wind and create a lift force, which should induce flight.

Production and Safety:

The primary material for this toy should be wood. Using wood gives a vintage feel, and provides a sturdy base. The plane should be made with lighter material, like plastic. The miniature planes should be easily interchangeable to suit the model that the child wants. Production price could be at least $10. An alternate design replaces the hand crank with a motor crank. After storing energy into the motor by turning the crank, the fly should fly on its own for a few seconds. While parts should not contain any sharp edges, they can fall off (e.g. plane is attached by strings). Some parts may be too small for play for anyone 3 years or under (recommended for 3 years and up).

Important note:

One should note that the toy does not accurately represent the way an airplane really flies. This toy simply uses wind as a force, and the placement of the strings force the plane up to maintain equilibrium. Air flow through an actual plane uses more complicated physics.