Pixl

A range of LED matrix emoji characters

Pixl started life as a concept called Pixiez. These were little cubes containing an 8x8 LED matrix, and magnetic tx/rx couplings. In addition to this they had a tiny photo diode in the back. This incredibly innovative, cable-free method was used to receive binary flashes from a companion app to upload new content. Using the magnetic couplings, many Pixiez could be connected to share animations, and images. A range of clippable covers were designed to turn your Pixiez cube into a character, watch or anything else!

Vivid imaginations licensed the concept and developed it into Pixl. There were 6 characters in the series. An app & website were developed to allow designs & animations to be uploaded using the innovative light based binary flash. The user can then 'bumpinate' their toys to make them interact or swap animations.

I co-invented this product with Tony Ellis of Conceptoneering.

Initial concept prototypes.

Concept model on the left, and pre-production prototype on the right by Design Works.

Prototype electronics test.

Innovate smart-device upload development.

Prototype showroom demo unit construction. Microprocessor controlled.

Press coverage, retail pack & double set characters.

UK TV Advert.