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A palm-sized modular toy created by Kelly Harrigan, a fourth-year industrial design student in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech, has been awarded a design patent.
The toy, named Ferra, won first place last year from Swiss Toymaker Naef Speilzeug.
Naef asked for game or design objects appropriate for ages 3 to 99, made primarily of wood.
There were 107 entries in the company's inaugural toy competition.
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Harrigan layered the wooden shapes of her toy with magnets "because people are fascinated by them at any age," she said.
"I wanted to design a toy that makes you want to experiment and learn about the capabilities of magnetism."
The name, Ferra, came from the type of magnet she used -- a ceramic magnet called ferrite.
"The curvy modular design allows for smooth movement between pieces and the opportunity to create several configurations," added Harrigan. "And it feels good in your palm."
Via Dexigner
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alex, on January 4: 
This is such a creative idea for a new toy. Great for any age!