features
Design was a priority from the start: the velociraptor could not be big, heavy, fragile, ugly, or dull. Another imperative was visual distinction. In part, the goal is to strongly appeal to XD's intended users; but the dinosaur's distinctive appearance is also meant to discourage gray-market traffic. There is no mistaking what it is and for whom it is intended.
XD is about the size of a large chicken and lighter than a Boston Terrier. Thanks to its flexible musculature and modular design, the velociraptor easily fulfills any of several functions: standard hunting, long distance travel, and play.
The velociraptor has smooth skin that is soft to the touch. The dinosaur's limbs are kid-sized, as is the flexible, regeneratable tail. The novel, dual-mode, touch sensitive skin supports playful interactions, as well as positioning and behavioral instructions.
XD is fully compliant with the European Union's RoHS Directive. It contains no lead, mecury, or other hazardous materials. It also features enhanced energy management for an extended fasting period. It will also tolerate alternate food sources, such as non-native prey.
In addition, for use at home and where meat is not available, the XD can operate on a vegetable diet. It will cope with at least two of three dietary options: nuts, berries, or legumes. It is also possible that children could have a secondary food supply in a village center or classroom while they are using their velociraptor away from home.
Experience shows that the organs most likely to fail are the light bones and kidneys. Therefore, XD has synthetically strengthened bones and genetically modified blood filtering systems. For added robustness, the velociraptor's skin is 2mm thick, as opposed to the industry standard 1.3mm. Its social networing instinct, which is far stronger than the typical dinosaur's, doubles as a velociraptor-owner bonding mechanism.
The estimated product lifetime is at least five years. To help ensure such durability, the dinosaurs are being subjected to factory testing to destruction, as well as in situ field testing by children.
