Flowtoys Modular System User manual
QUICK START GUIDE: THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU FLOW
1. Do not use glowsticks or WD-40 with tubing. While polycarbonate is very strong, it breaks down
in the presence of certain esters, including those produced by chemical glowsticks, mineral spirits and
WD-40. Do NOT put chemical glowsticks into the tubes, otherwise they can become brittle and
shatter. We recommend lubricating the ends of your tubes with a touch of petroleum jelly.
2. Be careful when using your owtoys in the presence of sand or grit!
Sand and grit can get inside your caps and connectors and make them dicult to use. If you’re using
owtoys in a sandy area, blow out/clean your caps and connectors of sand before attaching them to
the tubing. If your caps and tubes feel gritty, clean them and apply a bit of vaseline for lubrication.
3. Make sure all caps and connectors are fully secured before use! Check that the buttons in your
caps and connectors are fully clicked into the holes of the tubes.
4. Cleaning your owtoys. If your owcaps, connectors, crystal cases or owmass get dirty after
hours of practice in the park, owing in the forest or rockin’ it on a danceoor, clean them with soap
and warm water, or put them in the wash with your laundry: air-dry, no heat!
LIFETIME WARRANTY
Flowtoys are designed to last you a lifetime, but nothing is indestructible,
so we provide this warranty to enable you to freely nd your ow*.
If you manage to break a owtoys product, we have a policy of free
replacement on damaged non-electronic parts and defective electronics,
and 50% o replacement on broken electronics. If the tips in this guide do
not keep your owtoys working for years to come, please contact us!
* Flowtoys reserves the right to refuse coverage to anyone abusing this warranty.
Please contact us before sending in your product, or it may be returned to sender.
Modular System Guide
features
operating instructions
troubleshooting
inspiration
Combining versatile owtoys LED light units – the owlight and the capsule light – and a
series of click-in caps, connectors and tubes that are interchangeable, the modular system
enables the creation of almost any illuminated prop imaginable.
Gone are the days of wondering how to check in our 5’stas for travel, or deciding which
owtoys to bring to an event. Now with just a few lights, tubes, caps and leashes, you can
have 4’double stas that quickly transform into a contact sta, a couple of 3’stas, clubpoi,
swinging clubs, chucks and more, and everything ts in a backpack!
The world just became a little more awesome for us, because of the versatility, creativity
and fun the Flowtoys Modular System enables. We hope that it will bring more ow and
more awesome to your life!
high performance modular system - endless possibilities for ow
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FLOWTOYS MODULAR SYSTEM - COMPONENTS
FLOWLIGHT-FS: World’s most revolutionary LED glowstick. Beautifully sculpted poly-
carbonate shell refracts full spectrum LEDs. 40 adjustable modes with many bright
and beautiful color and pattern options, kinetic awareness, accelerometer response,
battery and charge level indicators and more. 1 rechargeable AAA provides 3-27
hours run-time. Connect as many as you like to ll your tubes with lights.
CAPSULE LIGHT: Incredibly strong polycarbonate shell diuses 12 LEDs into a single
pixel of a million colors. MicroUSB rechargeable Li-ion battery for 6-77 hour run-time!
Link up to 2 together. Intuitive one-button interface and “kinetic awareness” enable
you to select and adjust a virtually innite variety of amazing light patterns.
1”TUBES: Highest quality polycarbonate extrusion, transparent yet virtually bullet-
proof, connects to caps and connectors via snap-button holes. Available in a variety
of interchangeable lengths for instant reconguration.
STAFF CONNECTOR: Polycarbonate joints with integrated snap buttons that se-
curely connect 2 tubes. Built-in suspension cushions owlights for high impacts. Plus
its highly-engineered structural design looks so cool ...
CORD CONNECTOR: Cord connectors enable a strong and reliable connection
between your owtoys tubes and leashcord. Screw holes align with holes in tubing
for a very secure connection.
FLOWCAP: Thick, soft, durable silicone body. Inner polycarbonate snap-cap buttons
snap securely onto tubes and release with a rm twist. Built-in button compatible
with capsule lights; connects to owlights with adaptor.
POD SHELL: Beautiful, thick, super-soft and durable silicone, built-in button
compatible with capsule lights, strategic internal petal-ribs provide structure and
focus mass at the bottom for great rotational inertia. Possible to connect to ow-
lights, but not recommended. Pod shells attach to tubes with a friction t - please
read instructions and use caution.
FLOWMASS: These translucent crystalline-looking weights add more inertia to your
ow and optimize the balance of your owtoy. They can be added to crystal cases
and owtoys 1” tubing. Add two or more if you like your tools heavy!
KNOB-LEASH: Adjustable integrated leash with knob handle and minimal hardware.
Made with owcord—the rst cord designed for poi spinning, and comfortable knob
handles. Highest quality for durability, aordability, comfort and endless ow!
LINKED CORD CONNECTOR: Two cord connectors linked by a user-adjustable cord
that forms a exible connection between 2 tubes. Allows you to create chucks, tri-
sectionals, cubes, tetrahedrons, ails and more.
KNOB-LEASH W/ CORD CONNECTOR: A pair of knob-leashes with knob handles,
adjustable owcord, and cord connectors.
DART CORD CONNECTOR: A 10’ length of owcord with a single cord connector to
create a martial owdart.
More components, details and info available on www.owtoys.com
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CAPS :: FLOWCAP
Your tube-based props come standard with owcaps. The owcap is compatible with both
owlights and capsule lights, and securely clicks into any owtoys 1”polycarbonate tubes.
FLOWTOYS MODULAR SYSTEM - INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIGHTS
Modular system props are compatible with both owlights and capsule lights - instructions
for your lights are included in a separate manual with your prop.
CAPS :: POD SHELL
Pod shells are intended for use with capsule lights only. Can be used as caps for sta ends.
Pod shells provide great rotational inertia for stas and baton ends, but are not recommend-
ed for other tubing-based props like owpoi, rope darts, chucks and clubs.
INSERTING CAPSULES INTO POD SHELLS:
Capsules MUST have their C-ring installed before inserting into pod shell. Insert capsule
with C-ring into the bottom of the pod shell rmly. Check button for normal operation. If the
button is dicult to press, check that the capsule is all the way inside the shell and the C-ring
is properly installed on the capsule. Also check that there is not a C-ring already in the pod!
ATTACHING POD SHELL ONTO TUBE:
The pod shell attaches to the tube with a friction t. Push the pod shell over the tube rmly,
ensuring the plastic tube is between the capsule and the silicone tube inside the pod that
holds the capsule in place.
Be aware - the tube must be clean and the edge of the silicone that holds the capsule must
cover the holes in the tube for a secure t. Silicone does not stretch out, warp, or relax like
other plastics, and as long as it is installed correctly the pod cannot y o during use. You
have been warned. We will not replace parts that go ying due to inadequate connection!
DETACHING/ATTACHING FLOWCAPS TO TUBES:
• To detach, twist rmly to release the buttons and pull.
• To attach, place cap over tube, push and twist until snap-but-
tons click into the holes.
ATTACHING/DETACHING FLOWLIGHTS TO FLOWCAPS:
• Push the narrow “head” of the owlight into the adaptor, then
insert owlight+adaptor into the owcap.
• Twist until the adaptor clicks into place. The sides of the light
should align with the buttons in the cap.
• To remove the adaptor with the light, push the button on the
cap while twisting the light.
• To leave the adaptor in the cap, pull light out while gripping
the cap.
Tip: If your owcaps feel squeaky when attaching to the tubing, you can lubricate the connection
with a tiny bit of grease - often the oils from your hand are enough to remove the “stiction” between
the plastics, and give you a nice smooth connection.
ATTACHING CAPSULES TO FLOWCAPS: Your capsules should not have a C-ring in-
stalled. Insert capsule into owcap button side rst. Twist until it settles into place. The
“shoulders” at the end of the capsule must be aligned with the buttons in the cap for it
to t in the tube. You’ll feel a small wiggle - this is normal.
*click!*
*click!*
*click!*
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INSTALLING FLOWMASS: Flowmass is slightly tapered with more material on one end—
make sure the heavier end is installed at the far end of your prop, where it counts.
Adding mass to a crystal case: Thread the leash through the mass. Hold leash with one
hand and pull the mass along the length of the case with your other hand until the mass is
in place. If this is dicult, try hooking your leash onto a doorknob or other secure object.
Do not lubricate mass, as this can cause it to slip o.
Positioning the mass on a crystal case: There is a circular symbol on the mass that should
align with the button facet on the crystal case, which also aligns with the owlight button.
This allows you to feel for the button from the outside, and creates the most aesthetically
perfect positioning of the mass with respect to the crystal case.
Adding mass to tubes: Apply a little bit of vaseline/petroleum jelly to the inside surface of
the mass and slide the tube through it. Ensure there is enough clearance at the top for your
owcaps to click in properly and securely.
Tips for using the sta connectors:
1. Rub the connectors and inside of the tube with your ngers, the natural oils from your hands
will lubricate the connectors and tube just enough to make for a smooth t.
2. if you twist it one way and it seems tight, don’t force it. Twist it the other way and see if it’s
supposed to release that way instead.
3. Avoid having sand/grit fall between the connector and the tube. Clean as needed.
STAFF CONNECTOR TO TUBE:
• To attach, insert the sta connector into a tube, twist until connector buttons click
into the holes securely.
• To detach, twist the tubes in opposite directions to disengage the buttons from
the holes then pull.
The buttons are directional:twisting one way will release one half of the connec-
tor, while twisting the other way releases the other half. Try not to twist them out
the wrong way as this can weaken or break the part.
LINKING 2 CAPSULES
• Remove the o-rings from the leash-port (battery side) of two capsules.
• Pry open one shell enough to insert the link then reinstall the O-ring.
• Roll the second capsule’s O-ring over the rst’s, then connect the second capsule to
the link and roll the O-ring onto it. It is also possible to install and remove the link by
prying and holding the capsule open with the O-rings in place - if you have strong
ngers! Only two capsules can be connected - both buttons should face out.
Compatibility: Capsule links are only compatible with capsule shells since mid 2013.
Some older versions do not separate in a way that would allow this link to work prop-
erly. Please check our web support page for details. If your capsule is not compatible,
contact us at support@owtoys.com.
CONNECTING FLOWLIGHT TO FLOWLIGHT: If you have two or more owlights in
one tube, you will need to attach the opposite ends of the owlight to each other for
the lights to t properly, and slide in and out of the tubes properly.
Be sure to click them together and apart sideways (laterally as shown in the picture),
NOT up and down in the direction of the pivot (vertically), as this can cause splitting
at the seam and loosen the connection.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR POI, DARTS & OTHER LEASH-BASED PROPS
KNOB-LEASH + CORD CONNECTOR
Your tubing-based poi and darts come with an integrated leash system made of“owcord” - the
rst cord engineered for poi spinning with perfect smoothness and optimal give.
Your knob-leash comprises a pair of knob handles w/ a washer and extra owcord to adjust your
leash length, and connects to tubes via a cord connector with 2mm hex head screws.
ADJUSTING THE LENGTH OF YOUR KNOB-LEASH
Adjusting your leash to t your body and style is an easy and important step to optimizing your
poi experience.
Loosen the knot on the end with the extra cord, and move the position of the knot to lengthen
or shorten your leash. Test the length and adjust as needed - a popular length is from hand to
shoulder. Tighten the knot and nish your leash (see instructions below). The result is a high
performance leash with minimal hardware or knots.
Finishing the leash end:
• Tighten the knot. Cut excess cord o with scissors.
• Melt the end of the knot with a lighter and while the
end is still soft/melted, use the edge of the lighter to
atten and shape the end of the knot onto the rest of
the knot. This ensures the knot will not come undone.
Tip: if the melted plastic sticks to the lighter, it’s too hot. Wait a second before shaping it.
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INSTALLING FLOWCORD ONTO CORD CONNECTORS
Your tubing-based poi or dart should come with cord connectors and leash already installed.
You should NOT need to remove the connectors, but if you need to re-install:
• Melt end of cord (to prevent fraying). Push + twist cord to thread it through cord connector.
• Slide a small washer onto end of owcord (you can use pliers to help pull it through).
• Tie a simple overhand knot below the washer – don’t tighten it yet! Check and conrm how
long you’d like your leashes to be.
• Once you nd your ideal length, tighten the knot, and trim o excess cord with a pair of
scissors, leaving 1/8”or 3mm extra to melt. Finish leash end (instructions above).
• Snug the washer up against the knot.
INSTALLING CORD CONNECTOR TO TUBE
• Pull the knot and washer up and inside the connector before installing onto your tubes.
• Insert connector into tube. Align screw holes in the connector with holes on your tube. If
o-rings are sticking to the wall of the tube, use your nger to apply a little bit of petroleum
jelly or any other safe grease (lip-balm, hand-lotion, etc.) to the inside of the tube.
• Once the cord connector is seated in the tube, holes aligned, use the 2mm hex head screws
and 2mm hex key provided to secure the cord connector to your tube.
• Be sure not to strip the threads by over-tightening – this could cause them to fail later.
SAFEGUARDS AND PRECAUTIONS
This guide outlines basic safeguards in using your owtoys. The precautions and instructions
presented cannot cover all possible circumstances and situations that may occur. In using any
owtoy, the user understands that common sense and caution cannot be built into the product,
and must be provided by him/herself. Please read all instructions before use.
1. Flowtoys are intended for practice, play, performance and movement meditation. Do not use
for any other purpose.
2. Do not use products under the inuence of alcohol or drugs. Consult prescription labels to de-
termine if a particular drug would impair your judgment or reexes. If so, do not use this product.
3. Stay alert and use common sense. Do not use this product when tired or distracted. Be aware
when in the presence of fragile or breakable objects.
BEFORE USE: Check for damaged parts before using any product. Ensure caps, connectors and
battery doors are fully secured. Most owtoys are made of individual pieces that can separate
during use if not properly assembled.
GENERAL CARE: Repair or replace damaged or worn parts before use. Do not use damaged
products.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE: Maintain all Flowtoys products with care. Store in a clean, dry envi-
ronment. Avoid over-exposure to sunlight: UV rays compromise the integrity of plastics.
UNAUTHORIZED COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS: Our products should not be combined with
products or parts from other manufacturers, unless specically authorized by us and such other
manufacturers. Any unauthorized product combination may void the warranty of our products
and other manufacturers’products.
Warning: This product is not intended for use by children age 14 and under.
2017.11
Don’t ask yourself what the world needs.
Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go and do that.
Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. - Howard Thurman
To the illuminated mind the whole world sparkles with light. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thank your parents.
A pint of example is worth a gallon of advice.
If you have an idea, make it happen. Ideas won’t work unless you do.
Do or do not ... there is no try. - Yoda
Drink lots of water. Stretch. Breathe.
I’m trying to free your mind. But I can only show you the door.
You’re the one who has to walk through it. - Morpheus
DO GOOD. BE AWESOME. MAY THE FLOW BE WITH YOU!
Visit owtoys.com for more information, inspiration, videos, instructions and tips.
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