Turning Luck
DIY Wooden Automaton Toy for Department of Visual Communication Design
The Turning Luck collection brings global good fortune to life through a series of interactive DIY automaton toys. Each model features a renowned lucky charm from diverse cultures, including the Maneki-neko and dreamcatchers, fostering a sense of cultural discovery. Vibrant colors and intricate illustrations represent each charm's unique heritage, while dynamic mechanical movements bring their symbolic luck to life. This all-in-one design minimizes waste by eliminating external packaging, contributing to a more sustainable user experience.
Download Press Kit № 159550
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Turning Luck by Wong Li Tong
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DIY Wooden Automaton Toy by Wong Li Tong
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Wong Li Tong Turning Luck
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Wong Li Tong DIY Wooden Automaton Toy
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Department of Visual Communication DesignBrand Logo
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Unique Properties
The 'Turning Luck' is a series of DIY automaton toys that users assemble, integrating mechanical interaction with cultural icons of good fortune. Featuring ten lucky charms from around the world like the Maneki-neko, Dala Horse, and horseshoe, each represents diverse cultural backgrounds and embodies unique aspirations for positive living. As users turn the handle, each model's vibrant effects come alive, promoting cultural exchange and sparking positive energy and playful interaction.
Tags
Positive Life, Interactive Design, Intercultural Communication, Entertainment, Environmentally Friendly, Puzzle Type
Production Technology
The 'Turning Luck' emphasizes environmental sustainability with eco-friendly materials like MDF and acrylic panels. Assembly tutorial videos on the official website minimize paper and ink waste. MDF is laser-cut and UV printed with our designs before packaging. The acrylic panels showcase elements representing ten countries, allowing users to see rotating gears inside. The website includes assembly tutorials, cultural stories for each charm, and showcases our brand's story and philosophy.
Design Challenge
Our initial vision was a mobile game where players strategically placed lucky charms, but we realized it lacked the genuine feeling of "good luck." So, we turned global lucky charms into DIY assembly models. Users build and interact with these models, experiencing the essence of good fortune firsthand. Designing dynamic movements was our main challenge. With thorough sketches and prototypes, we ensured smooth assembly and engaging functionality, resulting in a truly interactive
Project Duration
The project will start in Taiwan in June 2023, be completed in Taiwan in January 2024, and have an on-campus exhibition at the university in January 2024. The follow-up plan is to exhibit at the Taiwan National Design Exhibition in May and June 2024.
Operation Flow
Users can scan the QR code on the packaging to access the official website, where they can read the culture stories behind each lucky charm and watch assembly tutorial videos to assemble the model themselves. Once the model is assembled, they can then turn the handle on the model to activate its dynamic visual effects.
Research
We chose the theme of "good luck" because many Taiwanese turn to superstitious practices in life's challenges, seeking solace and satisfaction. These traditions, like Taiwan's "Guai Guai" snack and Japan's "Maneki-neko" reflect unique cultural practices worldwide. Coming from Malaysia, we're inspired by this enthusiasm, driving our curiosity to explore luck traditions globally.
Inspiration
In today's world, many seek good fortune and positive energy when facing life's challenges, desiring inner peace beyond material gain. 'Turning Luck' offers a hands-on experience with dynamic wooden models, allowing users to explore the symbolism behind global lucky charms. Users explore the symbolism of each lucky charm, gaining insight into diverse cultural traditions, fostering respect for global diversity, and ultimately creating a positive and enjoyable interactive experience.
Image Credits
Image #1: Designer Ng Kok Kiang,2023. Image #2: Designer Lim Chiew Hong,2023. Image #3: Designer Lim Chiew Hong,2023. Image #4: Designer Ng Kok Kiang,2023. Image #5: Designer Ng Kok Kiang,2023.
Project Overview
Turning Luck DIY Wooden Automaton Toy has been a Silver winner in the Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design award category in the year 2023 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Silver Recognition
Wong Li Tong was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2024, a testament to excellence of their work Turning Luck DIY Wooden Automaton Toy.
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