Panda: A Modular Climbing Wall for Interactive Indoor Fun

Revolutionizing Children's Home Climbing with Interactive Games

Rock climbing not only helps promote children's brain development, but also can coordinate the whole body, many parents want to add the corresponding facilities for children at home. However, the traditional home climbing wall disassembly and installation process is complicated and not enough playability, children easily lose interest. Therefore, the team wanted to integrate projection-based interactive games into the climbing process and modularize the traditional wall to solve this problem.

Panda is a rich interactive children's home climbing system designed by Zheng Xu and his team. It includes three components: a customized wall frame, interchangeable handholds modules, and interactive projection, allowing children to experience rich and fun interactive climbing games at home without leaving home. Compared with traditional climbing walls, Panda's rock point module is easier to install and adjust, while also maintaining children's interest in sports with interactive games.

The wall frame of Panda is made of wood as the main material, providing a sturdy and reliable structure. The handholds module, which is the key element of the climbing experience, features an ABS plastic shell and offers interchangeable handholds made of wood and fiberglass. This allows users to choose the material that suits their preferences and needs. The handholds module has a size of 192mmx172mmx100mm, providing a comfortable grip for children of different ages.

One of the highlights of Panda is its interactive projection system. The team developed a variety of different types of games that users can enjoy while climbing. Children can interact with the wall by swinging their limbs, touching the projection, or interacting with the rock point. The modules provide feedback through sound, light effects, or expansion, enhancing the immersive climbing experience.

In order to use Panda, users need to measure the wall size and determine the wall design. Once the wall frame is completed, installation and commissioning can be carried out by a person. The system provides a diverse range of games, ensuring that children never get bored and always find new challenges to conquer. The interactive rock climbing system stimulates children's athletic talents, strengthens their bodies, and entertains them in a win-win situation.

The Panda project started in August 2020 and was completed in October 2021 in Hangzhou. It was exhibited in the Shanghai UXD Award in December 2021, showcasing its innovative design and functionality. Throughout the project, the team conducted extensive research, visiting climbing venues, interviewing instructors and parents, and conducting a questionnaire survey to understand the needs of the target users. This research formed the foundation for the design and development of Panda.

Panda has received recognition for its outstanding design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Sporting Goods, Fitness, and Recreation Equipment Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate resourcefulness, technical skill, and contribute to improving the quality of life. Panda's innovative approach to children's indoor rock climbing sets it apart from traditional climbing walls, providing a unique and engaging experience for young adventurers.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Zheng Xu
Image Credits: Zheng Xu
Project Team Members: Zheng Xu Xichen Li Jintao Nie Jiayan Zheng Yihan Liu Hang Li Fangwei Xu Cheng Peng Cheng Yao
Project Name: Panda
Project Client: Zheng Xu


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