Revolutionizing Light Switches: Introducing "Free Touch"

Award-winning design by Ding Wang offers a new, convenient way to control lighting

The inspiration behind "Free Touch" came from the inconvenience of fixed light switches. Traditional switches require users to go to a specific location to control the lights, often resulting in extra wiring and occasionally irrational switch positions. Ding Wang's design addresses these issues by introducing a wireless switch that can be placed anywhere, offering a more natural and intuitive user experience.

"Free Touch" consists of two parts: the switch and the baseplate. The switch is a small wafer equipped with a new type of human body pressure sensing technology. Users can attach it to any location they find convenient, and a simple touch can control the lighting. The baseplate features a card slot and a solar panel on the back, charging the battery with solar energy. When the switch needs charging, users simply place the wafer into the card slot.

Measuring just 30mm*30mm*2mm, "Free Touch" is small, flexible, and unobtrusive. It can be attached to a variety of surfaces, such as the head of a bed to control a bedside lamp, a doorknob to control room lighting, or a chair armrest for easy access. This flexibility allows users to create more unconscious, convenient ways of controlling their lights.

The design and production process of "Free Touch" presented several challenges. One of these was the creation of an ultra-thin pressure sensor, which required fitting numerous components into a small switch. Additionally, the technology for signal transmission between the switch and the lamp posed a significant challenge. Despite these hurdles, Ding Wang and his team successfully realized their innovative design.

The "Free Touch" project began in November 2017 in Zhengzhou, China, and was completed in February 2018. The design is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and a commitment to improving user experience. It offers a fresh perspective on a common household item, demonstrating how design can transform everyday objects and make our lives more convenient.