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Final Project

Concept: Smart "Fu" (福) Decoration​

What does it do?​

This project starts from the object: "Fu" (福) sticker we hang on the door every Chinese New Year. Instead of using paper that fades over time, I want to make a small electronic "Fu" decoration that can stay with the family all year round.

Smart Fu concept

On the wall, it looks like a glowing "Fu" character, always bright and festive. Below it hangs a simple pull-ring, similar to the one on an old bedside lamp.

With a gentle pull, the display changes:

  • First pull: shows the current time
  • Second pull: shows today's weather, so you know how to dress before going out

It keeps the feeling of "good fortune arrives" (福到了), while adding everyday usefulness.

Who is it for?​

This project is designed for a real home, not just a technical demo.

It is for:

  • Family members who enjoy traditional decorations
  • Parents who want a quick glance at the weather before leaving
  • Elders who prefer simple physical interaction instead of mobile apps
  • Guests who notice it on the wall and smile when they see it glow

How does it work?​

Inside the device, there is a custom PCB that controls the system.

By default, the LED display shows a red or golden "Fu" character. When the pull-ring is activated, the system switches display modes:

  • One pull shows a digital clock
  • Another pull shows weather icons and temperature information via WiFi

My Inspiration​

Traditionally, when Chinese New Year comes, we will tight FU to our walls, doors for docrations, it means lucky and fortunes comes. And last year, I hand-wrote a large "Fu" character with ink on special paper. I really loved it, but one year later, the color had faded.

Ancient Chinese valued the idea of being “round on the outside and square on the inside” (外圆内方). “Round” suggests adaptability and harmony with others, while “square” symbolizes integrity and moral backbone. This is how I would describe myself to others, and it is also the concept that shapes my Fu project.

Circle FuHandwritten FuSquare Fu

This made me think: can I make a "Fu" that doesn't fade? And not only decorative, but also useful in daily life?

Although there are many LED signs and weather gadgets in the maker world, I have not seen one that combines:

  • A traditional "Fu" symbol
  • A simple pull-string interaction
  • A long-lasting display
  • A warm, home-like feeling