LightUp – Change for Good
OVERVIEW
LightUp – Change for Good is a connected coin jar developed during a two-week “Connected Objects” course at CIID. It links personal saving with global impact—each coin dropped lights up the jar and donates a small amount to energy projects in underserved regions. By turning a simple daily act into a meaningful contribution, LightUp encourages mindful giving through visible, tangible interaction.
CONCEPT & INSPIRATION
In a world where some people optimize their energy use daily while others still lack access to electricity, we asked: what if people could share energy from their own homes with those in need?
Inspired by traditional piggy banks and motivated by the idea of energy equity, we envisioned a domestic object that lets users contribute to global change through simple, habitual actions.
Each time a coin is dropped into the jar, it triggers both a soft glow as a personal reward and an automatic donation via PayPal. Real-time feedback via SMS, email, or social media informs users how their contribution is helping fund specific projects—turning passive giving into an active, transparent ritual.
DESIGN & PROTOTYPING
Our team used Arduino Yún to develop a connected coin jar that integrates savings, donation, and feedback. Early prototypes began with cardboard models to validate sensor behavior and user flow. We then refined the form factor with frosted glass, stainless steel, and a wooden lid to create a soft, ambient interaction.
A custom web platform allowed users to register, link their PayPal account, and track donation activity. The system was designed for subtle reward and seamless transaction: a coin triggers light and automatically transfers a predefined amount from the user’s account.
The jar became not just a savings tool, but a visible symbol of generosity.
PROJECT INFO
— INSTITUTION
Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design (CIID)
— TEAM
Arun Mota
Hsiang-Lin Yang
Yashodeep Gholap
— ROLE
Concept Development
UX Design
Physical Prototyping
— YEAR
2014
I co-developed the concept, designed the user experience, and contributed to both the hardware and interface implementation. I was particularly involved in material selection and physical prototyping to shape the tactile interaction.
This project marked my first time integrating Arduino Yún into a connected object, pushing me to rapidly learn physical computing, circuit design, and online service integration. Working collaboratively with two teammates from diverse backgrounds, I gained valuable experience in cross-disciplinary prototyping and user-centered system design.
LightUp was one of the most rewarding projects in translating abstract impact into meaningful, physical interaction.