MangoMango

Overview

MangoMango is an interactive play object that explores the relationship between touch, force, and light. Inspired by the familiar act of holding and squeezing a piece of fruit, the object invites users to physically manipulate its form and discover a responsive light hidden within.

Concept

MangoMango takes the form of a cut mango that can be held naturally in the hands. As users press their thumbs into the two sides and push outward, the mango gradually reveals its illuminated interior. The familiar fruit-like interaction creates an intuitive entry point, while the responsive light adds an element of surprise and play.

Interaction Design

The interaction is driven by pressure. As the user applies more force and pushes the mango outward, the interior LEDs gradually brighten. Releasing the pressure causes the light to dim.

Rather than creating a simple on/off response, the gradual change in light intensity directly mirrors the user's physical input, creating a more organic and expressive interaction.

Prototyping

The project began with 30 concepts exploring different forms of interactive play and methods of physical input. After evaluating the concepts, MangoMango was selected for further development.

The form was developed through 3D-printed prototypes, followed by mold-making and silicone casting to create the soft, tactile mango body. The final prototype integrates the electronics directly into the physical form.

Electronics & Arduino

An embedded Arduino-controlled circuit board detects pressure from the user's interaction and translates it into a corresponding LED response. The board is soldered to a flexible LED strip positioned within the silicone body, allowing the illumination to follow the changing pressure input.

Form & Material

A soft silicone mango body creates a tactile and squeezable experience, encouraging users to naturally grip and manipulate the object. The flexible material also allows the electronics and LED illumination to become integrated into the form rather than feeling like an external component.

Emotional Experience

MangoMango explores how a simple physical action can create an immediate and almost playful emotional response. The gradual reveal of light makes the object feel alive and responsive, encouraging users to squeeze, release, and interact with it repeatedly.

Outcome

A tactile interactive object that transforms pressure into light, demonstrating how Arduino and embedded electronics can be seamlessly integrated into a physical product. MangoMango turns a familiar gesture—holding and squeezing fruit—into an intuitive interaction between user, material, and light.