In 2012, a team of HAWK University students created a traffic light concept, StreetPong, that took the world by storm. Their video for the StreetPong project went impressively viral so fast that it compelled designers Amelie Künzler, Sandro Angel and Holger Michel to make a real prototype to put to the test. After two long years, StreetPong was approved by the city of Hildesheim, Germany, and has subsequently been installed just recently.
Renamed ActiWait, the StreetPong gaming units are not only a fun way to pass the time while waiting for a red light to change, it also ensures people put safety first. Pedestrians may not be as inclined to jay-walk if they have the option of playing some StreetPong with those on the other side of the crossing instead.
Traffic Light Video Games
StreetPong by HAWK University Makes Waiting at a Red Light More Fun
Trend Themes
1. Gamified Traffic Solutions - Designing interactive and entertaining systems that promote safety during traffic.
2. Interactive Street Infrastructure - Finding ways to incorporate play and technology into everyday objects like traffic lights.
3. Urban Leisure - Developing innovative ways to entertain and engage people during their daily commutes.
Industry Implications
1. Transportation - Integrating gamification technology into traffic systems to increase safety and driver/pedestrian awareness.
2. Gaming - Incorporating technology traditionally used for gaming into public spaces for the purpose of entertainment and safety.
3. Urban Planning - Considering the use of innovative, interactive infrastructure to improve public spaces while maintaining safety concerns.