In late 2021, my child became obsessed with Go. During the pandemic, he often had to go to a Go school for matches and competitions. I noticed many kids wore masks, but the Go pieces weren’t disinfected daily. Twice after tournaments, he fell sick, leaving me torn—regretful for letting him attend, yet unwilling to dampen his passion.
One rainy weekend, he wanted to play with a friend who’d gone out of town. When I offered to play, he refused, saying, “You always lose! It’s boring.” That’s when I wondered: Could I design an AI smart chessboard that was eye-friendly, allowed online matchmaking, and reduced germ spread? I thought of EPD (electronic paper display)—perfect for eye protection and low-carbon use. This sparked the design journey.
The AI Smart Chessboard: A Vision for Home & Education
Designed by AOC, this chessboard targets family entertainment, education, and parent-child interaction. It’s user-friendly, intelligent, space-saving, and multi-functional, featuring a 22-inch 256-color full-color EPD screen. The no-blue-light, flicker-free display lets users play for hours without eye strain—ideal for long training sessions.
AI powers the chessboard to help users learn, practice, and improve. It matches online opponents of similar skill levels, enabling parent-child bonding without health concerns. The sleek design uses an aluminum frame for durability, available in multiple colors to suit any space.
Beyond Go, it replaces traditional boards, timers, and accessories, cutting carbon emissions from manufacturing and logistics. When not in use, it doubles as a digital photo frame—an eco-friendly innovation.
Design Insights: Solving Pain Points with Technology
1. Core Functions: From Eye Protection to Smart Play
Eye-Friendly EPD Display:
The paper-like screen eliminates blue light and flicker, allowing 3+ hours of continuous play. An electromagnetic pen ensures precise moves (error <0.5mm), while physical buttons reduce touchscreen fatigue.
Intelligent Matchmaking Modes:
Beginner Mode: AI coaches (5 difficulty levels) offer real-time voice guidance (e.g., “This move controls the center—watch for counterattacks”).
Competitive Mode: Online matching with same-rank players, tracking win rates and generating skill growth curves.
Parent-Child Mode: Remote play via app with automatic handicaps (e.g., 3 stones) and fun effects (fireworks when capturing pieces), making games more engaging for kids.
Hygiene & Convenience:
Virtual pieces on the screen minimize physical contact, while a nano-antibacterial coating and daily UV-C sterilization (5 minutes) keep the board clean. No need to tidy pieces after play—it stores dozens of games built-in.
2. Scenario-Based Extensions
Daily Training:
AI replays mark key moves and generate analysis reports (e.g., “Win rate turned at move 45—should have used a small flying defense”). A built-in problem bank auto-grades exercises, saving mistakes for targeted practice.
Tournaments & Social Sharing:
Live-stream online matches via Go association platforms to avoid crowds. Share highlight GIFs with friends to boost motivation.
Parent-Child Control:
Set daily usage limits (e.g., ≤1.5 hours) and night mode via app. Parents can learn beginner strategies through recommended courses, narrowing the skill gap with kids.
3. Technical & Emotional Upgrades
Hardware Enhancements:
Haptic feedback (strong vibration for captures, gentle for normal moves) and light sensors that adjust contrast for different environments.
Personalization & Rewards:
Customize board skins (wooden, ink wash) and piece styles. An achievement system awards virtual medals and streak trophies, with points redeemable for physical Go sets.
Health Monitoring:
A camera detects poor posture, reminding users to sit straight (30cm distance). Every 45 minutes, an eye exercise animation guides users to relax.
4. Business Strategies
Offer free basic functions, with premium AI coaching and tournament access via subscription.
Partner with Go schools for rental packages, combining smart boards with online teacher guidance.
Encourage referrals: New users get 1-week VIP trials, lowering customer acquisition costs.
This smart chessboard isn’t just a game device—it’s a bridge between technology and tradition, blending eye care, education, and eco-friendliness to reimagine how we play, learn, and connect.
