Interview with Li Sung Shan

Our company isn’t just about products; it’s a dream realized. We’re a tribe of like-minded souls, united by the vision of “Solving Problems, Changing the World.” Our brand philosophy revolves around three Cs:
Conversion: We strip away noise, preserving the essence of design to solve the core issue.
Connection: Every person holds untapped potential. By linking minds, we unleash powerful creativity.
Creation: We believe in our innate ability to think creatively. With the right application, we can devise inspiring solutions that benefit others.

Design is my oxygen—it flows naturally. As a problem-solver, I can’t help but tackle everyday challenges. Take FPV Drones, for instance. Their CPUs tend to overheat, and most drone housings are plastic. So, I designed a foldable metal FPV housing—better heat dissipation, longer CPU lifespan, and enhanced safety. Even with my own car, I brainstorm auto accessories. Design isn’t a job; it’s woven into my life as a designer and inventor.

As a designer and inventor, I don’t limit myself to specific products. My portfolio spans foldable pens, eco-friendly straws, power banks, chargers, phone accessories, drone structures, carabiners, wireless charging desk lamps, water bottles—even architectural concepts. It’s not about the products; it’s about the thrill of problem-solving. Success lies in using my creativity to make Earth more convenient, one design at a time.

MagSafer 2.0, the winner of the A Design Award, embodies my essence as a designer. It’s not just a power bank; it’s a statement. Imagine a power bank that defies wires—both for charging itself and your devices. MagSafer 2.0 achieves this wireless utopia. Its design? A nod to Bauhaus principles—clean lines, functionality, and purpose. No superfluous curves or unnecessary parts—just like my logical, straight-thinking self. And the double-sided magnet? It securely attaches to any surface, freeing your hands from charging cables. MagSafer 2.0 isn’t just a product; it’s my design philosophy in action!

After founding my company, my very first creation was the FLIPEN—a foldable pen. The inspiration? A friend from church wanted a commemorative item to aid Bible reading. So, I put on my thinking cap and designed a pen that could double as a bookmark. But here’s the twist: FLIPEN isn’t your typical cylindrical pen. When folded, it takes on a sleek triangular shape. Why? Well, when we grip a pen, we naturally use three fingers—forming a triangle. So, a triangular FLIPEN feels more ergonomic than its cylindrical counterparts. And guess what? It’s not just a pen; it’s also a bookmark! With an internal magnet, FLIPEN securely attaches to book pages, making it a reader’s best friend.

I have a strong affinity for titanium alloy because of its exceptional hardness. I once used titanium alloy to create the casing for the MagSafer 2.0, which I personally assembled. Although the assembly process was challenging, the satisfaction I felt upon completing it was immense.

My most creative moments occur when I encounter a problem. As an inventor and designer, I’m constantly thinking about solutions. Inspiration strikes swiftly because my mind is always at work, analyzing and seeking answers.

When designing, I emphasize a product’s usability. While aesthetics matter, true value lies in substance. Otherwise, it’s just a pretty piece of trash. Practicality is paramount in product design.

Designing makes me happy and fulfilled. Problem-solving is my passion. I strive for excellence, envisioning customer scenarios and using my skills to address any issues. The process is exhilarating.

Achieving a product’s realization is incredibly exciting. My designs often focus not only on appearance but also on production techniques and innovative technologies. Take my award-winning MagSafer 2.0, the world’s first wireless charging power bank that simultaneously supports input and output. It took extensive research and development, and the success feels rewarding and thrilling.

A product’s success isn’t solely about its appearance. Many products look different but offer similar functionality. To truly innovate, I focus on solving user problems. This requires knowledge in engineering, electronics, product structure, and production processes. Only then can a product come to life.

When evaluating a design, I consider two critical angles. First, does it genuinely solve a problem and meet users’ needs? Second, is the design built for longevity? A short-lived design risks being phased out by the market, which is environmentally unsustainable.

As a designer, I believe our responsibility lies in avoiding superfluous creations that contribute to production pollution and unnecessary products. My designs address unmet market needs and prioritize longevity. Sustainable products endure over time, minimizing waste—a duty we bear as designers.

While I haven’t participated in exhibitions, I’m honored that the MagSafer 2.0 power bank, which won the A Design Award, also received the German Design Award a few months ago.

My design inspiration stems from everyday life, but most importantly, I contemplate how our Creator designed this world. The golden ratio, physics, aesthetics—they’re all interconnected. By exploring the divine and understanding His methods, I integrate these skills into my designs.

Bauhaus Design captivates me due to its pure rationality. It eschews unnecessary lines, emphasizing both problem-solving and genuine sustainability. In this way, it aligns with my design philosophy.

I live in Hong Kong, which is a place where East meets West. Hong Kong indeed stands at the crossroads of cultures, seamlessly blending Eastern and Western influences. Its vibrant modern cityscape coexists harmoniously with centuries-old traditions. Whether it’s cuisine, art, architecture, or language, Hong Kong showcases a diverse and rich cultural tapestry

Email info@thinkthingstudio.com