Zhengyang Chen

Problem & Inspiration

• Addresses the gap between cryptography's real-world importance and how abstractly it is usually taught.
• Uses progressive puzzles based on Caesar, Rail Fence, and substitution ciphers with immediate feedback.
• Inspired by both the historical role of ciphers in power and diplomacy and Apple's privacy-by-default philosophy.

Key Technologies

• Built a narrative, level-based iPad experience in SwiftUI with transitions and immediate interaction feedback.
• Organized the puzzle flow through state-driven UI logic and accessibility-friendly interaction paths.
• Turned abstract privacy concepts into a product experience users can explore, test, and understand.

Recognition

• Decode Dash was recognized as a Swift Student Challenge 2026 WINNER.
• The project stood out for making cryptography approachable through playful storytelling and privacy education.

My Responsibilities

• Responsible for full-process iOS client development, from architecture design to UI implementation.
• Coordinated team members for requirements analysis and feature iteration.

Key Technologies

• Built native interface using Swift/SwiftUI, optimizing interaction experience.
• Integrated local data storage and third-party APIs.

Results/Outcome

• Successfully launched on TestFlight, highly recognized by judges, awarded Provincial First Prize.

Key Technologies

• Implemented browser-side eye tracking using WebGazer.js, optimized calibration algorithm.
• Built backend with FastAPI to handle high-concurrency eye movement data streams and persistent storage.

Results/Outcome

• Implemented a low-cost eye-tracking test solution without external equipment.
• Showcased in the National Finals, technical implementation recognized by judges.

Key Technologies

• Integrated Notion API as CMS for data management and Webhook synchronization.
• Implemented multi-layer caching: server-side memory cache, CDN image proxy, smart cache invalidation to reduce API calls and response time.

Results/Outcome

• Supported by JD.com, ISDT, etc. Currently operating a 400+ member community.

Award Info

• Institution: BNBU Division of Business and Management
• Level: School-level 2nd Prize

My Responsibilities

• Team leader, responsible for pre-planning and team coordination.
• Responsible for post-editing to ensure video quality and creative expression.