Can a large colour screen improve the user interface of a heavy duty compressor? Used the right way it can. The Atlas Copco version of this story is about using the screen graphics to give the most comprehensive status information to the operator on how and what the compressor is doing. The new user interface design with a large digital meter in the center of the panel - along with smaller status icons and measured values was tested with users to make it as intuitive as possible. At the same time the home screen has a unique design that makes it a recognisable part of the branding for the new compressor series.
Atlas Copco manufactures heavy duty compressors used in rugged environments like road building or mining. DEIF A/S from Denmark is a supplier and strategic development partner for the Operator panels that are part of the compressor.
Kamstrup is a leading supplier within metering systems for water, electricity and distributed heating. Symbols and icons are used throughout Kamstrup's products, software, documentation and marketing.
Though until recently there were no corporate guidelines for usability, design and use of Kamstrup's icons. The different departments and project teams each did their best, but the approach resulted in different icons with varying design approach and finish were used for similar functions. This inefficient way of working resulted in random user experience in different Kamstrup products and software systems.
The new Kamstrup icon library changed this situation to the better: each new icon is designed based on a corporate Kamstrup design DNA that frames the overall usability approach and look and feel. The benefits are obvious: the users experience is better due to a consistent naming of functions and icon design. The project teams can easily apply the most used Kamstrup icons from the library. New icons are designed according to the DNA guidelines that make them part of the family and available for other project teams.
Big Dutchman International is a leading supplier of farm equipment - specialized in delivering turnkey farm projects globally.
design-people has developed an interaction design DNA for Big Dutchman, which creates one interaction design experience across equipments. From advanced PC controls that enables users to supervise and control several farms at a time, to local touch screens and Mobil devices. The DNA is based on thorough studies and analysis of users, this approach enabled us to target the interaction to specific user needs.
The strategic benefits of the interaction design DNA for Big Dutchman is:
- Clients need less support, because of easier interaction
- Clients adjust equipment more easily, increasing equipment output
- Clients buy again because it will reduce staff training
- The design guide reduces development time of interaction design for new machines
Services: user research, HMI analysis, feature workshops, icon library, templates, interaction design strategy, design guide
Marel is a leading supplier of industrial food processing equipment with business units in Iceland, Holland, UK & Denmark
The goal for the collaboration with design-people was to enhance usability and design of all Marel’s food processing equipment, creating one feel and one look across 200 machines in their product portefolio.
Field studies of users at production sites across Europe were followed up by workshops involving all business units at Marel. design-people’s developed usability- and design-guides for the new touch screen based interaction design DNA - giving the users a more safe, efficient and intuitive interaction with the advanced machines.
Services:
User-research, interaction design analysis, feature workshop, GUI design, design guides, implementation strategy, support setup
design-people has created a strong designline for Migatronic covering both product- and interaction design of a large range of welding equipment. An interaction design DNA that is applied to all Migatronic welding machines give the users instant familiarity and ease of use.
The designline was awarded an IF design award in 2006.
In 2010 the innovative welding torch "migatwist" was awarded a red dot design award.
Ambu’s new NEOX ECG electrode for premature babies is an innovative novelty in its field. Safe handling of the electrode with small patients that weigh around 1 kg is a challenge. design-people contributed to a user guide, that ensures safe and smooth handling of the electrode. Different visualisation styles and illustrations were tested with users in order to make the messages clear.
Besides, the new user guide makes it possible to use the same illustrations on packaging, hand-out and in an animated flash version of the user guide – creating a more unified communication.
Services: user guide illustrations, user research & user feedback, graphic refinement, animated flash version of user guide
The goal for this design study was to revitalize the concept of a kitchen radio by making a significant
design statement. Basic radio functions and a powerful clear sound are combined with a unique touch interface and an eye catching slim-line design. The touch scroll bar used for adjusting the sound volume gives a subtle and classy interaction experience.
High end materials and surfaces together with the simple and sophisticated way of operating the radio
makes this radio study especially attractive for the female target group. All together a stunning example
of how well known products can be revitalized by consistent and innovative design thinking.
Services:
Design research, product design
The user research carried out on Polycom’s cordless phones showed a need for better interaction sounds as e.g. “battery low”, “out of reach” and the ringing tones. Thus we created a new range of interaction sounds, which improves the overall user experience of the phones.
Our award winning research program on Sonic Interaction Design forms the basis for our work proces in this field. Part of it is to define the specific role and qualities of each signal sound before going into design mode.
Multimedia simulation of sounds was applied for user tests before the succesful launch.
Services:
User research, interaction design, sonic interaction design
Triax new digital TV receiver allows the users to enjoy a variety of pre-paid TV channels.
In daily use the screen menu and the remote are the users primary controls. Thus the receiver itself was designed as an exclusive and slim black box with only one button. All secondary functions are hidden behind the front lid. The compact dimensions make it possible to wall mount the box behind your flat screen TV.
The innovativ integration of interaction- and product design is well received on Triax’ international markets..
Services:
Screen icons, product design, interaction design
The new ‘Aura’ battery charger makes life easier for people who depend on an electric wheelchair. Based on field studies of users, the new Aura contains a number of innovative features.
A cable management rim around the cabinet combined with a wall mount fixture make the new charger far more convenient to use. The new circular display gives clear status feedback about the charging process to the user while at the same time contributing to a strong design DNA.
Services:
User-research, interaction design, product design, product name, pictures, brochure
The new line of Migatronic welding torches extends a range of easy-to-use welding equipment designed by design-people. User field studies revealed the need for improved ergonomics to make the torch a good tool for extensive everyday use. Thus an innovative twist mechanism was made part of the design concept. The possibility to adjust the angle of the torch gives a far more convenient and less stressful use of the torch for the welder. A good example of valuable userdriven innovation and design.
Engineering partner: Formkon A/S
Services:
user studies, ergonomic concept, interaction and product design
Deif A/S is a leading manufacturer of power control equipment and marine controls. Today’s consistent design DNA of products and user interfaces was started about 10 years ago. It has been extended and refined with many new products since then.
The GC-1F is the latest of a range of universal Gen-Set controls. The Man-machine-interface is devided into a daily use section and a menu-navigation area for advanced users.
Services:
End user research, Product design, User-interface design
PR electronic’s programmable transmitters are known for their technical excellence and their characteristic design.The new removable interface unit extends both. The design development contributed to intuitive ergonomics and an effIcient mechanical concept of the new unit. Furthermore the design integration of the transmitter and it’s interface unit was a challenge.
Services:
Mechanical concept, Ergonomics, Product design



