Ome Smart Doorbell, Product Design
The project began with a rudimentary technical prototype for proof of concept. From there we developed initial user experience and paper prototypes, based around a modular design, which allowed users to add on different functionalities by adding different functions to the base product, for example, adding a microphone, speaker or video module.
After considering the target market and developing the business further we decided to focus on a simplistic voice-based version of the product. This combined the simplicity of communication with the idea of creating a smart home product which wasn’t tech-cluttered but included just the right amount of tech.
We continued product development in collaboration with Map Project Office. Together we developed sketches and foam models to explore forms, further market research to understand our user and explore interaction and user experience to understand where the products would sit within the home.
After extensive product development, we came to the final design, which excellently united the two parts of the product, doorbell button and chime, yet distinguished their individual uses. The ‘button’ has a super slim profile so that it can be fitted to any door frame, and is made from robust materials to suit the outside of your home: a texture polycarbonate plastic body, paired with an optional brass button and engineered seals to make it weather resistant. Whereas, the ‘chime’ is made from soft materials, including Scandinavian Kavadrat fabric with branded fabric tag, making it sit well alongside other home interiors, but still subtle enough not to be imposing.
We then worked on refining the industrial design. Working with Instrument Industries and our manufacturing partners. Together we took the conceptual model and tweaked the form to be suitable for injection moulding, developing the tech alongside this to fit all components within the mould. One of the biggest challenges was engineering the product so that it maintained a slim profile. We also worked closely with our manufacturing team to develop the process for casting the brass buttons and upholstering the chime fabric. As we chose manufacturing partners within the UK, we could work closely to oversee processes. We even assembled the first products off the manufacturing line ourselves.