Introduction
In recent years several leading US and EU operators have worked hard to develop their own product designs and user experience teams to create a unique product for their customers and markets.
As form and style are becoming a vital feature of CPE design, NetBit commissioned Richard Sharp Design to undertake a conceptual product design study to explore emerging directions and trends in CPE and how they could be applied to power supply design.
Richard’s study revealed three main emerging design themes for CPE:
- In the home
- New formality
- Pop tech
We will briefly explain what each of these themes is and how they could be applied to CPE power supply design to complement future designs of CPE video and data products.
In the Home
In the Home takes a simple form and enhances it with a white finish to blend in with items typically showcased within a household. Our design for this project uses a subtle finger indentation to promote ease of use through the ability to grip the power supply.
Example products: Google’s Nest & Pebble, Alexa devices
Market space: Neutral / Disruptive
Palette: Neutral
In The Home PSU
New Formality
New Formality utilises minimalism in the overall form to give character through angled part lines and a softened front view. Subtlety is key here for contrasting textured parts to create a subtle finishing palette. Typically, this theme uses strong colours such as black. However, when using a white and light grey, this concept takes on a more domestic feel to blend in with the home environment.
Example products: Xbox One, Apple Watch, Amazon Firestick
Market space: Traditional / Neutral
Palette: Black, Silver, White, Grey
New Formality PSU
Pop Tech
Pop Tech explores a playful/experimental direction of design that uses a graphical 2D approach. Diagonal embossed lines have been included in this concept to tie in with NetBit’s branding whilst creating a visual interest that can act as finger grips. Minimalism is key here to the simplicity of the form. Lastly, the use of colour has been added to make the power supply ‘POP’ and brings the concept to life whilst tying into modern tech trends that value aesthetics.
Example products: iPhone XR (available in a variety of colours), Coloured smart speakers
Market space: Expressive / Disruptive
Palette: Bright colours
Turning concept to reality
At the end of November 2019 at a technical marketing day we showcased prototype models designed to represent the look, feel and size of a real power supply so we could solicit feedback on each design theme. The prototype samples were well received with a lot of positive feedback and comments. All this feedback will be used to help us refine the designs further.
Next steps
During 2020 NetBit will continue to work on this conceptual study and how each theme could be used in power supply design to complement both existing and future CPE product design for our customers.
If you would like to learn more about this conceptual design study or find out how we can help work with you on your own custom case or power supply design please contact our sales team or email: sales@netbit.com
