Dormakaba Nexa

A cutting-edge electronic door lock system designed to enhance security and personalization for any space.

Role

Student Designer

Industry

Electronic Products

Duration

8 weeks

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Project Overview

Problem and User Research

41% of managers of public spaces often struggle with rigid, one-size-fits-all access systems that lack personalized control and real-time information, leading to inefficiencies, limited flexibility, and inadequate visitor experiences. (IFSEC 2022)

How might we create a customizable, user-friendly access system that provides real-time information, empowering facility managers to seamlessly control entryways and enhance the experience for all users?

Concept Ideation

Went through multiple stages and iterations of sketching, physical prototyping, and user testing to brainstorm, ideate, and conceptualize a plethora of ideas that met the design prompt and user needs. Each iteration brought new insights, driving the development of innovative and practical solutions.

Hardware Development

Finalized concepts from the ideation phase were further developed using 3D CAD modeling and digital renderings, refining the hardware design to create a cohesive and functional product that integrates seamlessly with the intended user environment.

Project Overview

Problem and User Research

Concept Ideation

Hardware Development

Software Development

With the physical hardware complete, the focus shifted to developing a digital software product to accompany the system. This software was designed to complement the hardware, creating a cohesive electronic door system that combines smart functionality, ease of use, and real-time control.

User Testing and Refinement

The final stage involved multiple rounds of user testing and feedback loops, ensuring both hardware and software met user needs. Iterative refinements based on real-world testing helped polish the system into a comprehensive, user-friendly solution ready for deployment.

Reflection

The Dormakaba Nexa product received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both users and the judges on the Dormakaba design team, earning me the Outstanding Product Design Award (2nd Place)! This project was an invaluable learning experience, allowing me to merge my industrial and UX design skills into a single cohesive effort. It was a unique opportunity to tackle real-world design challenges and deliver a product that resonated with its target audience.