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Weathermatic Weathermate Controller |
Scope:
TXS Industrial Design was charged to design a completely new, consumer sprinkler controller sold through contractors. TXS assisted Weathermatic in all phases of the product development process from early concept design to user testing, multiple prototypes, 3D detail design and production liaison. Starting from the inside out, TXS designers addressed users needs by establishing a formal set of programming steps and created an interactive simulation that allowed users to program the sprinkler controller. Valuable information was gathered during user testing which influenced and improved the final design. TXS designed and produced 15 prototypes in 2 months and developed production part assemblies in 6 months.
Accomplishment:
Weathermatic, established in 1945 is a manufacturer of water efficient irrigation products and has successfully focused on the commercial controller market. Weathermatic decided to produce a product for contractors to be installed in new tract homes. With this new product came a new set of end user issues that needed to be addressed. Weathermatic had limited experience designing consumer style products, so TXS guided Weathermatic to a solution that accommodated all of the stakeholders including sales & marketing, manufacturing, contractors and homeowners; while producing the product on time and in budget.
Innovation:
Several innovative features developed in the sprinkler controller, including a one-dial design, which is the main point of interaction with the device. It guides users to program the simple features first (ie. Time….) and as they gain confidence, program the more difficult features. The simplified interface is the keystone of the product and the reason it has been successful. Another unique feature is the remote control. Weathermate’s remote control has become extremely popular. This small hand held transmitter allows users to turn on and off any group of sprinklers from anywhere in the yard. Great for checking the system!
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