Nissan Concept UX and Design Language
Company Airlift
Introduction Date January 9, 2017
Why is this project worthy of an award?
Pulling from our experience in developing new modes of interaction in transportation, Nissan asked Airlift to develop a new autonomous driving interface to guide the transition from human to autonomous modes of driving. Prior to this project, Nissan didn't have a cohesive UX system or visual language. Beginning with the IDS concept at the Tokyo Auto Show the process began with creating a new point of view and forging the path to production for future model years. Bringing personality into a vehicle is a huge feat as we become inundated with AI assistants and chatbots having the car act as a partner as opposed to a tool is key. Interactions enabled from an outward-facing screen on the dashboard displays friendly messages such as “after you” directed at pedestrians and other motorists. While being driven, the cabin of the IDS features a steering wheel with two handle-like pods, a simple digital instrument cluster, and a heads-up display. When the driver wants to rest, the steering wheel and the instrument cluster retract into the dash, and a huge screen that stretches the entire width of the dashboard pops out to let the passengers access social media networks, applications such as Skype, emails, and more. The entertainment and navigation functions are also displayed on the screen. Continuing this vision for Nissan resulted in the development of a continued collaboration with Airlift to create the Vmotion 2.0 Concept, ultimately winning the Best Concept Vehicle at North American International Auto Show. The Vmotion 2.0 isn't a typical concept car, full of amazing but ultimately meaningless specs and crazy power numbers. Instead, it's all about design.
What else would you like to share about your design? Why is it unique and innovative?
Design is what separates cars from one another, and gives an unspoken voice to the brand. Working closely with Nissan to help establish the multiple car concepts, Airlift focused on every facet of the experience which had to be thought out not only digitally but also in collaboration with exterior and interior design. Full integration from all design disciplines had to work seamlessly for Nissan's strategic vision of the future for an autonomous driving experience. The 2 concepts and subsequent UX and Design Language deliver a hint at what we can expect from the next all-electric Leaf and future models in terms of design and technology.
Who worked on the project?
Patrick Corrigan : Head of Creative Kevin Carr : Head of 3D Experiences Diana Povieng : Design Director Peter Synak : Senior Designer James Yi : Senior Animator Jiaren Hui : Senior Animator
View the project video: https://vimeo.com/159566566 | https://vimeo.com/270794272/b94651efc4 | https://vimeo.com/270794293/deef2d1dcc
Nissan Crossing
Company Eight Inc.
Introduction Date September 24, 2016
Project Website https://www3.nissan.co.jp/crossing/en.html
Why is this project worthy of an award?
The excitement of driving has been brought back to the streets of Tokyo with the opening of the Nissan Crossing in Ginza. The space embodies the aerodynamic qualities of automobiles with sweeping lines and dynamic, continuous forms. Illuminated ribbon-like elements spatially define the exhibition areas overhead and merge with the walls and floors to create a cohesive environment. Nissan Crossing takes its place among the Iconic architectural destinations in Ginza. The design delivers an immersive experience unlike any other. Focused on innovation that excites. The two level space focuses on the primary ways to transform actions into stimulation and sensation. It’s where you can experience the relationship to Nissan and the effect of Nissan’s creativity. Where visitors feel the strongest and most meaningful emotions that Nissan can deliver. The ideas being offered bring a new level of engagement to see and feel Nissan. Transformational and emotional. Features that capture the exhilaration of the newest ideas and products that Nissan brings to the world. The arrival is a continuous revolving deck animating the entire corner of the Ginza Crossing. Meant to provide the visitor with an exhilaration and participation around the continuously moving centerpiece of Ginza.
What else would you like to share about your design? Why is it unique and innovative?
Nissan Crossing embodies the aerodynamic qualities of automobiles with sweeping lines and dynamic, continuous forms. Illuminated ribbon-like elements spatially define the exhibition areas overhead and merge with the walls and floors to create a cohesive environment. Synchronized LED mesh screens at the ground floor turntable and along the entire length of the 2nd floor facade give passers-by an immersive view from the driver's seat. Once inside, visitors are greeted by Nissan's staff and inducted into a digital and sensory experience within the two-storey showcase of leading-edge automotive technologies. Each exhibit is seamless with the physical design of the interiors to enhance the visitor experience. A non-linear exhibition design encourages visitors to take a self-directed tour based on their own interests, informed by an accompanying app they can download onto their personal mobile device. The ground floor includes a turntable, the main stage area for two vehicles, the curving Concierge desk and theater. An integrated lift above the main stage allows for vehicles to be exhibited on the second floor without compromising on space. Visitors use the adjacent escalators and elevators to move between floors. Architecturally, the circulation and exhibition spaces are continuous when the EXPCenter is open to increase the sense of expansiveness of the overall exhibition spaces. Upstairs, the exhibits continue with a timeline of Nissan's design history, a stage for sustainable technology vehicles and a second turntable. One final exhibit allows visitors to customize their own vehicle through an interactive touchscreen table and monitor. Visitors can take home a virtual version of their digital Nissan vehicle through the app. Nissan can also follow-up leads and track visitor interest in the exhibits through the app feedback loop and thus improve visitors experience. Social media connectivity adds another layer of richness and interactivity to the experience, broadening the reach of the EXPCenter. A bespoke Nissan boutique and cafe make up the other half of the second floor. Product offerings are curated and collaboratively designed.
Who worked on the project?
Tim Kobe, Founder and CEO Shabbar Sagarwala, Principal Basit Khan, Principal Evelina Sausina, Senior Designer Manuel Oh, Designer Mayumi Seto, Principal Syu Ukan, Architect Naotaka Egashira, Architect Minako Koike, Project Manager Erik West, Visualisation Director
View the project video: https://vimeo.com/210310340
NRMA Fireblanket
Company Tricky Jigsaw
Introduction Date December 4, 2016
Project Website https://fireblanket.nrma.com.au/
Why is this project worthy of an award?
Tackling a massive problem: Every year, bushfires endanger 1-in-10 Australians. Since 2000, they have killed 198 people, destroyed 4,000 homes and cost the economy over $4billion. We have developed an always-on technology that utilises both hardware and software to detect bushfires. It’s a wireless sensor network that covers large expanses of Australian bushland. It can pinpoint, track and predict where bushfires spread. It’s called NRMA Fireblanket. In partnership with CSIRO’s Data 61, Australia’s leading data science group and the Rural Fire Service we validated Fireblanket’s ability to detect fire, map smoke density and provide insight to predict fire progress. Built for NRMA Insurance, it’s not only going to help in the bushfire battle – it’s also had an impact on how Aussies see Australia’s biggest insurer. Shifting them from a remedy based business into a preventive one. It’s a proven innovation that’s on track to equip fire authorities with timely information to manage bushfires more effectively. Whilst providing much-needed peace of mind to at-risk communities. Overcoming a harsh environment: Aussie bushland is harsh and beautiful. It’s also where a lot of Australians choose to call home. That comes with risks, the largest being bushfires. Whilst they can't be stopped they can be managed if detected early. Currently, fire spotters and other line-of-sight methods monitor bushland. Which is restrictive and gets even harder after dark. NRMA Insurance has always helped communities rebuild after bushfires. But they wanted to do more. We wanted to show NRMA’s more helpful, caring side so we looked to technology to help us shift NRMA’s role from rebuilding communities after bushfires, to building community resilience to bushfires. Influence originally came from smoke detectors. An affordable way to warn of fire at home. But what if we could make one for the bush? Topography, weather conditions, and flora create both a challenge and an opportunity. So we explored the possibilities of IoT, wireless network technologies and sensors.
What else would you like to share about your design? Why is it unique and innovative?
Realtime bushfire identification and tracking: NRMA Fireblanket; is a network of sensor ‘nodes’ that analyse the air for bushfire smoke and monitors live weather data. Placed on existing infrastructure, they form a blanket over at-risk communities. It’s a powerful combination of hardware and software working in harmony. When smoke is detected, a fan kicks-in to ensure consistent airflow and an accurate reading. The nodes then communicate with one-another over the network to triangulate the source of the smoke. Authorities are alerted, whilst the modelling software, tracks and then predicts the course of the fire in real-time. Providing firefighters critical information when it’s needed most. Calibrated for Australia. At the heart of Fireblanket are dust particle (PM2.5/10) and CO/CO2 sensors that are calibrated to distinguish a bushfire from a BBQ (bushfires consist of unique chemical compounds due to the flora). The casing that communicates. The external design is inspired by the node network but protects the sensors to collect vital data. On the outside, the nodes are injection molded polycarbonate which delivers heat-resistance plus it will self-extinguish, rather than accelerate the fire. Whilst stainless-steel woven mesh on the inside protects the sensors and circuitry. Modular and repairable. The exposed fasteners, while providing a ruggedized appearance, allow for quick access to the internals for servicing as well as the ability to switch out certain parts of the external chassis if they are damaged in the field. Nodes that network. Nodes simply fasten to existing infrastructure forming a mesh wireless network around at-risk communities. Once smoke is detected, nodes communicate, triangulating the fire’s position. Authorities are then alerted. Meanwhile, fire is tracked via smoke density and modelling software helping predict fire spread for preventive action. Affordable and scalable. Affordable off-the-shelf IoT hardware blended will accelerate commercialisation. Whilst built for Australia the learnings can tackle wildfires anywhere.
Who worked on the project?
Name Ben Cooper Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Project Director Name David Jackson Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Creative Director Name Luke Simkins Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Creative Director Name Michael Canning Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Executive Creative Director Name Ben Welsh Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Executive Creative Director Name Lauren Thompson Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Project Director Name Josh Bryer Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Creative Name Paul Coles Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Group Head Name Karlee Weatherstone Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Group Account Director Name Ross Dixon Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Executive Product Director Name Jason Crane Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Customer Experience Lead Name Ulrik Gotsche Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Customer Experience Strategist Name Roger Calaf Company Tricky Jigsaw Position Product Engineer Name Kevin Brown Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Head of Tech Name Ben Patterson Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Product Engineer Name Richard Sellies Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Digital Designer Name Laura Stevenson, Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Senior Account Director Name John Marshall Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Senior Account Director Name Justin Payne Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Account Manager Name Jamie Watson Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Senior Strategist Name Mick Perry Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Executive Producer Name Josh Moore Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Filmographer Name Lil Schroeder Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Senior Broadcast Producer Name Olivia Reddy Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Producer Name Lucinda Hayden Company M&C Saatchi Sydney Position Content Producer Name Mitchell Brown Company Vert Design Position Industrial Design Name Andrew Simpson Company Vert Design Position Industrial Design Name Belinda Arundell Company NRMA Position Product Lead Name Jane Merrick Company NRMA Position General Manager- Marketing & Customer Experience Name Karissa Fletcher Company NRMA Position Senior Manager, Brand Strategy, Product Comms And Product Delivery
View the project video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT7gg7-I_4M&t=10s
NSynth Super
Company Google Creative Lab
Introduction Date March 13, 2018
Project Website https://nsynthsuper.withgoogle.com/
Why is this project worthy of an award?
We created an interface that enables musicians to explore a new world of sounds created with the NSynth algorithm in an intuitive way through a format they’re familiar with: a synthesizer. We took one of the most exciting machine learning research papers (NSynth) and made its potential accessible to non-researchers and musicians. The tech was inaccessible without very specialist skills; but even if you were able to run the algorithm, its output was not easily useable, lacking an interface that people can interact with in an intuitive way. We explored how we can use machine learning techniques (like dimensionality reduction) to create a new interface for the multidimensional space of sounds generated by the algorithm. The easiest way for musicians to create is through dedicated hardware interfaces, and this is what we did for the output of the NSynth algorithm. We created over 100k new sounds with the algorithm and put them in a format that musicians intuitively know how to use, and can quickly be expressive with. The interface also unlocks new possibilities for performance, allowing people to easily move between worlds of sound by swiping the screen, rather than manually adjusting multiple parameters. Without the interface we created, this would be a big folder of sound files. Instead it’s something that can be used to make music.
What else would you like to share about your design? Why is it unique and innovative?
Magenta is a research group within Google, exploring how machine learning can help musicians in new ways. One of their first projects was NSynth a machine learning algorithm that uses deep neural networks to learn the characteristics of sounds, then create thousands of completely new sounds based on these characteristics. To make the algorithm more easily accessible, we took the sounds that NSynth generates and put them into a musical instrument that enables musicians to play them in a more intuitive way. We call it NSynth Super. It fits seamlessly with a musicians’ existing equipment. All they need to do is plug in a MIDI controller, like a keyboard, and use the touchscreen to explore brand new sounds. We wanted lots of musicians to access machine learning tools to create music, so we made all of the source code, schematics, and design templates available for download on GitHub.
Who worked on the project?
Google Creative Lab
View the project video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTXU9Z0NYoU
ONMO - Sound Unbound
Why is this project worthy of an award?
The time had come for OnMobile to evolve: from a B2B company creating analog ringback tones for phones, to a company exploring the digital frontiers of sound. Working together, we conceived a vision of sound as the next frontier. Rather than sound remaining confined to conventional and expected places such as social networks and streaming apps, we positioned OnMobile as the first company to offer a new way of unleashing sound’s potential as a communication tool. We called it SOUND UNBOUND. Personalized sound apps that respond to the individualistic and spontaneous, who could explore their own sounds and experiment with the product suite. It all began with discovering a sonic treasure hidden in the vowel sounds of the name OnMobile. Staring at OnMobile, a strange word stared back: ONMO. Discarding a bland, generic name, ONMO could now spur excitement and spark curiosity. Furthermore, the shape of the letters evokes something unique: they can be transformed into sound waves that interact with the personalized digital sound apps ONMO now brings to phones, transporting the name itself into a consumer-facing sonic world.
What else would you like to share about your design? Why is it unique and innovative?
As ONMO unleashes sound though personalized phone apps, our solution unleashes sound visually. The new logo now represents the motion of sound vibrations. When music or noises are coupled with this logo, the ascenders on the M and N strokes respond and echo through from the logo’s horizontal axis. The volume of the sound, or amplitude, determines the length that the signature will grow and shrink: the size of the vibrations. The pitch of the sound, or frequency, determines how quickly the signature will move: the speed of the vibrations. The second key element of the visual system was creating a color palette inspired by the geographical roots of the company: India. The vibrant color palette and dynamic hues evoke Bangalore and are paired with a clean, simple typeface and a pattern scheme customized according to personality and mood. Sound Unbound.
Who worked on the project?
Jacob Lindell, Designer, Karen Yau, Design Director, Jess Lehmann, Strategist, Scott Thompson, Senior Designer
View the project video: https://vimeo.com/superunion/review/271756273/73849f34ca
