“Simple Touch Remote Controller” for Asia
■Outline
With its simple operation panel and color scheme, this remote controller for centralized control makes it easy for anybody to operate and change the settings of multiple air conditioners and consolidates the specifications of three previously sold types of centralized remote controllers to perform all necessary air conditioning functions in just one unit.
■Thoughts from the Designers
We were overjoyed to learn that our remote controller with its simple operation and no apparent functionality won the design award instead of an air conditioner. The fact that it was appreciated for its simplicity speaks volumes about our uncompromising approach to design. In the development process, from product concept to design realization, we worked closely with local members and further deepened our relationship. In the future, we will continue to pursue and implement designs with the aim of enhancing our brand value from a global perspective of the company.
■GOOD DESIGN Jury Conclusions
Until now, touchscreen controllers for commercial use had complex functions, and many of them had an elaborate design that clashed with the room interior along with poor operability, but this product features a beautiful UI layout with fewer physical buttons while retaining functionality and operability. Unnecessary elements, such as borders, have been eliminated, allowing the controller to blend into space, while the subtle way it incorporates the company’s identity into design, such as its eccentric illuminated buttons, also receives our high praise.
Designer: Hiroyasu Kosuge
Air Conditioning Outdoor Unit for Asia
■Outline
This outdoor unit for room air conditioners sold in Southeast Asia has been designed for easy installation and maintenance. Even in places with limited workspace, such as apartment balconies, the design structure allows inspection and parts replacement from the top of the outdoor unit, making it safe and efficient to install and maintain. The polygonal structure of the outdoor unit retains its strength while achieving a simple, flat design that harmonizes with the building exterior.
■Thoughts from the Designer
To infuse design into a conventional utilitarian focused product , we started by identifying the pain points experienced by consumers, manufacturers, installers alike. These insights lead us to developed a product that is both affordable and tough to withstand the region's specific condition. We then form the design aesthetics to reflect toughness and modernism; to blend in with contemporary architectural styles, offering a harmonious blend of function and form. We hope this ASEAN centered value design better serves our customers in the region.
■GOOD DESIGN Jury Conclusions
Outdoor units currently being marketed today have many issues. These issues, such as environment and pricing, vary region to region, and the ASEAN market is no exception. In fact, a product like this reveals the many issues specific to the region. Apart from design and performance, many other aspects had to be confronted, including product cost, transportation cost, rigidity, and maintainability. It is highly praiseworthy that each aspect was extensively researched and investigated in the development of this product for commercialization. For products like this, merely overcoming one hurdle is not enough. This is why we highly commend the designers for systematically refining the product, including imagining the environment where the outdoor unit will be placed in apartment buildings.
Designers: Daikin Malaysia design team
“Floor Standing Air Conditioner Unit” for Australia and New Zealand
■Outline
This floor standing air conditioner unit features eco-conscious heat pump heating that perfectly complements local style heating. Leveraging Daikin’s unique two-way airflow, the product heats spaces with the warm sensation of a fireplace that local residents prefer, and it can also quickly send heat at floor level for people who only wish to warm their feet.
■Thoughts from the Designer
For product development, we revisited life events occurring around air conditioners to go beyond simple temperature control for maintaining comfort and envisioned a product that helps create a special ambiance for consumers. Because functions and lifestyles differ greatly for each region including Asia, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere, we regularly listen to local voices and work to deliver products that precisely reflect their wishes.
■Red Dot Jurry Conclusions
The clean design of the Floor Standing Air Conditioning Unit complements the ambiance of the living space while fulfilling its core purpose.
Designer: Mana Yamashita
Air Conditioning System for Kitchen (for China )
■Outline
This residential ceiling cassette air conditioner was designed for the Chinese market where large open concept kitchen and living room layouts have become increasingly popular.
Featuring a professional-grade oil-resistant panel, this air conditioner was designed specifically for the Chinese market where large amounts of cooking oil are used in food preparation, and it uses its horizontal flaps to create a comfortable environment by ensuring a uniform temperature throughout the space.
Attention to detail has created a straight-line motif and two-tone silver and black color scheme commonly used in high-end kitchen appliances to blend seamlessly in with the open concept kitchen and living room space.
■Thoughts from the Designers
The product aims to create a superior use experience for large kitchens. We believe that the kitchen is the heart of the family and needs to be comfortable and healthy. This air conditioning not only meets the temperature requirements of a large kitchen but also performs better in oil resistance, humidity control, mold inhibition, and ventilation, making users feel comfortable while cooking.
■Red Dot Jurry Conclusions
With Kitchen Air Conditioning, kitchens benefit from improved air quality and the appliance’s attractive appearance.
Designers: Zhuo Wang, Xiuqiang Zhang
