Nest as a Security System

    • Personal Project
    • 2014
    •  

How might we implement the functions of a security system into the Nest's physical design?

The Nest Thermostat is an exciting new paradigm in the design of intelligent climate control within the home. Its design does not have to be limited to thermostat only operations, as this concept of how adding a few new interface elements can convert it to a functional security system while maintaining the same industrial design and input modality. The main menu would maintain simplicity and offer three immediate options: arm, configure, and arming without motion sensors for securing the home at night.

Main UI for Nest as a security system.
The main screen of the security system with and without alerts.

The main menu would maintain simplicity and offer three immediate options: arm, configure, and arming without motion sensors for securing the home at night. The main menu with displays alerts at the top of the screen, notifying the user of activty in the home detectable by sensors.

Disarming and emergency screens.
Disarming and emergency screens.

The disarm screen keeps the warming theme of the Nest thermostat. It alerts the user of what prompted the alarm to trigger and allots time to disable. Selecting numbers is reminiscent of a circular combination lock, pressing to select each numeral. Required is also the capability of reporting emergency sensor incidents, such as a fire detected in the kitchen.

Emergency menu activated.
Emergency menu accessible at any time.
Emergency menu can be accessed with three quick twists. This was found to be faster than double pressing the screen during testing.

Emergencies can strike at any moment, making it necessary for a home security system to allow for the quick deployment of emergency personnel. By twisting the control ring in opposing directions three consecutive times, the emergency menu will slide down from above. It enables the user to summon the police, emergency medical services, or fire department quickly and from any menu without cluttering the interface.

Armed with screen off.
Simplicity remains key when the system is armed.

Selected Work

More detail and projects available upon request.

ARt - Augmented Reality Touch

ARt - Augmented Reality Touch

Shown at LA Times NewStory 2018
Haptic Studio 2

Haptic Studio 2

Quick generation of haptic textures




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