Nanoleaf Sense+ Controls

Pushing the boundaries of smart home lighting, Nanoleaf Sense+ Controls helps automate lighting by learning how users live in their spaces. Paired with the Nanoleaf “Nala” assistant, Nanoleaf Sense+ Controls provides the assistant with user inputted data such as brightness settings, motion detection, and colour temperature, to learn their habits with the goal to provide fully automated lighting.

Debuting at CES 2023, Nanoleaf Sense+ Controls was awarded the CES Innovation Honoree Award, with many other publications and news outlets spotlighting the product.

https://www.ces.tech/innovation-awards/honorees/2023/honorees/n/nanoleaf-sense-controls.aspx

Initial Redesign

When I was first brought onboard to Nanoleaf, I was asked to help with the redesign of the light switch, wireless button, and gateway after an internal survey was conducted. The general consensus was that the design did not fit into the existing design language of the brand. Coupled with some technical challenges with the manufacturing of the gateway design, a rework of the product line needed to be completed.

The Switch

The switch was decided to be kept similar to its existing form. The design team wanted to keep the scroll wheel as it was a nod to our strong presence within the gaming community. The task at hand was to improve upon the user experience of the switch. It should be intuitive, not requiring users to have to think at all to use.

The final design incorporated button mapping that better simulated a traditional rocker switch, making on/off functionality immediately recognizable. Dimming was kept in the scroll wheel, with indicator lights located on the bottom half of the top button. Programmable buttons are placed on either side of the wheel to allow for user assigned functions. An LED indicator lightbar was placed below the wheel for signaling to users when the motion sensor behind the top button was active. To keep a clean appearance, the face plate was designed to hid the mounting screws.

The Button

The redesign of the button began with the overall silhouette. It was decided to take a step away from the rounded form and bring back sharper lines to reflect the ones seen in existing Nanoleaf products. To mirror the switch, a rectangular shape was used, while using a pill-shaped rocker in the center to tie in the visual look of the wheel. Other aspects were translated directly over from the switch to make both products have an identical user experience.

A magnetic mounting plate was created to allow the button to blend in aesthetically to existing light switches. This gives users the option to place a wireless control point anywhere, regardless of existing electrical work. On the back, a child-safe lock was implemented to allow for easy battery changes.

The Gateway

The design intent of the gateway was to create a simple form that could easily blend into any home. The rectangular form factor was translated into this product, with the center button and motion sensor window mimicking the proportions of the Button and Light Switch. By opting for wall-washed lighting, it creates a gentler glow when triggered at night, preventing sudden bright lights.