Description:

The aim of this development was to create a new and innovative range of outdoor switchgear, combining a form and aesthetic suitable for the modern NZ architectural environment with an engineering design and details to achieve a reliable, functional and safe product solution when exposed to outdoor conditions.

The design solution had to consider everyday use, making operation intuitive and easy for any member of the home regardless of age and physical abilities. The engineering and construction had to be resistant to potential rough use and different use scenarios due to the outdoor environment the product would be installed in.

The outcome looks simple, robust and fit for purpose. A range of switches and sockets for the modern NZ outdoor home environment. This simplicity is the result of a successful design process bringing together all the elements and requirements of the product into a successful result.

The base structure and internal layout of mounting components and wiring details are all focused on the installer’s requirements. Making their job easy to achieve an ideal installation that will provide the base for a lifetime of reliable operation and performance.

These internal details are hidden from the end user, shrouded in the simple and elegant external form and materials. Materials that have been specified and tested to ensure they provide resilience against long term exposure to water, dust, UV and the potential for rough treatment they will be exposed to through their lifetime.

The outer cover plates provide users with the unique ability to change the final aesthetic of the product. Satin finish cover plates are matched perfectly to existing interior ranges of switchgear allowing for indoor or outdoor cohesion of product aesthetics. While the ability to change these cover plates to options manufactured in solid marine grade aluminium in a range of anodized finishes allows the user the option to make a unique aesthetic statement.

The position, size, movement and sound of the switch rockers, along with the force required to insert and remove a plug have all been considered and designed to enhance the users experience of the product.

The outcome is a unique and innovative range which will provide a base to define the direction of future developments in the outdoor electrical products.