GOAL
The goal is to improve the generic “over the range” microwave control interface by applying industrial design and micro-interaction methodology. Also reducing any unnecessary visual clutter and user interactions.
State diagrams studies
Current Over the Range Microwave's State Diagram
My Over the Range Microwave's State Diagram
Most of the time when using the microwave, one wants to prepare a quick meal. However, some of the buttons on a microwave panel that is meant for these functions are rarely used. These rarely used buttons/features can distract the user and may cause additional stress/confusion if the user is in a rush or suffering from fatigue. Therefore, some of these rarely used buttons/features can be omitted from the microwave’s control panel but are still necessary options that should remain within the system.
ideation
Getting ideas across quickly on paper was an important aspect of generating good UI and UX design. These sketches and notes have led to specific visual styling of buttons and GUIs.
design & solution
The adjustment knob, the ‘+MIN’, and the ‘X’ button are designed according to the most commonly used fingers [thumb, index, middle]. The index finger can easily reach the ‘+MIN’ button. The thumb can easily reach the ‘X’ button. All three fingers together can control the adjustment knob comfortably.
For commonly used buttons, they can be designed with intuitive symbols to interpret their functions for the user. In this design, the panel does not have any numerical buttons. This function is left to the adjustment knob so the user can feel that they are in control of a set time. Feedback from the system is displayed on the LED screen.
The centerpiece is stationary, and its orientation will not be affected by the adjustment knob's rotation.
These buttons and symbols are laser cut on stainless steel sheet metal. This simplifies the manufacturer's assembling process during production.
GUI Design
It was very important to design this GUI to communicate with the user visually. I consider icons/symbols as a universal language that can communicate intuitively with users across all cultural backgrounds.
