Lumo Interface
Figma
UX/UI
Prototyping
User Research
Motion Design
Period
October – February 25/26
Team
Felix Strobel, Ismael Simoncini
Tools
Figma, Arduino, After Effects
Strategies
User Research, Wireframes, Prototyping, Concept
Concept
Lumo is a smart washing machine that combines simplicity, efficiency, and sustainability. With a central dial as its control element, automatic laundry detection, and customizable profiles, it automatically optimizes every wash cycle. Three modes—AI Wash, Profiles, and Programs—enable flexible use, while transparent resource displays make consumption visible. The result: an intuitive, stress-free washing process with reduced water and energy consumption.
Research
To develop a well-founded concept, we first analyzed the entire washing machine market. We examined various models from manufacturers such as Miele, Bosch, Siemens, AEG, and Samsung, comparing features, user interfaces, and technical specifications—from AI-based features to water consumption and the number of programs. At the same time, we conducted tests, interviews, and observations to identify key pain points: cluttered interfaces, lack of guidance, too many programs, and complicated controls. From these findings, we selected the most relevant issues and used them as the basis for concept development.
First Approach
To address the identified pain points, we developed a central control element: a rotary knob with an integrated display. This combines navigation and information display in a single component and simplifies operation to intuitive turning and pressing motions. The display shows context-sensitive content directly at the point of interaction, eliminating the need for additional controls. By drawing on familiar interactions—such as analog temperature or speed controls—the interface remains intuitive and accessible despite its smart features. The result is a minimalist interface that eliminates complexity and focuses on the essentials.
Final Prototyp
To bring the user interface concept to life, we developed a functional prototype with an integrated display. The interface consists of a plexiglass panel that has been painted black on the back and features a cutout for an iPhone screen. The rotary control is connected to an iPhone via Bluetooth and sends inputs as keystrokes that control the Figma prototype in real time. This design enables a realistic simulation of the user experience and allows users to experience the interaction between the physical control and the digital display. The prototype demonstrates how complex controls can be operated intuitively through the combination of haptic elements and visual feedback.
Result
Lumo brings together all the insights gained from research and the development process into a well-thought-out overall concept. The interface is based on a modular bubble system that serves as a central visual element, consistently structuring navigation and content. On selected screens, the bubbles are arranged in a circle around the rotary control and echo its shape—creating a clear visual connection between the physical control element and the digital display. The rotary control slightly overlaps the display and visually merges with it, making it appear embedded in the interface rather than the other way around.
Navigation is structured horizontally: turning the dial moves the content linearly, creating a direct link between physical movement and digital navigation. For parameter settings such as temperature or spin speed, we use analogies from the real world—familiar controls like thermostats or speed regulators are digitally replicated to make interaction intuitive.
Drei Modi bieten flexible Einstiege: AI Wash erkennt Wäsche automatisch anhand von Gewicht, Verschmutzungsgrad, Farbe und Material und passt alle Parameter selbstständig an. Im Bereich Profile lassen sich individuelle Wascheinstellungen speichern und wiederverwenden, während Programme schnelle Standardabläufe für den Alltag bereitstellen. Ein intelligenter Waschmitteltank mit automatischer Nachbestellfunktion verhindert leere Tanks, und die transparente Ressourcenanzeige macht Verbrauch von Strom, Wasser und Waschmittel nach jedem Waschgang sichtbar. So können effiziente Einstellungen identifiziert und als Profil gespeichert werden.
