02
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Makerbot Sketch Sprint
Makerbot Sketch Sprint
Makerbot Sketch Sprint
Client
Client
Makerbot
Makerbot
Type
Type
Firmware UX Design
Firmware UX Design
,
,
Year
Year
2024
2024
Subject
Subject
Scaling Excellence for the Classroom
Scaling Excellence for the Classroom
the challenge
Following the launch of the Ultimaker Factor 4, the mission was to redefine the "passenger experience" for the classroom. We needed to adapt a high-performance industrial engine into a tool that felt safe, approachable, and "timeless" for an educational environment.
the insight
Bolder Accessibility: We tailored the UX with "Bigger, bolder components" to ensure the interface was intuitive for students of all ages. Safety-First Features: To solve the "uncomfortable truth" of unsupervised hardware in schools, we integrated secure PIN code features and enhanced safety protocols. Industrial Alignment: I collaborated deeply with industrial designers to ensure the "Visual language" of the firmware matched the physical "foam core prototypes" and final chassis of the printer.
the solution
Rather than building from scratch, we took a "Build-first approach". By leveraging the existing firmware design system, we extended the variables from the Factor 4 to create a "Scalable brand toolkit" for the Sketch Sprint. This ensured a "Proprietary" feel while maintaining technical consistency across the Ultimaker/Makerbot ecosystem.
the impact
The Outcome: Delivered the "fastest new Makerbot" while maintaining a "Playful personality" suitable for education. Efficiency: Successfully "Digitised" the transition from industrial to educational hardware using a "Modular design system".
the challenge
Following the launch of the Ultimaker Factor 4, the mission was to redefine the "passenger experience" for the classroom. We needed to adapt a high-performance industrial engine into a tool that felt safe, approachable, and "timeless" for an educational environment.
the insight
Bolder Accessibility: We tailored the UX with "Bigger, bolder components" to ensure the interface was intuitive for students of all ages. Safety-First Features: To solve the "uncomfortable truth" of unsupervised hardware in schools, we integrated secure PIN code features and enhanced safety protocols. Industrial Alignment: I collaborated deeply with industrial designers to ensure the "Visual language" of the firmware matched the physical "foam core prototypes" and final chassis of the printer.
the solution
Rather than building from scratch, we took a "Build-first approach". By leveraging the existing firmware design system, we extended the variables from the Factor 4 to create a "Scalable brand toolkit" for the Sketch Sprint. This ensured a "Proprietary" feel while maintaining technical consistency across the Ultimaker/Makerbot ecosystem.
the impact
The Outcome: Delivered the "fastest new Makerbot" while maintaining a "Playful personality" suitable for education. Efficiency: Successfully "Digitised" the transition from industrial to educational hardware using a "Modular design system".
