"We are completely revolutionizing air conditioners," writes startup Transaera, "with advanced materials that remove moisture from the air before cooling it. Then we use the heat generated by the air conditioner – instead of wasting it – to dry the material for the next cycle. The process uses less electricity, resulting in long-term cost savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions."

The company had the technology, but what they didn't have was a finished product. To realize it, they contacted ID consultancy Fresco Design.

"The aim of this project was to transform Transaera's breakthrough cooling technology into an appealing, home friendly portable AC product," writes Fresco. "Transaera's vision extended beyond functionality, they aspired to create an aesthetically pleasing appliance that homeowners would proudly showcase, enhancing the ambiance and overall comfort of their living spaces."

OUR PROCESS

Reimagining a household product

Inspired by Transaera's brand, Fresco transformed the typical portable AC—often clad in white plastic with obstructive window hoses—into a harmonious blend of technology, functionality, and home décor. Our rapid concept exploration focused on materials, aesthetics, and designing for common window sizes and styles.

This phase of the design was crucial: it ensured the product's dimensions and duct design were optimized so that the hose was not visible and the window view and natural light were preserved, thereby enhancing the living environment without compromise.

Engineering innovation

Fresco's design and engineering team collaborated with Transaera's engineering team closely on this effort. Together, we found solutions for design for manufacturing and ease of assembly in innovative air chambers with moving parts, stringent air sealing, and vibration isolation requirements.

Looks-like, works-like prototype

Our prototyping process was both efficient and effective, resulting in a prototype that not only looked like the final product, but also functioned as intended for testing, engineering refinement, and stakeholder presentations.

We explored assembly techniques and heat/moisture-resistant materials to ensure cost efficiency. To achieve a wood-like finish, we utilized hydro-dipping methods.

Proving a path to manufacturing

Beyond creating a visually and functionally accurate prototype, Fresco's goal was to prove a clear path to production for Transaera. This was essential to validate manufacturability, forecast costs, and generate excitement and investment, pushing Transaera's product into its next phase of development.

Concepts in context with 3D viz

To better understand how the designs would fit into various home settings, we created 3D apartment environments for in-context product visualization. These virtual photographs helped facilitate user research, gathering feedback on CMF (color, material, and finish) options, product orientation, and features.

You can see more of Fresco Design's work here.