Human-machine indicators are becoming more advanced every day, especially in the home. However, these devices must still feel easy to use, no matter how complex the technology inside them may be.

One look at the new Otto thermostat demonstrates the beauty and function of simplicity. With fewer buttons, these high-tech controls still feel extremely simple to operate. To help simplify the device, many of the controls are available through an app rather than taking up space and complicating the thermostat interface.

From door locks to thermostats, Otto Smarthome Systems are built to the exact specifications of a home — because they start with the blueprints.

Here’s how the process works:

• Builders upload the specific blueprint of a new home to Otto’s website.
• Otto sends a pre-programmed kit tailored to the exact layout of the home.
• Once the kit is registered and installed by the builder, homeowners can move in with a fully integrated control system for temperatures, locks, energy usage, security, blinds, and more (depending on the package ordered).

Having a one-click solution saves the builders time and hassle in installing the system, and homeowners don’t have to do anything to set it up once they move in.

When it was time to upgrade Otto’s smart thermostat design, the client had big plans and a short timeline.

Back to Basics with an Advanced, Backlit Device

New product designs and upgrades can take up to a year to develop, test and get into production. For our client and Otto founder, that simply would not do. He wanted to cut development time by 75%, and when he went searching online for a potential backlit button solution, VCC’s portfolio offered the obvious choice for his design requirements:

• Development timeline of three months
• A solution that no longer requires a mechanical button
• Visibility even when backlighting is off
• Intuitive, capacitive touch sensors

The OEM purchased VCC’s off-the-shelf capacitive touch sensor and overlay from one of our distributors. However, additional engineering support was needed to ensure the microcontroller was programmed correctly to control the motor and provide other desired functions on the thermostat.

When the client reached out to us, we worked in close collaboration with the Otto team to ensure all components and circuitry within the advanced thermostat achieved peak performance.