five
The next generation of home internet
98% of UK households now own a broadband router. However, more than 3/4 of users prefer to hide away, rather than display them. The aesthetics of a router should be considered as much as a piece of furniture, ornament or household device. Five’s hub replaces the conventional router, breaking away from the limitations of existing physical broadband infrastructure. The move to 5G brings interchangeable SIM cards; allowing flexibility of network providers for the user.
- Recognition
- Red Dot Design Award
Existing home broadband problems (from left: confusing, high cost, poor positioning, landline limitations, lack of infrastructure, network locks)
Colours, materials, finishes and inspiration
Extracts from ideation and development sketches
Soft modelling with foam for form and proportion
CAD mockups to test CMF
Final design of hub
The "five" collection
Mesh network extender
Exploded view of hub
Exploded view of mesh adapter
Closeup of fabric facade
Notification LED illumination
Insitu render of Five hub
Prototyping the product
Final prototypes
Retractable cable
Packaging design
Packaging closeup of eco-foam
App design
Final design
Five’s hub replaces the conventional router, breaking away from the limitations of existing physical broadband infrastructure. The move to 5G brings interchangeable SIM cards; allowing flexibility of network providers for the user. In addition, the absence of a phone line allows freedom of positioning around the home. LED lighting allows visual diagnostic feedback.
The mesh networking wall plug helps users to increase Wi-Fi coverage across their home. Aimed at users within larger/older homes, where Wi-Fi blind spots may occur. Removal of the safety cap (protecting infants from electrical shock) creates an available socket for other devices. The integrated Ethernet port allows “Power-Line” connectivity indirectly with the hub.
A companion mobile application seamlessly guides the user through setting up their home network. The intuitive interface allows the user to; monitor network speeds, solve issues via live chat, manage devices accessing the internal network and wirelessly upgrade the hubs firmware. Furthermore, push notifications deliver live feedback on the status of five.
Acknowledgements: Co-Designer (Fleming, A), Prototyping (Fleming, C), Photography & Videography (Cate Castleton Photography)
Date: January 2021
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