Launch of Black Air Conditioner for Europe! Behind the Scenes of Development [Employee Interviews]
Fujitsu General has recently unveiled the sleek black-colored "KH Series" and "KM Series" air conditioners for the European market!
Developed to meet European customers' demands, these air conditioners exhibit a color called "soft black," offering a gentle hue rather than a stark black appearance🖤.
In this blog article, we will present our new models, blending modern aesthetics with natural color tones, through insights shared by our development, manufacturing, and sales entity!
(1) Development Meeting Customer Needs
Firstly, we interviewed the product designer at Fujitsu General's head office to discuss the design process.
ー In a region where air conditioners are predominantly white, how did you approach incorporating black into the design?
Upon receiving a strong request for black air conditioners from a European customers, we extensively researched local interior trends. Leveraging insights from international product exhibitions and major trends in home appliances, we deepened our understanding and tailored our design decisions to align with European sensibilities.
Noticing that there are also many other colors such as accent walls, and a common practice is to paint over the existing paint, we focused on selecting colors and textures complementary to these architectural elements.
In selecting the color, we used paint and compared many shades of black. Finally, we narrowed down the options and painted a sample on the air conditioner to assess how it would look.
ー When formulating the design, what were your main considerations?
Our primary focus was on "designing from the customer's perspective." Through market analysis, we discovered a desire in Europe for air conditioners that seamlessly blend into their surroundings. Simultaneously, we aimed to cater to customers seeking black appliances.
The chosen color palette resembles a dark gray with a matte finish, termed "soft black," to strike a harmonious balance between subtlety and elegance. This subdued tone was selected over a pitch-black hue to avoid a heavy and oppressing appearance and ensure the unit integrates well with European interior aesthetics, particularly under ambient lighting conditions prevalent in the region.
(2) Upholding Quality at the Shanghai Manufacturing Plant
Moving on, we engaged with the quality assurance team at our Shanghai plant, one of the hub of our manufacturing operations.
ー What challenges did you encounter during the production phase?
The unique black paint design posed challenges due to its distinct resin composition and surface texture compared to our standard models. Achieving uniform color and finish across the products required precise adjustments in the painting and processing techniques for each component to prevent discrepancies.
ー How did you address these technical obstacles?
Effective collaboration among the design, development evaluation, and manufacturing teams was paramount. By aligning with the specified criteria, we fine-tuned the parameters through iterative prototype adjustments. This rigorous approach ensured consistent product quality and coating application standards, driving continuous enhancements across the entire production workflow.
(3) Awaited Product Debut! Insights from European Sales Entity
Lastly, we gathered perspectives from our Fujitsu General (EURO) team, the European sales entity!
ー How did you contribute to the project's development from the European standpoint?
Beyond the prevalent white interiors in European homes, wherein wall painting is a common practice, we received numerous inquiries for air conditioners that harmonize with varying interior color schemes, particularly black units.
Initially, customers sought a deep black hue, but the development team suggested a shade that seamlessly integrates with diverse interiors. Through product demonstrations and prototyping, we validated this design concept to resonate with our customers.
ー What are your expectations for the long-anticipated black model launch?
Initial customer reactions to the lighter hue surprised some, yet feedback affirmed that the color effortlessly complements various wall shades. Requests for expanding this color option to other product lines are already underway, reflecting the enthusiasm for this release.
ー In closing, what message would you like to share with your customers?
We hope our customers enjoy and benefit from our new offerings for years to come. Our commitment remains steadfast in promptly addressing our customers' evolving needs.
This article offers insights from key departments involved in crafting our distinctive black models.
FUJITSU GENERAL remains dedicated to surpassing customer expectations through innovative product development initiatives♪