The LG DUAL Vane Cassette is offering diverse airflow, energy efficiency, air purification and smart functionality all in one compact cassette unit. The innovations achieved to bring this product to the market are unprecedented in the industry today. But how was LG able to develop this unique offering of design and performance and provide a truly differentiated product? We have the opportunity to talk with two LG engineers who were instrumental in the development of the DUAL Vane Cassette. Let’s hear their stories and learn what went into this innovative indoor unit.
Q
How did you come up with 6 airflow modes?
A
“We originally started with 15 different airflow modes. However, we settled on 6 airflow modes after doing segmentation analysis and determining the best airflow options to meet customers’ needs.”
The DUAL Vane allows cool air to reach the floor even from 5 meter high ceilings
Q
What was the most satisfactory element of developing the DUAL Vane Cassette?
A
“There are 2 extremes that customers want most from their air conditioner. They either want the airflow to blow on them directly or indirectly. Typically in an office setting, we install air deflectors to keep the air from blowing directly at people’s heads, but then if you want more direct airflow, you have to climb up and remove the air deflectors. Condensation can also form on air deflectors when they are installed. On the other hand, in places like churches and assembly halls with ceilings as high as 5 meters, the airflow never reaches all the way to the floor. Being able to develop this DUAL Vane technology that could narrow the vent opening for stronger airflow to directly reach the floor in these places with high ceilings was satisfactory.”
Q
“The DUAL Vane cassette is equipped with a new fan. Didn’t deeper wings increase the overall size of the product?”
A
“The DUAL Vane Cassette is the first air conditioner to implement a one-piece injection-molded 3D fan. The fan comes out of the injection mold in one solid piece. So, It is very smooth and has less resistance than other 3D fans. Our new 3D fan is designed to be more efficient and emit less noise without increasing the overall size of the product.”
The injection-molded 3D fan is more powerful and more efficient
Q
What has been the feedback from technicians about the DUAL Vane Cassette?
A
“Technicians appreciate not having to remove the entire panel to replace the vanes like before. They can simply remove 2 screws to remove and replace the vane module, which makes repair service much more convenient.”
Q
Who would you recommend the DUAL Vane cassette to the most?
A
Controlling direct and indirect airflow freely with just a single button is the biggest advantage of the product. I recommend this air conditioner to people who want easy control of airflow. Our current product was developed for commercial use, but people want this in their homes too. When you’re in the living room or sleeping in the bedroom, air blowing directly on you can be a problem. So, we plan to apply the DUAL Vane technology for residential products as well. “
Q
In terms of design, what has changed compared to the previous four-way cassettes?
A
“Customers in spaces with low ceilings or who prefer indirect airflow often install a type of windscreen known as an air deflector. But when air deflectors are installed, air conditioners can look messy no matter how stylish the design of the air conditioner is. But the DUAL Vane has Crystal Vane implemented inside to control direct and indirect airflow for all-around more natural airflow. “
The DUAL Vane feature allows for more precise airflow control and more comfort
Q
Compared to regular home appliances, what can be different when you design a cassette?
A
“Making a large product that’s installed in the ceiling look refined isn’t easy. So, the thickness of the product is very important. Designing the edge part of the product that meets the ceiling slim makes the product look slim and we focused a lot on this. “
Diverse airflow patters provide customers with the comfort and performance they deserve
Q
What differentiates DUAL Vane’s design from competitors’?
A
“To say it simply, we think the design reflects diverse customer needs while maintaining a sleek exterior. Our product has much smoother lines compared to the somewhat mechanical exterior of competitors’ products. The smooth lines along with the sleek design without the need for air deflectors is what really sets our product apart.”
Q
How do you expect the trend of cassette design to change in the future?
A
“Cassette air conditioners are installed in the ceiling. So, the core value of a cassette is that it naturally fits in with any type of interior design. Whether it’s the never before seen aesthetical proportions or the super slim design that fits perfectly into the ceiling, we think these aspects are going to become trends in the industry.”
