Client: Ji Xing Company
Ji Xing is an established manufacturer with extensive experience in producing traditional beverage dispensing machines. Seeking to lead the market in the era of smart retail, they approached LKK Design to develop a next-generation, intelligent drink machine.

The Challenge:
Ji Xing's vision was ambitious: to integrate multiple valve functions into a single, sophisticated valve head and incorporate an electronic touchscreen. This shift from a multi-valve to a single-valve intelligent drink machine presented significant challenges in technical integration, user interface design, and new product definition. The goal was to create a machine that was not only functionally advanced but also a desirable centerpiece in any modern retail environment.

The project was guided by clear objectives:

• Advanced Functionality: Consolidate multiple valves into one intelligent valve head for customized drink creation.

• Engaging User Experience: Develop an intuitive and entertaining interface that allows users to easily personalize their beverages.

• Modern Aesthetic: Create a visually appealing product that breaks away from the industrial look of traditional machines.

• Operational Efficiency: Design for easy installation, quick refilling, and simplified maintenance for operators.

  
  

LKK's cross-disciplinary team employed a user-centric design process to deliver a holistic solution for the intelligent drink machine.

Design Research: Uncovering the "Bubble Show" Concept
Through in-depth user research, we discovered that the target audience sought more than just a drink—they wanted a memorable experience. This insight led to our core design concept: the "Bubble Show." We transformed the dispensing process into a captivating visual spectacle, making every transaction engaging and shareable.

Industrial Design: Bionic Aesthetics and Humanized Interaction

• Bionic Form: The machine's form is inspired by the polar bear, an creature that evokes feelings of cool refreshment and approachable charm. This design creates an immediate emotional connection.

• Immersive Interface: A large 10-inch screen features a youthful, playful UI with charming animations. The valve head is equipped with multi-color breathing lights, creating a dynamic light show that complements the "Bubble Show" concept.

• Ergonomic Details: The screen is set at a 25-degree tilt, providing optimal viewing and touch interaction for a comfortable user experience.

Mechanical Structure Design: Integrated Engineering for Efficiency

• Streamlined Internal Layout: We completely re-engineered the internal plumbing, consolidating all lines to the rear of the machine. This allows for faster installation and simplifies the process of changing beverage物料 (materials/syrups).

• Easy Maintenance Access: A clever flip-up panel behind the screen provides direct front-side access for maintenance, drastically reducing service time and cost.

Prototyping and Testing: Validating the Vision
High-fidelity functional prototypes were built and put through rigorous testing. This iterative process allowed us to refine the mechanics, user interface, and overall durability. The prototype's success was immediate; it became a powerful tool for market validation even before mass production.

The LKK-designed intelligent drink machine delivered exceptional value, transforming Ji Xing's market position.

• Exceptional Market Reception: The prototype generated significant buzz at major trade shows, securing numerous partnership inquiries and a substantial volume of pre-launch orders.

• Enhanced Brand Image: The product successfully repositioned Ji Xing from a traditional manufacturer to an innovator in smart beverage solutions.

• A Revolutionary User Experience: By combining advanced technology with playful design, the machine became an interactive hub, offering a unique and personalized drink creation experience that delights end-users.

This project is a testament to LKK Design's ability to fuse deep user insight with technical innovation, transforming a client's vision into a commercially successful and category-defining product.