Clipsal by Schneider Electric’s new Saturn OneTouch range of switches and dimmers has been recognised as a finalist in the 2012 Australian International Design Awards, Housing and Building category. The finalists were announced on 25 May in Sydney.

The Saturn OneTouch premium range of switches and dimmers was designed and developed locally at the company’s Gepps Cross site by Schneider Electric R&D manager Ivanka Chamings and engineering team. The design is based upon new digital dimming technology that eliminates the need for mechanical switches. It includes an advanced touch sensitive operation, a cool-blue halo LED indicator and an audible on/off tone. Each switch features a glass look finish with beveled edges.

Saturn OneTouch was more than two years in the making. Research started in 2010, development followed in 2011 before the product was launched in March, 2012. A local team of design and test engineers, industrialisation and project management were behind the project, producing an industry first.

“No other manufacturer in the electrical industry has one of these and we have two patents on the design as well has design registration on the mechanism and the plates,” says Ivanka.

“Our engineering team is very good at adapting and combining new technology, overcoming technical challenges and anticipating market needs.”

Clipsal by Schneider Electric executive general manager Damien Cummins describes Saturn OneTouch as a “very unique product.”

“It started with an idea and our design team has produced something exceptional and their talent has been recognised with this nomination. We now hope that we can take out the top prize.”

Program Director, Stephanie Pemberton says that the judging committee described this year’s competition as “among the toughest yet.”

Saturn OneTouch is now up against five other nominated products in the housing and building category including, a ducted gas heater, chlorinator and intelligent door lock.

As a finalist, Clipsal Saturn OneTouch will be recognised as the recipient of a Good Design, Design Award Best in Category Design Award Sustainability or the premier prize, Design Award of the Year at the Awards Ceremony to be held on Friday, 20 July at the City Recital Hall in Sydney.