How I utilize R programming
to design interactive graphs and charts
2022 - 2023
Enterprise Solutions
Enhancing Energy Infrastructure Limits through UX Design
Overview
The U.S. electric grid is not a single network but a patchwork of competing interest operators. This division makes it challenging to construct the long-distance power lines required for nationwide wind and solar energy transportation. Therefore, the energy infrastructure needs to be able to respond to energy emergencies during periods of high demand and automate the system to adjust configurations to reduce energy consumption. As a UX designer, I played a key role in designing the software to address these challenges.
Duration: 2022 - 2023
Goal: Develop a commercial building auto-configuration system to respond to grid emergencies and demand response programs, generating revenue.
My Role: Senior UX Designer
Team: Me, Lead UX & Junior Designer, Product Managers, Engineering, AI Team, 3rd Party Companies (Voltus, etc.)
Work Process
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Familiarizing oneself with the US Grid system and acquiring fundamental domain knowledge.
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Conducting thorough research on load reduction software solutions.
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Crafting wireframes, collecting requirements, brainstorming specific features, and designing the user interface.
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Generating high-fidelity designs tailored to diverse scenarios.
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Executing implementation tasks and fostering collaboration with development teams.
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Iterating and refining designs based on stakeholder feedback and testing outcomes.
Challenges
Challenge 1: Time-sensitive events require prompt action. Users seek visual information, including demand history and future predictions.
Challenge 2: The method for triggering events is crucial, especially for human-evolved events that may require manual intervention. Additionally, users need easy access to all events and the ability to log non-system-triggered events.
Challenge 3: Configuring building setpoints is critical, akin to creating recipes tailored to different Demand Response (DR) program types. Since buildings don't react instantaneously to events, pre-configuring setpoints are essential.
Solutions
Solution 1: Implement demand charts and real-time price plots to provide users with comprehensive visualizations of demand patterns and price fluctuations.
Solution 2: Implement a comprehensive event management system that allows users to switch seamlessly between auto and manual modes. Ensure clear visibility of all events and provide logging functionality for tracking system and user-triggered events.
Solution 3: Introduce a Define Strategy Wizard to guide users through the configuration process, offering tailored options based on DR program criteria. Conduct concept testing to evaluate usability and effectiveness.
Design Process
Our team embarked on the journey of developing a brand new product from scratch, leveraging our collective expertise and innovative ideas. We approached the project with enthusiasm and dedication, aiming to create a solution that would revolutionize the industry and exceed user expectations.
Low Fidelity Design
Design wireframes and working mockups to evaluate.
Simulate Chart with Actual Data
Generate charts using actual data in R programming and Excel to rapidly assess and select the most suitable visualization type.
Concept Testing
Evaluate the mockups with users and get feedback to iterate the design.
High Fidelity Design
Follow design system to create high fidelity design
Detailed Solutions
1. Visualizing Real-Time Demand and Price
During a grid emergency, the system connects with the utility provider and displays the event on the chart, indicating its expected duration.
The color-coded chart distinguishes various types of grid emergencies, referred to as diverse program types by the system.
The chart presents data differently based on the date ranges shown on the x-axis. However, due to the absence of an actual data set, the UX team faced challenges in designing granular design elements that correspond to the various date ranges.
The UX team downloaded the energy manager demand (kW) data, and quickly created an interactive mockup by R to explore various chart designs based on diverse data ranges displayed on the x-axis. Then, copy the line chart as SVG to the design tool to create graphic mockups.
Excel Simulation
R Programming Simulation
2. Manage Events: Mode Switching and Tracking
The manage event table data could be categorized into 2 types of data: system initiated, and user initiated mode. The table includes action buttons corresponding to each data type, enabling users to respond promptly to programs. It serves not only as a viewer but also as a crucial tool to prompt timely user actions. This straightforward table design involves multiple steps to explore various user scenarios. To ensure accuracy and effective communication with the development team, we created logic diagrams to validate the steps. Additionally, for the GUI, we experimented with several approaches to visually represent the different statuses of the plans.
3. DR Program-Responsive Building Configuration
The Define Strategy page comprises three main sections.
First, users define the program and select the days to implement the strategy.
Second, the strategy involves reducing electricity load through specific equipment configurations, including various setpoints and on/off status.
Third, the strategy involves shifting energy resources by utilizing a generator or discharging energy storage rather than relying on the grid.
The building has numerous configuration points, each with different types of equipment, including multiple floors and zones. As a result, there will be extensive lists of data to manage.
The data can be categorized into four types, and each type will be displayed as a separate tab, organized as steps. The UX team conducted concept testing with both internal and external users to gather feedback and insights.
Outcomes & Insights
Designing from Scratch
The project involved designing from scratch, making it both challenging and exciting. I worked with a lead UX designer and UX designer. This process gave us valuable insights into the US Grid System and its limitations. It became apparent that the US grid system is not a single network, highlighting the importance of optimizing energy consumption during grid emergencies. However, only part of the project has been shipped; it's on hold for business reasons. It will be an advanced licensed product and service.
The Critical Role of UX in Addressing Energy Infrastructure Limitations
UX plays a critical role in addressing this energy infrastructure limitation by providing tools to monitor grid emergency alerts or predictions through hourly charts. Additionally, the system that the UX team designed aimed to empower building owners to configure energy optimizations beyond simply turning off devices indiscriminately.
Fueling Interest in Energy Management System
The project enlightened me about the energy market, revealing its tradable nature akin to other commodities. This discovery ignited a profound interest in energy management, utility providers, and the intricacies of the energy market, driving me to delve deeper into understanding its complexities and potential opportunities.