Experience meets innovation, uniquely
We explore how an interactive vending machine transformed outdoor cinema experiences, combining playful digital interactions with practical solutions for weather challenges.
Reading time, about 4:23 min.
Start: April 2016
Timeline: 3 months
Agency: Eyecatcher AG — Zurich
Client: Orange SA (Salt) is a national telecommunications provider with one of the most powerful networks.
Services: Tech. Research, UX-Research, Ideation, Information-Architecture, Interaction-Design, Prototyping, UI Design, Visual Design, Animation
Platform: Interactive Installation (Selectra Automat-Adrino-iPad-SMS-API)
The Challenge
How might we enhance the open-air cinema experience through smart vending?
A warm summer evening. Outdoor cinema. Popcorn in one hand, beer in the other — and suddenly: rain. Or the sun straight in your eyes. Or just the urge for something unexpected.
Our challenge was to create an interactive vending solution that turned these little moments into something delightful — while collecting leads for Salt. The machine needed to cover everything: ponchos, sunglasses, snacks. With a mobile payment system that worked fast, simple, and stress-free.
The Result
Interactive vending machine engages many cinema visitors
We built more than just a vending machine — we created a playful moment in the middle of the cinema crowd. A hybrid system: part iPad shop, part game machine. Visitors could buy their items directly or spin the digital wheel to try their luck.
The seamless phone bill integration made payment frictionless. And the experience? Light, fun, surprising — just like a good summer movie.
My Role
Product Designer
Working shoulder-to-shoulder with developers, I led the design of the digital interface and its physical counterpart. From first ideas and low-fi sketches to live user testing on-site.
I ensured the iPad UI, Arduino-controlled hardware, and physical environment came together in one consistent and intuitive user flow. It was hands-on, messy at times, but enriching.
In Short, the Design Process
From weather woes to winning moments
- Started with on-site visitor research to identify key needs and pain points at outdoor cinema events
- Developed an integrated IoT solution combining Arduino hardware controls with an intuitive iPad interface
- Created and tested engaging game mechanics that transformed simple vending into an interactive experience
Interaction and User Interface Design
Adapt the vending trays to the iPad
RIVE Proto
Tray behavior Prototy
Key Learning
Small screen, big impact, tight timeline
- Limited screen space calls for crystal-clear product visuals and ultra-intuitive flows
- IoT requires constant developer collaboration and flexible problem-solving
- Deadlines can be creative fuel — if you let them
Take Away
Future opportunities for enhanced engagement
- Implement analytics to track user interaction patterns and optimize game mechanics
- Explore expanded payment options while maintaining simplicity
- Consider weather-triggered promotions to serve visitor needs better
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