OUR PROJECTS
Switchee
Switchee Ltd is a Bristol & London based company that has developed a smart thermostat solution that is aimed at social housing to reduce energy bills.
The intelligent device learns the routine of the household, knowing when the house isn’t occupied, and turns on or off the heating accordingly. The device does not require complex interaction or configuration for the user and allows valuable data to be gathered remotely.
Cubik Innovation were originally approached in October 2014 to assist with the development of software drivers for the smart thermostat.
This quickly evolved into a larger scheme of work, incorporating PCB design and prototype manufacture alongside firmware development.
To make Switchee a really smart thermostat, the design utilises the following technologies:
- WiFi – Connection to central cloud based server
- GSM / GPRS – Connection to central cloud based server when WiFi is not available
- TCP/IP Networking
- ZWave mesh Networking
- User interactive touch screen
From our initial involvement with driver generation Cubik were subsequently engaged to help with the following aspects:
- Update and improvement of the electronic design and layout of the existing PCB using Altium Designer
- Development of the embedded application
- Interfacing to the cloud server software developers
- Design for CE approval
- EMC analysis and improvement
- Prototype batches of complete units including mechanical assembly
- EMC and safety testing through our approved, external supplier
- Assistance with CE Marking
- Batch production of the product at 300 Off
The Internet of Things and smart devices continue to transform our homes, workplace and daily lives. As interest and development around data transfer, cloud based applications and clever hardware increase, the market place for such products advances quickly.
During the product development cycle, the Switchee unit evolved in its technical complexity and functionality owing to market demand. Cubik Innovation continually seeks to develop the best possible products for its customers by adopting flexible approaches, incorporating new requirements where possible to add value to the finished product.
Cubik Innovation is proud to be part of such a fantastic device and looks forward to being able to work on innovative future devices as the IOT continues to grow further.
