Cubik Innovation, based in Bristol, United Kingdom (UK), helps companies make their electronic product concepts a reality. Managing director Paul Mullen and his team assist their customers in bringing innovative products to market by providing full support from specification and design, to prototype and software, and finally test and production.

Specialising in design and development, members of the Cubik Innovation team are problem solvers and love an interesting challenge. This is perfectly demonstrated by a recent project they worked on, called BatNav.

Da-na-na-na BatNav!

A sculptor approached Cubik Innovation to assist with a commission to create an installation focusing on the different species of bats in a local cave system. The aim of the exhibit was to educate visitors about bats’ ability to navigate their environment using their biological sonar system called echolocation.

To replicate the echolocation system, Cubik Innovation designed a connected chain of sensors that were placed on either side of one of the cave passages, near where the bats roost. Someone approaching triggers the sensors to sound a repetitive beep that speeds up the closer the person gets. This enabled the visitor to close their eyes and zigzag through the tunnel without bumping into the walls.

The project had to overcome several design challenges, including operating in a harsh environment with poor connectivity while ensuring visitor safety. Thanks to Cubik Innovation’s expertise, however, the exhibition was a huge success and ended up being both educational and fun! Check out some pictures here.

 

Cubik also helps companies to develop internet of things (IoT) products. Working with a customer, they supported the creation of a smart thermostat solution aimed at reducing energy bills in public housing. The device learns the household routine, detects when the house is not occupied, and turns the heating on or off accordingly. The device gathers valuable data remotely and reduces the requirement for complex interaction or configuration from the user.  For this project, Cubik developed the software drivers allowing the operating system to communicate with the hardware. They also worked on the printed circuit board (PCB) design, prototype manufacturing, and firmware development. The result of this project was a much smarter device than originally planned, saving energy and making it easier for housing association tenants to manage their heating costs.

The importance of innovation

By helping companies realise their innovations day-in and day-out, Paul and his team understand the struggles that small businesses go through when getting their products to market. Cubik Innovation joined ACT | The App Association to meet likeminded businesses and to engage with policy issues around innovation and IoT ranging from privacy and security to interoperability and standards.

To find out more about Cubik Innovation (and BatNav). Visit their website https://www.cubik-innovation.co.uk