Rapid prototyping for a biotech air purifier
BIOM Technologies is a US-based startup founded by Will Pepi, a PhD Student at the CASE Center for Architecture Science and Ecology, with the goal of conducting research and development on the use of moss to improve indoor air and environmental quality.
The challenge
The product prototype was to help our client investigate the moss's efficiency and capacity for air purification, so we had to select applicable hardware components. To support the moss's livelihood and functioning, we combined electricity and hydraulics in one device and isolated them, which has become a considerable challenge.
Delivered value
Our embedded engineers developed and delivered a biotech air purification product prototype, including electrical and mechanical designs and firmware. We selected major hardware components to fit the product size and project budget, achieving the expected product operation.
The process
Based on the available high-level product requirements, the client presented us with his product idea, its purpose, and a brief overview of its functionality. The main goal of this project was a PoC development that allowed our client to investigate the capacity and effectiveness of moss for air purification. It was also to help determine the product viability for further commercialization.
Providing our client with an engineering team of firmware, mechanical, and electrical engineers, PM, and QA, we divided the cooperation into three primary iterations.
1. This stage included the research and development part with hardware component selection. We chose pumps, spray nozzles, and valves that were functional, sustainable, and adequately accommodated within the product.
Every week, we provided the client with interim deliverables for discussion, approval, or adjustments, like a change of LED type or ventilator diameter.
2. The next step was proceeding with hardware development, where we created a product electrical scheme, printed and collected all hardware components into a functional product prototype, and soldered chips.
3. Our team developed ESP32-based firmware that allows for expanding product features and implementing BLE/ Wi-Fi connectivity in future iterations. We collected two product prototypes - for our internal testing and the client's field testing.
Currently, the product consists of three moss layers with spray nozzles at each level, lighting, a water tank at the bottom, and color sensors. Moss helps gather the air's mechanical pollutants like dust, hair, and metals. Integrated sensors define the moss conditions and turn on water spraying if the moss color critically changes because of gathering pollutants to support its life.
Our team has already received final feedback from the client, and now we prepare for the successive development iterations to launch a commercial product.
How it works
The team at Lemberg Solutions demonstrated superb command in all aspects of industrial engineering, from concept, design, and manufacturing to embedded electronic controls, software, and user interface. They quickly understood my concept and proceeded to provide deliverables on time with excellent communication. I strongly recommend Lemberg to anyone or any company that needs prototyping and/or software development services.
