Problem:

The Zodiac group, manufacturer of electric robotic pool cleaners, wanted to recapture the leading market position with a very innovative and distinctive product.

The group had multiple objectives:
– Facilitate use, in particular cleaning the filter;
– Make suction more efficient—they wanted to be able to suck up a two-euro coin!
– Reduce the cost per unit by 50%;
– Design the robot in a year and a half.

Methodology:

We aimed for a result that made sense for the user—one which would be simple to use and effective in doing the task at hand.

Blanc Tailleur mobilized a multi-skilled team and created a dedicated space in its fab lab. The project was organized into five stages: Identifying user needs, researching technological solutions, designing the product to cost, and pre-industrialization.

Our collaborative method stimulated the team spirit with Zodiac’s R&D and marketing departments, streamlining communication and speeding up the project.

Results

Ultra-efficient cyclonic technology and a novel wheeled robot exemplify Zodiac innovation. More than 10 patents co-filed.