Wireless Smoke Detector

Get In Touch

Background

Eaton Cooper Security partnered with Optima to provide design and engineering resources for a new series of wireless smoke detectors. The goal was to create a versatile range of units that shared a common chassis, electronic components, and design elements, offering cost-effective solutions both internally and for external clients. A variety of product styles were proposed, with a strong emphasis on simplicity, ease of use, and high-quality surface finishes. The initial design concepts were then developed into fully functional engineering prototypes for comprehensive visual and functional evaluation, ensuring performance met expectations.

Approach

Given the strict legislation governing the products, several reliable mechanisms had to be developed, such as button actuation, safety paddles and springs, LED light distribution, and ceiling fitting plates. One of the key challenges in the process was designing visually distinct products while maintaining the core PCB components in the same location. This was essential to ensure that product variations remained cost-effective while adhering to the required standards. Balancing the need for differentiation with cost efficiency and compliance would have been a complex but important aspect of the design and engineering work.

Delivery

A variety of machined and rapid prototype assemblies were created for extensive performance assessment, offering the ideal test bed to refine fit and function. These prototypes allowed for precise adjustments to critical elements, such as the internal smoke chamber geometry, light pipes, and button operation. Through these iterative tests, the team was able to ensure that all aspects of the design were optimized for performance, reliability, and user experience. The prototypes provided invaluable confidence that the final production components would not only meet but exceed the stringent certifications required by the safety market, ensuring the product’s compliance and safety standards.

The resulting units achieved the smallest possible footprint, despite the complexity of the component requirements, and showcased an understated aesthetic that aligned perfectly with the client’s design ethos. The detectors were seamlessly integrated with an Alarm Base Station, further enhancing the system’s effectiveness and connectivity in real-world applications.