UNICOMM
INDUSTRY: APPLIANCES
COUNTRY: POLAND
The heart of UNICOMM is a control panel which is also a video intercom. Cable infrastructure allows reliable operation of devices dedicated to residents: thermostats, motion sensors, light switches, sockets, roller shutters, intelligent locks, etc. UNICOMM is implemented during the construction phase in consultation with the developer or main contractor.
In addition to the control panel, the designed devices include a head, which allows to control room temperature, a sensor with motion detection function and a wallswitch, which allows to automate all home appliances.
Our client's goal was to create a modern smart home system for multifamily buildings that addresses the current and real needs of its users. While every apartment in a multifamily building typically has an intercom, it is usually limited to a few functions: controlling opening the door and accepting calls. Our client proposed an innovative solution using the intercom as a central control panel, developing a smart home concept specifically for apartment buildings. The system was designed from scratch, starting with the building's cabling infrastructure. This architecture allows for future integration with various building elements, such as elevators, external meters, and air quality sensors. The foundation of the system is the Unicomm intercom, now referred to as the main control panel. It manages smart home elements such as thermostatic heads, lighting, and electrical outlets. Complementing the configuration are motion sensors that, in combination with the central panel, function as an alarm system.
We began this phase by conducting an in-depth research of intercoms available on the market, their functionalities, and their shortcomings. We also analyzed smart home systems, their features and examined their user experience. After gathering information about the market, we considered what functionalities the main element of the system should have to be as useful as possible.
At this stage, we prepared preliminary visualizations of selected system elements in five different variants. This phase was focused on exploring shapes and forms. For example: we considered whether the panel should have buttons, and if so, how many, or if it should be touch-only and why. As a result, we decided on a touch screen with a single knob integrated with a button, which serves multiple functions: it provides navigation through the menu on the control panel, confirms menu option selections, answers the intercom, and opens the door.
After selecting the most promising set of concepts, we began refining them. We searched for the ideal display for the central panel, as it had a direct impact on the shape of the design. Additionally, we started the preliminary search for components to finalize the forms and conclude the design phase for other system elements. These components included not only displays but also motors for adjusting the thermostatic head, encoders, and other major components that could significantly influence the final product design
The mechanical design phase in this case was exceptionally complex due to the number of system elements. We had to design the intercom, a radiator head, a PIR motion sensor, and a universal electric switch. During this stage, each element was prototyped and tested not only for aesthetics and ergonomics but also for compatibility with the concurrently developed electronics and the chosen production technology.
for manufacturing
After meticulously designing all system elements, we initiated the Design for Manufacturing phase. At this stage, we selected a subcontractor for further collaboration and adjusted the mechanical design to meet the requirements of their machinery and the chosen production technology, which in this case was plastic injection molding. We also selected plastics with properties that ensure the final products' high quality and durability over the years.
In collaboration with the subcontractors, we analyzed individual elements of the entire system during the test injection molding process. We examined the housing of components and assessed how they fit together. We evaluated the quality and structure of the manufactured surfaces from multiple angles, as well as the final color of the parts. We conducted numerous material tests and focused on optimizing the production time for each component.
Unicomm combines refined system architecture with good democratic design. We believe that the project will stand out not only due to its aesthetics but also thanks to a new approach to smart home solutions and their implementation in multifamily housing.
Our client's goal was to create a modern smart home system for multifamily buildings that addresses the current and real needs of its users. While every apartment in a multifamily building typically has an intercom, it is usually limited to a few functions: controlling opening the door and accepting calls. Our client proposed an innovative solution using the intercom as a central control panel, developing a smart home concept specifically for apartment buildings. The system was designed from scratch, starting with the building's cabling infrastructure. This architecture allows for future integration with various building elements, such as elevators, external meters, and air quality sensors. The foundation of the system is the Unicomm intercom, now referred to as the main control panel. It manages smart home elements such as thermostatic heads, lighting, and electrical outlets. Complementing the configuration are motion sensors that, in combination with the central panel, function as an alarm system.
As with most projects, we had to create the system architecture at this stage. Since detailing the entire architecture could be time-consuming, let's focus on the main point: each apartment has its own dedicated control panel for all smart devices connected to the Unicomm infrastructure. The panel also communicates with external devices and other panels within the community.
We then selected key technologies to support communication between system elements, deciding early on that the system would be entirely based on wired infrastructure. We recommended the BACnet protocol, one of the best communication standards for this purpose.
The proposed architecture includes the parallel development of four core system components:
- Control panel
- Wall switch (230V switch used in electrical outlets and light switches)
- Thermostatic head (one per radiator)
- PIR sensor with temperature and humidity sensor
To operate these devices, we also planned the development of a supporting device, the router, and a consistent management system for the infrastructure.
The construction of complex systems starts with a general architecture, which is then refined by dividing it into individual devices. Each device in the system has a common communication component and a dedicated part that corresponds to its function within the system. We identified a preliminary list of components: microcontrollers, temperature sensors, motion sensors, displays, etc. Next, we conducted an initial verification to check if the selected display could be operated by the preferred microcontroller, if the chosen relays could work in continuous mode, and if ready-made components such as SOM (system on module) were available to handle a high-resolution screen, and so on. After the initial verification, we began designing development boards for each system element, starting with the panel, followed by the wall switch, PIR sensor, and thermostat.
At this stage, our task was to create a working prototype based on the client's basic requirements. We tested functionalities and examined the communication capabilities of the devices, exploring the potential direction for the final selection of components for each element of the Unicomm system. By the end of this phase, we created a proof of concept: we had tested communication between system elements and verified their functionalities.
All devices, such as the Unicomm panel, wall switch, PIR sensor, and thermostatic head, required dedicated software to manage their operations. This resulted in four separate, extensive sub-projects. The next and most important task was developing the firmware and accompanying software to manage the entire range of devices through communication hubs, which we called routers (a familiar term associated with directing traffic in network devices). Similarly, Unicomm routers manage communication between system devices while also providing a channel for communicating with external appliances. Developing embedded software on this scale is a multi-year endeavor that can be continuously improved over the years as the project remains on the market.
At this stage, we evaluated whether the components we intended to use were the best available on the market and would remain so for the coming years. We had to ensure that everything, including the hardware elements, was ready for mass production. Additionally, we consulted with subcontractors about the technologies we planned to use for producing various system components. Each element of the Unicomm system underwent pre-certification testing in specialized laboratories. Based on the findings from these tests, necessary adjustments were made to the designs, and the required documentation was completed.
We prepared for the comprehensive implementation of the product. We developed a production control scheme and training programs for electricians who would be installing Unicomm systems in residential buildings. We also prepared for remote monitoring of the system's functionality, both in individual apartments and throughout entire buildings.
Unicomm combines refined system architecture with good democratic design. We believe that the project will stand out not only due to its aesthetics but also thanks to a new approach to smart home solutions and their implementation in multifamily housing.
Every product design is the result of a team effort. It never boils down to one person, but every project has its lead designer or lead contributors. If you want to know more about our current team, visit our team page.
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