Turnkey Product Development for iLOQ Smart Locking Systems

A Collaborative Effort From Concept to Production

Bittium with a strong background in engineering services, medical technology, and secure tactical communication, was selected as the most suitable partner for iLOQ’s ambitious project. “Finding a partner that could handle an end-to-end development process, from concept to production, was critical. Bittium stood out for their focus on security and comprehensive product development capabilities, says Timo Ainali, CTO of iLOQ.”

A collaborative project work from concept to production began with a study of potential product concepts. This phase had a multidisciplinary approach, considering various aspects such as electronics, mechanics, software, design, and usability.

Bittium’s use of its radio-, environmental-, and mechanical laboratories during the development and verification phases facilitated rapid feedback on device performance and readiness for type approval. The development of production testers ensured that production requirements were considered as early as possible.

The excellence in concept phase set a strong foundation, ensuring that the project’s following phases progressed smoothly. iLOQ provided valuable insights, leveraging Bittium’s expertise to steer the development process, strengthened by a mutual commitment to security and confidentiality which are critical elements in the domain of digital locking solutions.

Kimmo Rantapirkola, Project Manager at iLOQ, reflected on the partnership’s dynamics, “Bittium’s structured development process and comprehensive ‘one-stop-shop’ model facilitated seamless project management and ensured constant updates and clear oversight throughout the entire project. The attention to detail in the industrial design and the packaging of the final product received special praise for its elegance and functionality.”

Structured Development Process

What sets Bittium apart is their turnkey product development capability and structured development process. This methodical approach ensures precision and clarity in every phase of the project, from concept to mass production. Such precision is instrumental in streamlining development, significantly contributing to the project’s overall success. The ability to provide updated estimates for each subsequent phase allows for a dynamic and flexible development lifecycle.

Maximizing Performance While Minimizing Production Costs

This collaboration yielded the iLOQ K55S.2 Key Fob, a rechargeable digital key with innovative engineering and design. Achieving a reduction in the Bill of Materials (BOM) cost by up to 50% and enhancing battery performance by roughly 40%, the K55S.2 Key Fob stands as an example of a sustainable and high performance product. It is an integral part of the iLOQ 5 Series locking system, known for its advanced security features and convenience. The Key Fob is designed for harsh environments and climates, while remaining water-resistant and dustproof.

“The project reflects on Bittium’s excellence in world-class engineering, seamless project management and our synergistic efforts. The comprehensive service experience, from design through to mass production, underlined by Bittium’s security expertise and phased collaborative progression, ensured that the K55S.2 system not only met but surpassed expectations. The attention to detail in the concept phase was especially noteworthy, laying a robust foundation that facilitated seamless progress through all subsequent phases”, concludes Rantapirkola.

Picture rights: iLOQ