Case Study · Technology Scouting

What air sensors can add to home comfort appliances.

A leading appliances manufacturer saw new sensor technologies as a route to new features and more profitable business models. We reviewed the sensors, suppliers and data platforms and outlined the next steps for its product plans.

The Client

The client is a leading appliances manufacturer working on new product development, including air conditioners, air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers. It engaged Prescouter through a Research Support Service project to review the sensors and suppliers that could bring new features and more profitable business models through greater product digitization.

The Challenge

Sense the air.
Build the business around it.

Prescouter was asked to study thermopile sensors and other technologies for measuring indoor air quality and thermal comfort, and the business models built on them.

  • Air quality

    Environmental sensors

    Sensors that detect VOCs, SOx, NOx, and CO2 in indoor air.

  • Comfort

    Temperature and humidity

    Temperature and humidity sensors, and the new business models built on them.

  • Data

    Analytics platforms

    Data platforms and the business models that use these sensor types.

Our Approach

From commercial sensors to new business models.

Product scan
Sensorscommercially available

Map the hardware

We identified commercially available sensors and analytics platforms for indoor air quality and thermal comfort.

Closer investigation
Modelsbusiness best practices

Study what works

A closer look at these technologies drew out best practices for building new business models around them.

Validation
Checkedby research and an expert

Check the findings

The results were validated through primary and secondary research and input from a subject matter expert.

The Outcome

A clear set of next steps for new products.

Prescouter built a detailed review of existing products and suppliers and outlined next steps for the client’s product development. It also flagged that two key competitors could gain an edge unless the client added AI and machine learning features to its range.

  • Suppliers

    Products and suppliers mapped

    Existing sensors, platforms, and suppliers for the client’s product range.

  • Roadmap

    Next steps for development

    Clear actions for the client’s product development efforts.

  • Competition

    Where AI and ML matter

    Two key competitors could gain an edge unless new AI and ML features are added.

A sensor adds a feature. The data behind it, used well, can add a business model, and timing against competitors matters.

Let’s Talk

What could sensors add to your products?

Build your product plans on a clear view of sensors, suppliers, and business models. Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you get there.

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