We are pleased to introduce Cubik Electronic Product Support (EPS). This strategic expansion offers expert support in compliance testing, certification, and electronic product development.
We are pleased to introduce Cubik Electronic Product Support (EPS). This strategic expansion offers expert support in compliance testing, certification, and electronic product development.
Discover key factors to consider when choosing an electronics manufacturing partner. Learn how Cubik Innovation’s expertise, quality, and flexibility can help bring your product to life on time and within budget.
We catch up with our Apprentice Production Engineer, Jake, to talk about his journey, the challenges he's faced and what he's learned along the way.
Kiwa's Hot Swage Joint Analyser, a critical tool used to measure corrosion and ensure the structural safety of streetlight columns, relied on outdated parts and components that were no longer available.
EarSwitch is a wearable device for people with severe neurological conditions like MND. It detects ear movements, enabling users to control devices and communicate despite limited motor skills.
The Virt is a cutting-edge two-way camera IoT device that delivers a new era of connectivity for darts players and fans alike.
We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded the Cyber Essentials Plus certification for a sixth year, demonstrating our commitment to cyber security.
Speed to market is critical to the success of a product. We look at how you can develop a product with market readiness in mind to avoid delays and loss of a competitive edge.
Cubik Innovation is delighted to announce that Sam Beard has been appointed as Operations Director.
Kiwa are leaders in testing, inspection, certification and data services to a global customer base across a variety of market segments, including construction, utilities and public safety. Their hot swage joint analyser is used to measure the level of corrosion at the swage joint area of a streetlight column to determine its structural safety.
Kiwa approached Cubik for help with an existing product that was at risk of becoming unmanufacturable. Originally designed in the 1990’s, their hot swage joint analyser called for parts and components that had become obsolete since its inception.
Their objectives were to update the design to create a modern, handheld version and manufacture five new units, complete with full data pack including electronic design files and a software source file.
It was vital that the new design measured and calculated results in the same way as the existing device so that historic testing data could be inherited by the new instrument, without having to define new safety classifications.
The process began with reverse engineering the circuit and sourcing alternative components for the obsolete ones. We ran tests to understand how the device measured, inferring the method of operation and calculating results to fit those produced by the existing device. We then built a prototype breadboard version that allowed us to recreate the device’s operation and generate measurable results.
Using the output from our investigations, we created a custom PCB design and developed software to manage the system and record and present results via a digital display. Finally, we benchmarked the results against the existing device to ensure the results were consistent.
The hot swage joint analyser is one of the main tools used by Kiwa’s technicians to annually inspect and assess the structural integrity of over 130,000 lighting columns across the UK and Ireland, helping to ensure the safety of the public. As well as offering amore modern and functional aesthetic, the new design eliminates the immediate risk of obsolescence and creates a platform for further units to be built to support the scaling of the business.
Dr. Nick Gompertz created EarSwitch a wearable device that has the capability to change the lives of people with severe neurological conditions such as Motor Neuron Disease (MND). This in-ear innovation detects motion from one of the smallest muscles in the body, the tensor tympani, giving users the power to communicate and control their environment.
The Earswitch system comprises of an in-ear sensor and a processing unit that translates the information collected by the sensor and generates Bluetooth or USB data that is sent to the user's device. Nick and his team needed a multi-disciplinary team to help them develop their revolutionary device into a commercially viable product that satisfies strict medical regulations.
Throughout the project we worked collaboratively with several stakeholders including our colleagues in The Product Partnership. This enabled us to support Nick and the team from initial concept through to prototyping and into low volume manufacture for field trials.
For our part, we designed and developed a system architecture for the in-ear module and interface whilst keeping manufacturability in mind. The design was technically challenging and required miniaturisation of the in-ear module to ensure it fit the compact device, without compromising on quality and precision.
Once the device was ready, we assisted with regulatory approval including Electromagnetic Capability (EMC) and Medical Device Safety EN 60601-1.
EarSwitch is ground-breaking medical technology that will change the lives of people suffering with neurological impairments. It offers a transformational opportunity for people with the most severe communication restrictions to have a voice, take control of their environment and choose how to live their lives.
EarSwitch has been recognised innovative technology, winning numerous awards and securing significant investment.
Target Darts is a leader in darts equipment and sponsors some of the biggest names in the game including Luke Littler and Rob Cross. Their latest product creates a new category of connected IoT devices bringing the skill and excitement of the game to homes at the touch of a button.
The Virt Camera is a two-way camera system that allows users to play competitive darts against a global online community. It's front facing camera lets you opponent watch your throw, while the dartboard facing camera allows them to see your dart land in real time, high-definition video.
Target Darts approached Cubik with a prototype of their new product and asked us to conduct a design review that focussed on design for manufacture and supply. The Virt needed to stream two live video feeds to a remote server and an app that would configure and score the game. The biggest challenge was fitting the amount of tech needed into a sleek, compact design whilst maintaining a high-quality video feed.
As part of the design review, we produced a low volume build of the existing prototype to test and analyse. Using the output, we made design recommendations to improve performance and streamline the manufacturability of the product.
Getting the camera tech right was a big piece of the puzzle. Our team carried out extensive research and testing to select the best camera component. We then designed and built a bespoke PCB that enabled the camera to interact with off the shelf components to bring the whole system together.
With a refreshed design that employed design for manufacture principles, we went on to successfully support Target Darts through the regulatory certification process and achieved CE, UKCA and FCC approval.
The result, a market ready product that is now available to purchase: https://bit.ly/40fuW5k
The IZLID is a compact, lightweight infrared laser device used by the military as a command pointer for target marking and communicating with aircraft. It is small enough to fit into the user’s pocket, or attach to their belt for quick access, offering swift guidance to ground personnel over a range of 39km.
Close Air Solutions (CAS) asked Cubik to design a simulator that replicated the look and feel of the IZLID’s aesthetics, ergonomics and user functions, without the infrared beam. The IZLID simulator needed to connect to CAS simulation system via a single USB lead and return data back to the simulation system.
The IZLID simulator is used in classroom based military training to help soldiers gain knowledge and experience of how it would behave in a real-world application. Simulation is a critical part of military training allowing soldiers to experience realistic scenarios in a virtual world, improving their decision making and readiness for combat situations.
The Reskube offers a simple solution providing access to both continuous power and uninterruptible internet connectivity for itself and any connected devices during a power outage. It’s sleek and portable design means that it can be used in a wide range of settings from powering a home office to life saving medical equipment. This intelligent device has the capability to detect and resolve issues before they become a problem.
With our friends at Bang Creations delivering the mechanical design, we were brought on board to design and build the system architecture and support the product through regulatory certification. We worked closely with Bang to ensure the electronic system fit the custom enclosure without compromising on quality and performance.
Designed with critical remote workers in mind the Reskube gives users the confidence to work from any location without fear of disruption. Outside of the home, Reskube maintains continuous operations during outages for small sites such as retail stores, construction sites, doctor's surgeries, and primary schools, ensuring that critical systems and equipment remain operational. Additionally, it offers the added benefit of remote monitoring and management. In global regions where power outages are commonplace the Reskube offers a source of reliability and resilience in an environment with unpredictable connectivity.
Bristol & London based company, Switchee Ltd developed a smart thermostat solution aimed at reducing energy bills in social housing. The intelligent device learns the routine of the household, detects when the house is not occupied and turns the heating on or off accordingly. The device allows valuable data to be gathered remotely reducing the requirement for complex interaction or configuration from the user.
Switchee approached Cubik for help with the development of the software drivers which allow the operating system to communicate with the hardware. This quickly evolved into a larger scheme of work that incorporated the printed circuit board (PCB) design, prototype manufacture and firmware development.
Switchee is the first internet-connect device in social housing. It delivers real-time data that gives housing providers the insights and tools they need to proactively support residents and manage homes.
With a Switchee device installed, energy efficiency can be optimised on a case-by-case basis reducing energy waste, lowering heating bills and cutting carbon emissions.
Growing as a Start-Up is all about connections, making connections with funding bodies, project partners, academia, and neighbouring companies. From our conception, we have always been devoted to building this vital network. Perhaps the most valuable of these relationships is with Microelectronics iNet.
Microelectronics iNet is an ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) project, conceived in 2010, planned to run into 2015, with a finish scheduled next month. They provide advice and resources to Microelectronics SMEs across the South West helping to take design concepts and ideas all the way to tangible products and services, a mission shared by Cubik.
Through research and understanding Microelectronics iNet have been able to create programmes of practical and targeted support working to boost SMEs to progress innovation. The body are supported and lead by The University of the West of England (UWE), contributing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to an already strong team of experts. The project in its entirety operates to provide support to existing SMEs and inventors but is part of wider picture, the iNet programme, a large funding resource forming a network of iNet each geared towards servicing a specialist industry field in the South West whether it be aerospace or green technology.
Forging a relationship with this invaluable resource has paid all parties involved an array of worth while dividends, for Microelectronics iNet they have successfully cultured an environment for SMEs to build supply chain clusters, where companies can sustain each other as well as themselves. In our case, we have had the opportunity to connect with a bank of customers and companies from across the industry sector and background, extending our reach to unchartered heights. For our customers, they have seen grassroots ideas transform into targeted well thought out concepts and often prototypes and technology demonstration devices developed.
In a recent report of the programme’s successes, Belen Prieto, Cubik’s key contact commented:
“There has been a successful history of collaboration between Cubik Innovation and the Microelectronics iNet since 2012. It’s a deep and close partnership which has delivered real outcomes for both Cubik and the Microelectronics iNet. This strategic partnership has also provided SMEs with access to high quality prototypes in a shorter period of time, facilitating them to keep on innovating and bringing new products to market, which is helping to feed the virtuous circle for growth in the South West of England”.
For Cubik our successes have been achieved most pertinently through the Microelectronics iNet business assist service, a small but important fund of £1,000 awarded to SMEs looking to gain information and guidance on product and business development.
In this capacity Cubik were commissioned to facilitate product and concept investigation for customers with electronic products, usually consisting of several days of focused research into prototyping and design. During our three years in business, we have completed approximately 25 business assists for many innovative small companies with 60% of these investigations forming the vital bedrock for future development. Our customers choose Cubik as their product development partner or as a vehicle for isolated programmes of work such as design reviews, prototype productions, software iterations, and batch manufactures.
Most recently Cubik engaged with Start-Up Meta Films Ltd headed up by experienced cameraman and adventurer Nick Guy. Nick was granted funding through the programme for Cubik to carry out a full design review of a camera trap system which houses a DSLR specifically to film wildlife in remote locations and was pleased with the results:
“The investigation carried out by Cubik was to pin down a problem with an existing design. This was achieved and has allowed remedial work to be undertaken to correct the fault on several units already in service. Prior to the investigation the units could not be safely deployed. The work carried out by Cubik also highlighted several other points as well as touching on possible improvements that could be implemented in a future development of the design. It is likely that Cubik will be asked to conduct a further full design review and hopefully carry out full re-design of the product at some stage soon”.
Alongside Meta films, we have also recently worked with Wildwood Ecology delivering smart and innovative ecological solutions to companies across the South-West on a very interesting project surrounding the conservation of Bats. Richard Crompton, Wildwood’s director had this to say about his experience with Cubik Innovation and Microelectronics iNet.
“We found our dealings with Cubik to be enjoyable, from a first friendly meeting with MD Paul, to being introduced to the team and seeing the facilities. A very positive experience that made us feel Cubik was a company we wanted to do business with. After some fact finding Cubik put us in touch with the Microelectronics iNet scheme which funded the initial feasibility stage. We have costed proposals for a range of options and must now do some work to identify the funds to make the project a reality”.
The programme has also offered a more extensive layer of support, making larger sums of funding available to give projects a real boost.
In 2013, Cubik won the highest level of this support to fund a brand new automated optical inspection unit (AOI machine) which has and continues to maintain an excellent quality standard to the prototypes shipped from our labs. The majority of our PCBAs are manufactured using surface mount technology, decreasing component size whilst increasing density, making the need for accurate and efficient inspection avital measure. Adding this machine to our growing production line in the earliest days of our business means we can take on an increased number of production and prototyping jobs. It also helped us win a contract with a large, local utilities firm for a programme of work that could change the landscape of our growth.
With the programme ending in one month, funding rounds are now closed. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the team at iNets for the support and continued interest in our endeavours and remind any fledgling SMEs and inventors to pay attention to these valuable activities happening across the South West. By working together, building connections, and maintaining a growing network we can build on our already thriving industry and respective businesses. In the wake of our successes with the Microelectronics iNets programme we are now investigating more ways we can connect our customers with important funding and look forward to building those important future relationships and continue our work helping South West inventors lift their ideas to innovation.
For more information, case studies and news on the Microelectronics iNets programme please visit www.microelectronics-inet.co.uk
Summer usually signals the slow down of the engineering sector, but not at Cubik. Last week Paul Mullen (Managing Director) and Sophie Adams-Foster (Project Manager) attended the Institute of Directors South West, Director of the Year Awards.
Held at the wonderful Bordeaux Quay in Bristol City Centre, with guest speaker James Sproule (IoD, Chief Economist), it was a fantastic opportunity to meet other local business owners.
Simon Face (IoD, Regional Director), and his team at Bristol and Bath Science Park organised the event and Paul was stunned to have been Highly Commended in the Small Company Director Category.
Collecting his award from host Laura Rawlings and Richard Ayre (IoD, Regional Chairman), Paul commented:
“I am shocked, but pleasantly surprised! I love what I do and have a fantastic team of people working alongside me at Cubik Innovation. The South West region is alive with vibrant businesses, it’s a great city to work in and these awards are a demonstration of the diversity of the local economy.”
Other winners included Julie Moore (Green Gourmet) who won Director of the Year, Neil Way (Managing Director, Jeff Way Electrical Services) voted Family Business Director and Vashti Seth (Director, Deki) who won Third Sector Director.
It was an excellent evening, and we look forward to meeting more local business owners at the next event.
Next up, we will be attending the Bristol Post Business Awards at The Engine Shed where we have been nominated for the Start Up Business of the Year Award. Boys, it’s time to break out your dinner jackets.
Cubik Innovation are proud to support local schools and colleges and strengthen the link between education and industry. Our aim is to ensure young people experience ‘real life’ engineering whilst gaining support navigating future career plans. This year we have accepted five work experience placement enquiries from students aged 14 to 17. This week, we were joined by 15-year-old,Grace Parraman from The Bristol Steiner School for a 4-day placement. Grace split her time between our administration, design and production departments which enabled her to gain an overview of the whole business.
Here’s Grace’s work experience diary:
My four days at Cubik have flown by! Despite it being a short week, it was surprisingly tiring with a lot of stuff packed in.
I was very warmly welcomed by the lovely Lianne, the Office Coordinator at Cubik, who took me through l my induction papers, now sitting in my Cubik green folder, which I am fiercely proud of! The majority of my first morning was also spent, explaining to the team I didn’t like to drink tea or coffee which they found quite hard to believe.
On my second day I was in the production department or as I warmly think of it the ‘techy room’, doing some wire crimping and soldering. I think I have a lot to learn in both aspects but all in all a good experience. The team are an amazing group of people – you must be amazing to buy your work experience person a doughnut! I came home tired that day, a great snapshot of what to expect from a full working day.
On my third day I was back in the office working with Russell and Paul who showed me the world of electronic design and PCB layout. Russell and I had some interesting chats about wallabies, and he showed me what he was working on, which was very interesting.
I am writing this on my final day, and I have had an amazing experience! I would suggest to anyone who looking to do electronic design or any other technical engineering to talk to Cubik about possible work experience opportunities. I am undecided as whether I will enter the engineering industry one day, not because of my experience at Cubik, but because I really haven’t made up my mind where my heart lies.
I would like to say thank you to the whole team! Especially Sophie for finding me the opportunity, Lianne for being so lovely, Paul for granting me the opportunity and Bob the security man at the Bristol and Bath Science Park for generally being very nice, so thank you.
Unfortunately, this years’ work experience calendar is full, but we are always keen to hear of young engineers looking to gain some experience in electronic design and production. Please contact us directly or via our enquiries mailbox to discuss placements for 2016.
By engaging with local educators, we hope to build the experience and ambitions of kids who might want to start their career in the engineering world. This year we have taken on three work experience students aged between 14 and 17 from local schools and colleges.
Our work experience placements involve learning how things work, how we code and how we prototype, manufacture and design electronics products – not a drop of ‘tartan paint’ or a ‘long weight’ in sight.
In the summer, we were joined by Will Graham (Mangotsfield School), Nathan Dolan (Downend School) and Luke Staniland (St Bernard Lovell School). They all got stuck into learning about the electronic product lifecycle and learning all the important facts from Managing Director, Paul Mullen.
Day 1
We split up and worked with various members of team. Will started off the day watching Dan debug some code whilst learning all the ins and outs of what the job entails. Nathan spent the morning with Giles working through a PCB layout design and discussing what Giles does day-to-day in his role. After lunch, we swapped places.
Day 2
Today we were set the task of designing a fully functional circuit involving 10 LEDs, resistors, and AA batteries. To begin with, we spent half an hour with Paul getting to grips with basic electronics. The rest of the morning was spent working out what strength resistor we needed to use with the LEDs we had chosen. We also had to work out how many batteries we would need and how long they would last. One our design was finalised, we spent the afternoon using the company’s 3D printer and looking at the sort of things it could do.
Day 3
We began by building the circuit we had designed the day before, which involved a lesson in soldering and the basic principles of electronic construction. This took up a large part of our day but was worth it as it was very enjoyable. We spent the last part of our day continuing our work with the 3D printer.
Day 4
Today was probably our favourite day! We were given the opportunity to make and code one of Cubik’s electronic business cards which includes an LED game. Dan taught us how to use solder paste, but we found it quite frustrating getting to grips with the fiddly nature of hand placing components on to a PCB. With help from Dan and Chase, we tweaked the programming in the business cards so that they displayed a pattern once you had completed the game.
Day 5
Today we helped in production with the AOI system. We took apart two computers and installed Windows 7 to get the AOI system working.
Overall, this week has been one of the best. We have learned a lot about the industry and it has given us a good understanding of what it feels like to have a job. This week has also presented us both with a clear perspective on what we want to do when we are older – electronics!
During my week at Cubik Innovation, I met everyone in the business and explored almost every aspect of what they do. It has been a great learning experience for me, and I have truly enjoyed it.
I was first interviewed last year by Paul who offered me the placement on the spot. I didn’t know what to expect but I knew that I would learn a lot and I was hoping it would be fun. What I didn’t expect, was the amount of effort the team put into making sure I was involved, and the number of tasks I would be asked to take part in.
Across the week, my tasks included learning about coding language C and helping with software development, drawing schematics, and building and testing boards to ensure they meet Cubik’s strict quality standards.
One highlight of my week has been experimenting with the 3D Printer. I was asked to design a plastic case for a circuit board that would be used for testing. Russell showed me how to use some 3D modelling software that would communicate with the printer about the final product. This was a real learning experience for me, as I have not previously used any CAD (Computer Aided Design) software before. I also managed to get a Cubik logo to print in red plastic that I was given to take home. It now stands proudly on my desk.
My work experience at Cubik has helped me decide that I would like to pursue a career in this industry and as it captures all my interests.
I would like to thank everyone at Cubik and the Bristol and Bath Science Park for being so friendly and helpful during the week. I would especially like to thank Paul for giving me the opportunity to do my placement at Cubik. It is an amazing company and the light atmosphere in both the Design and Production departments ensured it thoroughly enjoyable.
Unfortunately, this years’ work experience calendar is full, but we are always keen to hear of young engineers looking to gain some experience in electronic design and production. Please contact us directly or via our enquiries mailbox to discuss placements for 2016.
For the majority of UK designed electronic products and systems, the route to market has sign posted diversions to the Far East. Driven by the prospect of low-cost manufacture and navigated by a seemingly skilled workforce and the traffic of a captive consumer market.
This direction has worked for millions of products, allowing smaller companies and entrepreneurs to manufacture at the lowest cost possible. However recent years have seen the pace of this trend slow down as the importance of good value over takes the importance of low cost. So, what does this mean? Countries like China have offered value for money for years now. But is the relief on the company balance sheet worth more than the clear benefits domestic manufacture can reap in terms of quality and customer relationship?
Cubik Innovation are proud to be part of a revolution which is helping to bring manufacture to the UK. We believe partnering with UK based manufacturers can yield huge value, and here’s why:
Better communication
The ease of communication that is achievable by being near clients, customers and suppliers is invaluable to the smooth running of a project. In addition, there is no substantial management required to pilot through time zones and costly call tariffs, meaning communication points can be frequent resulting in a sense of project partnership between customer and supplier.
Faster reactions
Straightforward paths of communication mean faster reaction times. Problems can be reported and resolved quickly, shrinking the impact of potential problems.
Higher quality
High quality is second nature to most UK suppliers, almost intrinsically programmed. Ensuring this quality further safeguards against future technical pitfalls and failures.
Strict regulation
Production in the Far East can bring with it a host of uncertainties regarding IP legalities. Manufacturing in the UK means inventors are protected against the very real fear of ideas being stolen, copied, or reproduced. A notorious trap which many creators have fallen victim to in recent years, due to poor regulation in China. Manufacturing in the UK offers a shield against this risk.
Technical edge
Although China almost certainly has the advantage of a lower labour cost, the UK is surpassing this with and influx of highly skilled engineers entering the workforce. Educational institutions from schools to universities are seeing surges in the number of students taking up STEM subjects with career aspirations in the engineering sector.
Supporting local economy
Recently, UK economy has been up and down. Supporting each other through the changing landscape means less SMEs and emerging businesses will fail and could lead to gradual growth and a reduction in redundancies. In the South West of England we are extremely lucky to have a hub of innovation, a cluster of organisations that collaborate allowing important growth – a formula which is attainable in all corner of the UK.
Environmentally friendly
Environmental consciousness is becoming a common hallmark in everyday life as well as in business operations. Being close to your customers and suppliers helps to limit ‘on the ground’ transportation, reducing your business’s carbon footprint. Chinese manufacture can often utilise both eco harming and person harming materials which, for the most part, have been eradicated in the UK by manufacture legislation.
For the smaller company and entrepreneur ensuring all these elements are taken care of right from project kick off is vital when budgets and timescales are tight, manufacturing domestically guarantees this is the case. Cubik’s production team are adept at providing this service.
Cubik Production
As part of our full product lifecycle service, we offer production services which have the capability to deliver prototype, batch, and full-scale manufacture jobs for abroad range of customers. Our team come with 40 years combined experience in electronic manufacture incorporating stunning technical expertise with a dynamic approach which makes our team unique.
Our team members specialise in different aspects of the production line, automated SMT and specialist solder techniques and are supported by specialist assembly machinery and equipment. We also have in-house mechanical and industrial assembly capability which enables us to produce complete box builds for our customers, whilst adhering to strict quality standards.
Our customers are supported by an expert procurement team who guarantee the best quality components and materials at the lowest cost.
Production customers
We have worked hard to build a loyal customer base who return to Cubik Innovation time again for the manufacture of their established products and systems.
Armortek, a family run business with roots in the South West of England are a world leading manufacturer of 1/6 scale armour kits for military model enthusiasts, with a stunning reputation for high quality service, reliability and build quality.
“Pleasant, helpful and professional service.”
We have been supplying Armortek with their electronics for the past year. When asked about the importance of ‘Made in the UK’, Gill added:
“It is something we care deeply about, as it is core to our company ethos and part of the essence of Armortek.
Partnering with Cubik was an easy to decision to make due to the helpful and professional service and I would highly recommend manufacturing with Cubik to other SMEs. Having them close by meant is was very easy to communicate on the project.”
We are currently working with brand new customers like Agillic headed by Harry Gee. Harry is working alongside Bristol’s Robotics Lab to deliver a low cost, ‘build your own robot’ designed to stimulate interest in robotics and coding amongst children and adults. Despite initial plans to move the production to the Far East, Harry has selected Cubik to manufacture the electronics for this product.
“I would like to have a local, trusted supplier to work with so I can iron out any issues quickly. Manufacturing locally means I can access local funding to make a solid business case.”
The project is currently ongoing, shipping 1,000 units within 10 weeks this spring.
Take it to production
Manufacture in the UK is becoming more and more prevalent. We want to make this the norm, for the benefit of your company, the economy, and the wider world. Weighing up the pros and cons of manufacture in the Far East for your electronic product? Contact our production team and we can organise a consultation to explore UK manufacturing at the best cost and quality available. You could be surprised.
Happy 3rd birthday to us!
We can’t believe this day has come round so quickly. You know what they say about time flying when you’re having fun! Over the past three years we have been busy, driving the business forward, expanding our services, and working with some fantastic people.
What started as three of us in a room with a few nice projects has transformed into a 20 strong team across three departments, working on over 20 live projects at a time.
To celebrate we opted for the classic birthday protocol of cake and balloons. As a young company we’re still in the age bracket where it’s acceptable to enjoy a less sophisticated birthday celebration. Perhaps when we get to ten years we’ll aspire for something more like laser quest or ten pin bowling.
To mark the occasion, a milestone which signifies our transition from ‘start-up’ to established small business, we wanted to spotlight some of the awesome team members who have made our success possible.
Chase Callender
Chase joined Cubik as our first employee and has been working at ‘top gear’ helping to accelerate growth ever since. He was responsible for some of the first electronic designs shipped to our customers and has been pivotal in winning some of the bigger projects in the following years. Without Chase’s crucial effort we would have taken a lot longer to get to where we are now.
Sam Beard
Sam started as Cubik’s first production engineer but took on the role of self-proclaimed ‘do-er of all things’, dealing with office systems and quality management as well as production work. Since joining, Sam has progressed to Production Manager and is quality management lead. He has built the Production department from the ground up. Not only is it commercially successful, but also pretty special in the way it runs, with a mix of experienced technicians and apprentices. Sam has cultivated an environment for learning and development without losing the ‘go do it’ attitude which means the team always deliver on time.
Sophie Adams-Foster
Sophie came to Cubik as a contractor in our first year to optimise Marketing efforts and was instrumental in raising the business’ profile and maximising visibility in the early stages of the business. She designed clever brochures, exhibited our wears at Venturefest, networked and made connections with local academia and industry, laying important groundwork for future growth and development. Sophie takes the lead on New Product Design and Development and manages our Project Management team whilst overseeing all new business activity.
This year we’ve had some great successes - winning awards, working on innovative projects and growing our team. The year ahead holds more change, with the possibility of new premises, a brand-new industrial design department and (hopefully) some exciting new projects. Big thank you to the Cubik team, our customers, and all our great design partners. Keep your eyes on our feed for more developments, we have some exciting things planned, including a website revamp.
Venturefest was back with a bang this year, hosting start-ups, innovators, tech corporates and hundreds of like-minded delegates at Bristol’s landmark tech and creative hub, The Engine Shed.
The brainchild of Lord Sainsbury and Professor Peter Johnson, bred from a conversation about the lack of investment opportunities for innovation, Venturefest has been established in Bristol since 2011, and has slowly become the annual go-to destination for all that innovate.
The event, which has enjoyed huge success in previous years and was no different this year. Showcasing inspiring technology, innovation and exhibits of unprecedented scope including a driverless Bowler Wildcat from BAE systems. Not to mention our very own exhibition stand.
Following a successful Venturefest debut in 2013 we were raring to be involved with this years’ event. As in 2013, we opted to create a production line that showcased our manufacturing capability and gave delegates a glimpse into a traditional PCB production line.
We used our pick and place machine and reflow oven to manufacture 200 bespoke business cards programmed with a challenging LED game, which we handed out to delegates. We apologise in advance if attempting to conquer the game has resulted in any loss of sleep or frustration.
Throughout the day we met some people from young entrepreneurs and SME’s to spin out projects including Sphere, a project targeted at developing wearable technology for the healthcare industry and Yu-Scan, a medical scanning device targeted at connecting users with medical informatics. We hope to be able to continue the conversation with everyone we met over the coming months.
After such a good experience this week at Venturefest Bristol and Bath, we are now exploring the idea of exhibiting at Venturefest Wales. Stay tuned, who knows what will be manufacturing next.
Looking ahead
We've got a busy month ahead! We are in competition with local companies to win the ‘Start-up of the Year’ at the Bristol Post awards, plus our Managing Director, Paul Mullen, has been nominated for ‘Director of the Year’ in the IoD SW Director awards.
Wish us luck, we hope the company wide effort put in to sourcing the most appropriate black-tie attire will be worth it!
We are passionate about bridging the gap between industry and education and are always on the lookout for opportunities where we can give young innovators and engineers the chance to experience real life design and technology. So, when Shanta Hurford of the St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School’s Lego Club phoned to ask if we could help the children prepare for the last round of the Lego League finals, we jumped at the chance!
Each year, children between the ages of 9 and 11 are given the opportunity to sign up for the club where design and technology is the only learning objective. Lego Club is not only an outlet for their interest in engineering but also teaches them valuable skills for the world of work and further education, such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and presentation.
The Lego League is an international competition consisting of three key parts: a Lego robotics challenge including programming, a unique innovation project using a specific brief set out by Lego and reported evidence of the club working as a team.
Flying the flag for North-East Bristol, St Augustine’s Clever Lego-ers triumphed at the semi-finals for their innovative Tap Listen Blend Pen. The design answered the brief of producing a world class learning aid but pushed the boundaries further by aiming it directly at helping people in the UK who suffer with dyslexia. The pen works by phonetically sounding words as they are scanned over, but unlike the product’s hypothetical competitors is designed to work on all types of publication and writing.
In February, the final will involve a Dragon’s Den style presentation, delivered to leading experts in the field of technology and business, on how the product could be brought to market in real life terms and will include a session of quick-fire questions on cost and manufacturing.
Here’s where Cubik stepped in! Taking a concept from initial idea to specification, design through to prototype, and eventually on to the market is our speciality. We couldn’t wait to help the kids get started!
The day began with an excellent presentation from the Lego Club’s which included props and some very convincing acting. The Cubik team, consisting of Paul Mullen (Director), Sophie Adams-Foster (Project Manager) and Lianne Barnard (Office Coordinator), had the chance to ask some important questions: How much would the product cost? How would the product be made? What would it be made from? We were extremely impressed with the level of research and planning that went into designing such a unique and worthy product.
Following the session, we delivered an informative presentation on how Cubik would take this product to market using our five-phase prototyping service, which in a real-life application, would be perfect for the Lego Club’s invention.
The day ended with a tour of our labs and a look at some of the projects we are currently working on.
Lego Club leader, Jess Scott, said:
“The group will certainly be better equipped to deal with the grilling they will get in Loughborough. In fact, I think the judges will get a shock at how well informed they are”
Following the visit, we received letters of thanks from the children including one from Grace, one of the club’s project coordinators:
“You gave our teams advice and what you said we'll certainly put into action. I loved the experience and will remember it for the rest of my life.”
The children were so impressed by the Bristol and Bath Science Park building, with Barnaby adding:
“I thought it was an amazing building, so good I built it on Minecraft.”
We were delighted to help and left the experience with the sense that the future of our industry is in safe hands with such bright innovators in our schools.
We wish the Lego Club all the success and luck for the final.
In recent months much has been written about Bristol being an exciting hub of innovation that rivals London and other cities. The technology and manufacturing sector has not only seen increase in funding being made available to business, but also academic institutions further supporting valuable research.
Buildings like Bristol and Bath Science Park have been developed allowing new business the opportunity to grow through collaboration and learning. With a city full of people and businesses at the top of their game, Bristol also benefits from great networking events.
Cubik Innovation was recently invited by Spider Group to speak at their annual Tech Talks event, at The Engine Shed in Temple Meads.
Tech Talks are aimed at connecting people and technology and host three speakers from within the sector to speak about their specialist areas.
Presenting alongside Paul Mullen was Matt Watts from NetApp talking about the potential marketing opportunities within big data and Luke Briner of Pixel Pin to discuss internet security. Paul spoke passionately about the advantages of manufacturing in the UK.
It has been widely reported in the media and specifically the EEF: The Manufacturing Organisation that 40% of businesses have brought their manufacturing capabilities back to the UK.
This is fantastic news but there are many things that businesses like Cubik can do to help secure the longevity of the UK manufacturing industry by taking firm action themselves.
Outlining Cubik Innovation's capabilities as electronics manufacture, Paul delivered two threads on how securing this longevity is possible when comparing to low-cost countries.
Touch time
When looking to manufacture an electronics product, a bill of materials (BoM) is generated at the end of the design development, listing individual component costs. What the BoM does not list is the touch time – the required intervention of an individual to complete the work resulting in increased costs.
Paul outlines how we should consider touch time in the BoM to reduce overall costs.
Using an example of a PCB design from China and the UK, Paul demonstrated how clever design thinking allows us to consider a different mindset and take a different approach to reducing costs by factoring in components, as opposed to removing them.
Supply chain
A crucial area that is often forgotten is the supply chain cost implications. The benefits of using a UK supplier in terms of lower stock holdings, better management costs, the ability to tailor your stock requirements and manufacturing in smaller quantities, often outweighs low-cost country manufacture.
Weighing up the benefits of these areas, designing for manufacture in the UK can help secure the UK’s economy for the long term. With a panel session at the end of the talk, there were some thought provoking questions posed by the audience which made for an interesting comparison between the talks.
We look forward to the next opportunity to speak with local members of the technology and manufacturing community in Bristol.
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