Challenge
Hexa-Halers were keen to learn more about the potential of Industry 4.0 technologies for enhancing their design and improving the perceived value of their product. The company wanted to appeal particularly to younger audiences who have admitted to neglecting using their inhalers in public based on the unattractive appearance and indiscreet handling of existing products.
Solution
The Virtual Engineering Centre worked with Hexa- Halers in exploring several technologies and digital tools that could enhance and add value to their product.
The VEC created a digital roadmap to highlight how Augmented Reality (AR) technology would allow customers to hold their phone over the inhaler device and scan a QR code, unlocking instructions and guide notes to their phone. The QR code could also direct users to the Hexa-Haler website to find more information and additional products and services that could complement the inhaler device.
The Virtual Engineering Centre also highlighted the potential of NFC ‘contactless’ technology for enabling dynamic links to smartphones and IoT devices, without the need for QR codes. In addition to this, the VEC provided a research paper to assist with future digital technology adoption to support Hexa-Haler’s product presentations to stakeholders and potential investors.
The use of AR and QR technology would also allow Hexa-Halers to collect valuable data on their customers, enabling them to further improve their product offering, providing enhanced customer service and highlighting where they can add value in the future.
This concept can be further developed into an app to allow Hexa-Haler customers to become notified when their renewal date is pending. The Hexa-Halers scannable QR code can also be added to a business card, quickly and easily redirecting stakeholders to the company website in addition to being included in all Hexa-Haler devices packaging.
Impact
Hexa-Halers are now exploring additional support projects including LCR4.0 Holistic for further developing and testing of their inhaler whilst exploring future collaboration opportunities for taking their product further.
The company have now developed a working prototype and are looking at working with focus groups for additional user feedback which can support future modifications to ensure that the product is more desirable and will increase use amongst potential customers.
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We were initially interested in engaging with LCR4 START to learn more about the technology we knew was available but were not sure as to how it could be implemented into our products and add further value.
Mike Howell, Hexa-Halers Director
The VEC’s attention to detail was fantastic and the support was extremely tailored and bespoke to our needs as a business and where we want to take Hexa-Halers.
After quickly exploring multiple avenues, we believe we have reached and achieved affordable innovation for the end-user.
