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Industrial Design & Innovation

Metrasens Ferroguard

Metrasens

The Brief

Metrasens, a technology company spun-out from Qinetiq, have a patented metal detection technology, capable of increasing safety for hospital MRI facilities. Having developed and marketed an initial device, Metrasens came to Smallfry to develop the next generation of products to bring a high quality appearance, safe and robust construction and significant cost reduction in manufacture.

The Challenge

  • Production techniques suitable for small volume, batch production
  • Increase speed of production assembly/sub-assembly
  • Simple and intuitive user warning system
  • Allow for upgrades to a future digital version
  • Easily portable for transport and fast deployment
  • Very durable for busy public environments
  • Suitable for use for security applications such as schools or prisons
  • Good-looking, high value appearance

The Outcome

  • The new design has helped Metrasens realise the full market potential of their technology with benefits including:
  • 10 fold reduction in assembly time
  • Product costs reduced by over 35%
  • New design brought a x8 increase in turnover (within 1 year)
  • Sales forecast to double for the next 2 years

Context

“Smallfry brought a level of elegance and sophistication to our product that has received a great reaction from our customers. Their sourcing and manufacturing knowledge and project management experience has undoubtedly helped us improve our commercial proposition and delivered a real competitive advantage.”

Dr Simon Goodyear, Metrasens CEO

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