Case Studies
A few examples of the kinds of connected systems we build — from prototypes to deployed units.
Overview
Sonke is a dynamic South African tech start-up revolutionising oil dispensing and refill solutions in retail. Their innovative dispensing machines enable bulk delivery of cooking oil, simplifying logistics, lowering prices, enabling container reuse, and providing real-time sales tracking. Sonke approached Simplifi to enhance the reliability and scalability of their systems to support rapid growth and their mission towards a circular economy.
Development
Our journey with Sonke began by improving their existing dispensing system, focusing on ensuring their software and mechanical setup were robust, consistent, and maintained reliable online performance. Currently, we are improving electronic- and hardware design to further enhance system robustness, optimise unit cost, and ensure scalability for future deployments. Recently, Sonke launched their first automated refill store. This store is equipped with IoT-enabled technology developed by Simplifi, enabling live sales tracking, automated replenishment alerts, and real-time stock monitoring. This supports sustainable shopping while enhancing operational efficiency and scalability for Sonke. This project demonstrates Simplifi's ability to support clients in scaling their operations efficiently while maintaining high standards and avoiding technical debt. We remain committed to providing Sonke with dependable solutions that grow alongside their business and contribute to impactful sustainability initiatives in South Africa and beyond.
Testimonial
"The Simplifi team has consistently demonstrated exceptional dynamism and professionalism in their work. Their dedication to maintaining the highest standards is evident in every project they undertake. We are excited about the prospect of a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship with Simplifi. I wholeheartedly recommend the entire Simplifi team without reservation."
– Eben de Jongh, Founder and MD at Sonke
Overview
Techla Technologies partnered with Simplifi Engineering to develop a flow meter for measuring water flow in open channels. Accurate flow measurement in these environments is crucial for effective water management and monitoring in agricultural, municipal, and environmental applications.
Development
Simplifi Engineering focused on crafting a custom electronic and hardware layout tailored to the unique demands of open channel flow measurement. Our team also developed firmware to ensure accurate pressure readings and consistent performance under real-world conditions. An integral part of this project is Techla Technologies' complementary mobile application, which enhances the flow meter's functionality and user experience. Using an ESP microcontroller, I2C communication with an LCD display, and a custom PCB, we developed waterproof units that enable easy monitoring of water pressure and flow levels.
Overview
After their Revscout project, Revolute Systems asked us to develop the RevLogger product. The RevLogger is a fruit measurement device used to continuously measure and log the size of fruits in an orchard. This allows the farmer to monitor growth trends and predict whether fruit will be the desired size. The device also had to log GPS coordinates to use as confirmation that measurements are taken at the right place.
Development
A month and a half before the summer harvest season Revolute Systems approached us to develop a fruit sizing device as their current supplier was unable to provide them with the required units due to component shortage. Focusing on function rather than form we developed, tested and manufactured 25 units and managed to add GPS functionality which the previous product did not have. We developed the embedded software, sourced the necessary components, designed a PCB and enclosure within this timeframe. We also tested the device and provided support once the devices were deployed in the field. A second version is currently under development with improved features.
Overview
The University of the Western Cape approached us with a unique challenge through Dr. Bryan Maritz, who specialises in reptile ecology. Standard camera traps often struggle to detect small reptiles, making monitoring and research difficult. Dr. Maritz needed a solution that could reliably detect and photograph these elusive creatures in their natural environment while remaining robust and easy to deploy.
Development
We developed a custom camera trap specifically designed to detect small reptiles using an infrared beam to sense any animals moving through the detection area. Once triggered, the system activates a small camera to capture clear photos of the passing reptile. To ensure reliable operation in remote field conditions, the camera trap is powered by a battery with a solar panel, allowing it to remain operational for at least two weeks without intervention. We designed the enclosure using sheet metal design, adding to its physical robustness and durability in harsh outdoor environments. This structural design approach ensures the trap can withstand environmental conditions and potential damage from larger animals while remaining lightweight and practical for field deployment.
Testimonial
"The team at Simplifi has been professional, enthusiastic, and flexible. They have provided excellent communication around ideas and landmarks in the process. As a result we are currently ahead of schedule and looking forward to completion of this phase of the project."
– Dr. Bryan Maritz, University of the Western Cape
Overview
Nuwerus Vines is a farm in the Overberg area of the Western Cape. The owner of Nuwerus Vines, Christiaan Rabie, came to us with the idea of automating and monitoring his irrigation on the farm. He wanted to be able to turn his pumps on and off from a web dashboard. He also wanted to monitor his pressures at his filter points around the farm. After we automated his pump control and pressure monitoring, we also automated his valve control and his filter points.
Development
We used LoRa communication to send and receive information between the different controllers and monitors. Christiaan had Wi-Fi at his pump station, and we relayed the control and monitor information through the Wi-Fi to a Ubidots dashboard. We used off the shelf pressure sensors and relays to control the pumps and valves and developed custom PCBs and enclosures for each controller and monitor.
Testimonial
"I came across Jacques and the team from Simplifi by chance, needing expertise to build a monitoring setup for my irrigation system on the farm. What started out as a simple project turned into a project with multiple monitoring and controlling features, all accessible through a web platform. Working with the Simplifi team was a joy. They went over and beyond to materialise the ideas I had in my head and put in extra time and effort to please the client’s needs. I will definitely make use of their services for future projects."
– Christiaan Rabie, Nuwerus Vines
Overview
The client is a well established coffee roaster manufacturer. They approached us to form part of their development team for a new, from the ground up design of a smart coffee roaster. We were responsible for prototyping the hardware and firmware of the new roaster that tied in with the database and software of an app development company. We also developed a small proof of concept where we retrofitted a small manual machine to perform automatic roasting using basic firmware and software that we developed. Simplifi also provided project management and technical due diligence to Genio.
Development
Genio did the mechanical development. A third party provided app development services and freelance experts in database architecture and machine learning were respectively part of the team as well. We were responsible for the design and development of the monitor and control software which had to run on an industrialised Raspberry Pi and a bunch of hardware modules produced by Phidgets. We controlled a VSD over MODBUS and actuated a gas valve to control the roaster temperature. We had to meet with other companies to decide on design decisions together to be able to integrate everything at the end.
Testimonial
"We approached the Simplifi team to assist us with managing a complicated R&D project in the IoT space using AWS. The team did exceptionally well and we soon hired them to develop our electronics and manage the project. Their work was quick and professional, and they had an MVP for us in no time. We can certainly recommend their expertise for any project."
– Neil Maree, CEO and Founder, Genio
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