MistyWest was subcontracted to develop a prototype for AmazonFresh’s new rapid grocery pickup service. This entailed designing a unit according to the client’s existing Industrial Design Volume, in addition to being resistant to the variables of outdoor climate, and meeting requirements of UL certification.
Background
AmazonFresh is an online and physical grocery retailer only available to Prime members in the US, offering same-day and next-day home delivery of groceries and select items from their storefront. In 2015, after nearly a decade of offering the delivery service, Amazon expanded their service to offer grocery pickup as well.
A Vancouver-based industrial design firm subcontracted MistyWest to provide engineering and fabrication support for prototypes of an internet-connected LED panel outdoor sign for the initial launch of the grocery pickup service. The signs would serve as a near-to-car progress indicator at pickup locations, informing customers of the status of their order – from packing to dispatching to vehicle drop-off.
The requirements and specifications for this project were set by the industrial design firm, and MistyWest was responsible for sourcing parts for the project, including finding suitable LEDs, and selecting colours and finishes of all external parts.
Our challenge would be to develop a prototype that is UL, CSA, CE and FCC compliant, is capable of withstanding outdoor light conditions and fluctuations in temperature and weather, with a cooling system and appropriate sealing that will prevent electrical failure.
The Solution
Once the project was underway, the design intent shifted to a more compact enclosure for use at a comfortable eye-level for car occupants waiting to pick up their orders. MistyWest was responsible for miniaturizing the existing prototype, bringing forth the challenge of reviewing technology and conducting preliminary redesigns to ensure the Progress Indicator sub-system will fit in a smaller enclosure. Power consumption, thermal requirements and consolidation of the electronics were all taken into consideration to ensure they fit with the new industrial design volume.
Outcomes
MistyWest delivered prototypes that are UL, CSA, CE and FCC compliant, making this our first project that achieved certification. The project was successfully completed and shipped on schedule, with all goals of the client having been met. Amazon Fresh has been rolling out their grocery pickup services at several locations in Seattle, WA since 2017.
