Our Approach
Rather than simply developing a flow restrictor or basic timer, 3fD reframed the project around precise volume control.
We identified that the breakthrough opportunity lay in offering consumers accuracy on par with professional water metering — all in a compact, affordable format suited for garden and domestic use.
Key initiatives:
- Developed a miniature, high-ratio gearbox to deliver billable-meter accuracy.
- Combined physical prototyping with flow simulation to refine impeller and gearbox dynamics.
- Ensured fully passive operation, maintaining affordability and simplicity for users.
- Engineered the design for scalable manufacturing, keeping costs low without sacrificing performance.
Engineering & DFM Decisions
- Gearbox engineering: Designed a compact gearbox (< golf ball size) with a remarkable 250,000:1 ratio for accurate metering.
- Impeller design: Flow simulations and physical prototypes optimised impeller performance to drive precision readings.
- Passive operation: No external power required, ensuring convenience and cost-effectiveness.
- Manufacturability: Designed for low-cost tooling and scalable mass production.
- User-centric design: Auto shut-off feature prevents overwatering, safeguarding gardens and water supplies alike.
Outcome
- Delivered a high-accuracy, consumer-friendly water metering product, achieving performance levels typically found in billable utility meters.
- Enabled controlled water usage, helping users avoid overwatering lawns or overflowing ponds.
- Designed for cost-effective mass production, making advanced water management accessible to everyday consumers.
- Positioned Flostem as an innovator in water conservation technology.
What We Learned
Innovation often lies in asking the right “what if?” By challenging assumptions about what a garden water meter could be, we delivered a professional-grade solution that aligns with environmental needs and market expectations — all while keeping manufacturing scalable and affordable.
