Knaresborough firm designs ‘smart’ plug

GSPK Design of Knaresborough has helped to develop a new smart plug, which will be able to detect when an appliance is switched on and will then wirelessly communicate to family members that the home-user is active and conducting their normal daily routine, thereby helping them stay in their own home and retain their independence. (S)

GSPK Design Ltd, based on Manse Lane, was asked by UK Company 3rings Ltd to create a wireless smart-plug that connects with everyday home appliances such as a kettle or TV and reports on their use.

The original idea came from founder and CEO of 3rings, Steve Purdham, who was looking for new ways to check his mother was all right and turned to his smartphone for the smart-plug idea.

The device will be able to detect when an appliance is switched on and will then wirelessly communicate to family members that the home-user is active and conducting their normal daily routine, thereby helping them stay in their own home and retain their independence.

Paul Marsh, managing director of GSPK Design, said: “We particularly enjoy working on projects that will make a positive difference to peoples lives, especially the elderly and vulnerable.

“Smart technology is a rapidly growing market and our electronics design team are at the forefront of creating products that meet increasing consumer demand.”