Case
Smart coffee platform enables next-generation brewing.
This case explores how Knightec Group and Wilfa successfully evolved an already well-rated consumer product into a smarter, more flexible solution—enhancing the user experience while building a platform for future innovation.
ClientWilfa
IndustryOther
ServicesEmbedded & Electronics
Background
Wilfa identified a need to further develop the Wilfa Performance coffee maker, an iconic model of the brand with the goal of giving users a better coffee experience. New features such as One Cup functionality had already been identified, and it became clear that achieving this would require a redesign of the control system and control philosophy. At the same time, Wilfa wanted greater control over firmware and electronics design to support future development.
Challenge
Together with Knightec Group, the collaboration focused on exploring new possibilities while respecting key consumer product constraints: keeping production costs down, adapting to already well proven hardware, and giving users the flexibility to optimize their coffee brewing experience.
From process insight to product: A smart coffee brewing solution.
The implementation began with learning and understanding the coffee brewing process. This knowledge was coupled with the product through a lab test rig, where all components were tested and monitored. Ideas and solutions were explored collaboratively, leading to the design of a new, flexible control system capable of supporting different brewing methods. The control system was tested and fine tuned before final implementation, and an accompanying app was designed to give users full control of the brewing process.
Delivered Value
The collaboration between Wilfa and Knightec Group resulted in the development of a new generation programmable coffee maker, featuring Wilfa Future Brew™ technology and Multi Brew Programs™, fully controllable via iOS and Android applications. In addition to the product itself, the project delivered a fully documented electronics design and a comprehensive control strategy, ensuring long-term maintainability and scalability. The app and firmware were also thoroughly documented, providing a solid technical foundation for future updates and enhancements. Overall, this case demonstrates how close collaboration between a product owner and an engineering partner can successfully modernize an existing product while establishing a strong platform for continued innovation.
