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We were thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Smart Design, and they did not disappoint. Not only did they exceed my expectations of design support and collaboration, they also considered what was best for our company and our next steps.
PS2
Seeking the perfect pour
Poursteady
- ClientPoursteady
- IndustryConsumer Goods
- ServicesDesign Engineering, Industrial Design, Product Innovation, Prototyping, Customer Research
Inspired by long lines and one overworked barista, Poursteady created an innovative robotic pour-over machine used by cafes all over the globe.
By combining automation and design, Poursteady mimics the human motion of making a pour-over coffee while providing a more engaging experience. After 8 years of pioneering the automated coffee experience with their 3 and 5 cup machines, Poursteady partnered with Smart Design to create the PS2. The next-gen machine takes up less counter space, has an integrated boiler, and improved UI.
The Poursteady PS2 launched at the Specialty Coffee Expo in April 2023, and is available for pre-order.
Beauty of hand pouring, precision of a machine
Poursteady was created by robotics engineers who wanted to apply their experience building NASA rovers and equipment for the pharmaceutical industry to help busy baristas. Conversations with cafe owners and the Poursteady team helped ground our exploration in what was most important to cafe owners – a memorable cafe experience that generated conversation and loyalty from patrons. Internally, they needed to make the product easier to manufacture and assemble by their small in-house team.
To tackle this ambitious agenda, Smart Design collaborated with the Poursteady team to approach design improvements and manufacturing challenges at a pace that worked for the resources of a small company. Through open collaboration and iterative development loops of engineering and research sprints, the teams could quickly test and evaluate ideas. This flexible process allowed the Poursteady team the time needed to hone in on recommendations while building confidence internally on design decisions.
Throughout the entire process, we worked with Poursteady’s existing manufacturing partners to make sure our designs were cost-effective and scalable.
Big improvements, smaller footprint
The original Poursteady PS1 5-cup pour-over system had an external boiler that needed to be mounted under the counter, the Poursteady PS2 has an internal on-demand boiler for energy efficiency and precise temperature control that is easily serviceable through removable side panels. The new boiler is significantly more compact and reliable and heats water as needed, rather than in a larger tank.
Our design exploration balanced the new technical needs while keeping the focus entirely on the movement of the robotic arm. The PS2 has a sleeker profile with less visible seams. The reduced footprint makes it a great solution for cafe owners who need to maximize every square inch of counter space. The PS2 also features a minimal UI interface that allows baristas to focus on what matters, delivering quality pour-over coffee and customer engagement.
Minimal interface
The restrained UI preserves the timeless character of Poursteady with the seamless glass panel. The push dial interface simplifies the coffee recipe selection process while still allowing for more advanced functionality.
Streamlined assembly
The refined manufacturing approach minimizes visible seams while enabling easier serviceability through removable side panels.
Options for owners
The compact footprint conserves valuable countertop real estate. A new integrated boiler reduces installation barriers for cafe owners. The PS2 can be also customized with both a countertop or recessed configuration.
