The Smart Scale
There’s no better way to get to know Bottomless than to familiarize yourself with the very core of our subscription service: the smart scale.
In this feature, join us as we dive deep into everything you need to know about this nifty little device, from its design and functionality to how it redefines the subscription scene and customer experience.
The Hardware
A foundation, built to last.
What began as hand-soldered, 3D-printed prototypes (the in-depth journey shared in our founding story) has since evolved into a sleek, WiFi-enabled device that helps us track, calculate, anticipate, and meet our (and your) customers' needs.
In one word: intuitive.
We adopted a gradual development approach, producing scales in small batches to monitor performance and make ongoing improvements, all to create the ideal reordering device.
Model OG
The first few units were hand-assembled and 3D-printed in 2018 before we outsourced the production of the 3D shells. This original model, available in three versions, was sent to our earliest adopters of the coffee subscription program. These prototypes proved impressively durable, with some lasting between four to five years!
Model H
After refining our production process, we introduced this streamlined and lightweight version of the original scale in 2020. Measuring 5.25” x 3.5” x 0.65”, it similarly features a micro-USB charging port and a rechargeable battery that typically lasts about a year and a half per charge. This model is still in use and is sent to most customers with smaller products weighing up to 5 lbs.
Model Beta
With the launch of the pet subscription program in late 2021, we identified the need for larger scales with higher weight capacities. To enhance efficiency, we designed a model with base extenders that allows for the creation of four different sizes from a single design. This innovation not only simplified the design and manufacturing processes but also helped mitigate rising costs.
This model boasts an impressive load capacity of up to 50 kg in its largest size and also typically lasts for up to a year and a half on a single charge.
Model U
Also known as the "protein scale," this model was developed to meet the growing demand from our health and fitness program this year. Measuring 9” x 6” x 1”, it’s tailored to fit standardized health products like protein powders and supplements, with a weight capacity starting at 5 lbs.
What sets it apart from our other models is its non-rechargeable design, sparing customers the need to recharge as the battery lasts up to two years. When it reaches the end of its life, customers will receive replacements and have the option to return the old scales for recycling.
The Algorithm
The intelligence, driving every move.
As intricately designed as it may be, the hardware is just a piece of plastic without a smart system to bring it to life. Each data point transmitted via WiFi helps create a personalized experience for the customer.
Products are stored on the scale at all times.
As customers store products on the scale, our system collects data to analyze their consumption patterns, tracking how quickly they use their supplies. Over time, it predicts how long an order will last and determines the best time to trigger the next shipment.
This process is influenced by various factors, including consumption rates, recent shipping timelines, weather conditions, vendor availability, and fulfillment schedules, all seamlessly integrated into the algorithm.
The Customer Experience
The interface, tailored for every individual.
As our AI diligently operates in the background, customers can explore an interface crafted for personalization and intuitiveness, showcasing data about their consumption levels and scale usage.
Mad Priest’s subscription by usage portal.
In the subscription portal, seamlessly integrated with your website's theme, customers can quickly view their latest weight recording and battery level. By clicking on the data section, they’re directed to a comprehensive page that is a treasure trove for data enthusiasts.
The data page of a Devoción subscriber.
Everything they need is at their fingertips, from detailed readings spanning the past couple of weeks to a link to the scale FAQ guide.
And for all the GitHub aficionados out there, there’s even a fun heat map to explore!
Fun charts on the data page of an Onyx subscriber.
The Response
The voices, shaping our every step.
We take pride in what we’ve built, but our journey is far from over. We believe that true progress begins with listening to those who matter most: the customers.
Here’s what they have been saying (screenshots only) about the smart scale, which has inspired ongoing developments and improvements:
