Tech Firms Team for Wearable Device Development

Logic PD, a Minneapolis, Minn.-based company specializing in device connectivity, has teamed up with Maxim Integrated Products Inc., a San Jose, Calif.-based developer analog integration, to develop proof-of-concept products for the $70 billion wearable device market.

The collaboration is intended to leverage Logic PD’s expertise in what the industry calls the “internet of things” and Maxim’s technology to accelerate wearable product development. The internet of things is is the interconnection of uniquely identifiable embedded computing devices within the existing Internet infrastructure.

The first concept resulting from the collaboration is the Wellness Watch, a wearable fitness monitor that displays the user’s body telemetry to a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Developed in approximately two months, the wearable watch concept combines the application of Maxim’s technology and Logic PD’s design, development and manufacturing capabilities for wearable devices.

Wearable devices sense and communicate information through wireless means while consuming very small amounts of power. The Wellness Watch employs Maxim’s power and battery management, sensors and wireless communication technologies.

“Technology is driving device development but it is the integration of the technology based on user needs that ultimately empowers the use of the device by consumers,” said Chris Neil, senior vice president, industrial and medical solutions group at Maxim Integrated Products. “With Logic PD’s systems-level expertise and user understanding for connected devices combined with our technology, we can help companies bring their products to market more quickly.”

The insights from the collaboration have resulted in the creation of a step-by-step application guide for developing a wearable device that will enable Logic PD clients to build off of a development ready foundation to save time, money and reduce risk, the firms reported.

“In the rapidly evolving wearables segment, time is of the essence,” said Jason Voiovich, vice president of marketing at Logic PD. “The speed at which product design and proof-of-concept must occur presents unique challenges for companies who are used to the traditional prolonged product development. Working with Maxim, we’ve validated the path for quickly bringing products from design to deliverables early on. The insight gained gives companies a head start with which to address the needs of their end users.”

In addition to Minneapolis, LogicPD has offices in Boston, Mass., and San Diego, Calif.