Menomonee Falls-based Bradley Corp. recently introduced the first light-powered handwashing bathroom fixture in its industry – the patented ndite technology.
“This innovation converts restroom lighting to energy, which in turn activates the flow of water to Bradley’s Express Lavatory Systems,” said Nate Kogler, the company’s product manager.
The ndite technology uses photovoltaic cells integrated into the top of Bradley’s Express Lavatory System to convert light into electricity. Whether there’s natural light or normal room-level lighting, the cells capture light when it’s available and store the energy for later use in a battery-free system. The ndite technology also eliminates the need for electrical hook ups.
Until now, lavoratories have used electricity and battery power, but diagnosing and replacing a dead battery can cost a company $400. For some systems, this can add up to $1,600 per fixture each year. Environmentally friendly, ndite technology not only eliminates the costs, but also helps reduce the 2.5 billion pounds of batteries that are sent to landfills each year.
The development of the technology began about six years ago after the company began listening to the budgetary concerns of the end users, according to Kogler.
The new systems can produce significant savings, primarily for facilities such as schools, where maintenance resources – both time and money – are always a concern.
“Our new ndite technology will revolutionize the lavatory category,” Kogler said. “This is no ordinary sink. By unplugging our Express handwashing stations, we’ve created a fixture that’s not only energy efficient and environmentally sound, but also virtually maintenance free.”
Bradley’s ndite technology recently was approved and listed in the GreenSpec Directory. It was reviewed and selected by the directory’s editors after meeting a variety of performance and environmental criteria such as water and energy conservation or air quality.
The system is self-sustaining and provides a steady stream of power to the sensors and valves controlling activation. Even in environments where the lights may be off for up to five days, the system will maintain its charge.
Linda Kiedrowski of The Paranet Group Inc. nominated the Bradley Corp. for the IQ award.
Address: W142 N9101 Fountain Blvd., Menomonee Falls
Web Site: www.bradleycorp.com
Industry: Commercial washrooms
Innovations: Created ndite technology, the first light-powered handwashing fixture in the industry.
