Cognito IKE

Cognito IKE is an innovative Greek startup that focuses on designing and manufacturing cutting-edge solutions aimed at improving hygiene and user experience in public restrooms. As part of the official Greek startup ecosystem "Elevate Greece" and a participant in Eurobank’s "The Egg" program, Cognito IKE is deeply committed to developing smart, practical technologies that address real-world problems.

Our Vision

Our vision is to transform the standard public restroom experience by making it hands-free, hygienic, and user-friendly. We believe that restrooms should offer a clean, safe environment for users while also reducing maintenance and operational costs for facility owners. ZEN Locks is our response to this pressing need for modernization and sanitation.

Innovation: ZEN Locks

ZEN Locks is our flagship product and represents a significant leap forward in restroom technology. Unlike traditional restroom locking systems, ZEN Locks enable users to enter, lock, and exit a public toilet without touching any surfaces, thus minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. This product was designed with both mechanical and electronic components that make restrooms safer, cleaner, and more efficient.

Problem We Solve

Public restrooms are notorious for poor hygiene due to the frequent touching of door handles, locks, and flushes by multiple users. This presents a health risk, especially in high-traffic areas like airports, shopping centers, and corporate offices. Traditional lock systems also require frequent cleaning and maintenance. ZEN Locks offers a solution to this long-standing issue by minimizing touchpoints, providing an automatic door-opening mechanism, and allowing for hands-free locking.

ZEN Locks Components

1. Hands-Free Entry & Exit: The system includes a door opener that keeps the door slightly ajar when the restroom is vacant. This allows users to check the availability of the toilet and enter without touching the door.
2. Contact-Minimizing Lock: Our patented mechanical push-lock can be operated using the elbow or foot, ensuring a completely hands-free experience. The door can be easily locked or unlocked without touching traditional handles.
3. Optional Electronic Controls: ZEN Locks can also be paired with an electronic control system that automates lighting, ventilation, and other restroom amenities, further enhancing the user experience and providing additional energy savings.

Key Benefits

• Improved Hygiene: ZEN Locks significantly reduce the number of surfaces that users need to touch in public restrooms, thereby lowering the risk of germ transmission.
• User Comfort: The system is designed for ease of use, making restrooms more convenient, particularly for individuals with mobility issues.
• Energy Efficiency: With the optional electronic control system, restroom facilities can reduce energy consumption by automating lights and ventilation based on occupancy.
• Durability: Our locks are designed to be durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.

Target Market

The potential market for ZEN Locks includes a wide range of businesses and institutions, such as airports, shopping centers, restaurants, schools, universities, hospitals, and corporate offices. These organizations have a vested interest in providing hygienic facilities for both customers and employees.

Business Model

Cognito IKE aims to collaborate with facility managers, architects, and construction companies to integrate ZEN Locks into both new and existing restroom facilities. We offer different pricing models based on the scale of the project and the specific features chosen by the customer. Our primary revenue streams include direct sales of the lock systems and licensing agreements with large distributors or facility management companies.

Competitive Advantage

ZEN Locks stands out in the market due to its unique combination of hands-free operation, user comfort, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional lock systems, ZEN Locks not only improves hygiene but also enhances the overall user experience, making it an attractive solution for high-traffic public spaces.

Traction

We have already showcased ZEN Locks at several industry exhibitions, including the Athens Metropolitan Expo and the Dubai Big5 show. The feedback from industry professionals and potential clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing interest in collaborating with us. We are currently working with Zogometal SA, a well-established Greek manufacturer, to begin large-scale production of our locks.

Conclusion

Cognito IKE is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for hygiene-focused solutions in public restrooms. As we continue to develop and refine our products, we remain committed to making public restrooms safer, more efficient, and more user-friendly for everyone. Our participation in programs like Elevate Greece and The Egg is helping us build the partnerships and expertise we need to scale our business and expand into new markets.