| TECHNOLOGY |
SNAPSHOT SUMMARY |
WHAT IT DOES |
MARKET SECTOR(S) - WHO MIGHT WANT IT |
KEY UNIQUE FEATURES |
COMMERCIALISATION STATUS |
| A software device for dental decay detection | The technology is an image analysis software tool. | The software analyses x-ray images and indicates areas of decay to the dentist. X-rays are often difficult to read leading to missed cavities. The software can detect inter-proximal and occlusal decay. | As an add-on to x-ray imaging software currently in use in dental surgeries. | The software automatically analyses x-ray images and indicates areas of suspicion to the dentist. It is adaptable to any image software or x-ray machine. | A patent covering the unique algorithms associated with this software has been filed. |
| Acoustek/ Leakage Detection | Technique for detecting leakages, partial and complete blockages in pipelines | Remote detection of leaks, partial or complete blockages in pipelines using acoustic signalling | Oil industry for finding hydrate blockages and detecting sabotage events. Utility companies for detecting leaks in pipeline networks. | Accurate method for finding leaks and blockages. Remote automated operation, enables faster detection and resolution of pipeline problems. | Proof of principle established, now seeking partners for industry trials. |
| Aldezon Limited | Small molecule protease inhibitors | Prevents allergens interacting at cell junctions & entering body. So prevent onset of allergic reactions causing asthma. | Healthcare professionals | Asthma treatment without usual lifestyle changes. Allergic reactions which can cause asthma prevented. | International patents granted & others to be filed. Licensees (pharmaceutical or biotech companies with interest in asthma & related allergic conditions) sought. |
| Allergy Treatment | Small molecule protease inhibitors | Prevents allergens interacting at cell junctions & entering body. So prevent onset of allergic reactions causing asthma. | Healthcare professionals | Asthma treatment without usual lifestyle changes. Allergic reactions which can cause asthma prevented. | International patents granted & others to be filed. Licensees (pharmaceutical or biotech companies with interest in asthma & related allergic conditions) sought. |
| Amelioration of Inflammatory Skin Condition | Therapeutic | Treatment of inflammatory skin conditions | Non-steroidal treatment of inflammatory skin conditions including psoriasis | 1st mover advantage: no effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory currently available ?Novel mode of action ?Potential for treatment post-diagnosis, minimising the need for expensive and unpleasant use of steroids | Method and Composition Patents pending in major territories |
| An imaging device for detection of dental decay | A device to detect dental decay at the very earliest stages without the use of harmful radiation. | The device scans a tooth and produces a map indicating the precise location and depth of decay allowing the dentist to make informed decisions around treatment programmes. | For use a routine screening tool by primary care dentists. | Decreases patient exposure to x-rays, quick and easy to use, output allows high degree of patient interaction; more informed decisions around treatment can be made as decay is detected earlier the opportunity avoiding fillings is there. | A patent covering the device and method of use and data interpretation has been filed through the PCT. |
| Anaesthetic Breathing System | Medical device - anaesthetics | Allows anaesthetic gases to be delivered to a patient and the exhaled gases to be collected and directed to a scavenging unit. | Particularly suited to use during all paediatric surgery operations but will also be applicable to adult surgery. | Valveless system with truly two handed operation Fully scavengable system Simple lightweight and compact Specifically designed for ease of manufacture Clear and intuitive operation | One granted european patent and a second patent pending. Prototype and manufacture protocol. Currently looking for potential licensees. |
| Anti-angiogenesis cancer therapeutics | Novel molecules with anti-tumour activity | Targets blood supply to tumour | Pharmaceutical industry | Greater efficacy compared to existing therapeutics | Early stage development of drug candidates |
| Assessment21 | Software for on-line examinations and marking | Enables students to take exams on-line securely, allows "rich" answers (not multi-choice) and comprises automated marking tool | Professional institutions for exams, HEIs for all undergraduate examinations | Allows text and graphics for truly useful and flexible exam setting. Marking tool allows anonymity of student to avoid bias and allows detection of plagiarism | Spin-out company set up to run trials and commercialise |
| Beam Position Monitor | Detector / diagnostic tool | An innovative way of transparently (non-destructively) measuring the shape and position of X-ray beams | Synchrotron Radiation (SR), Cancer Radiotherapy, Laser cutting | Very high position measurement accuracy, providing analogue and digital signals for feedback control | PCT patent application filed. Technology licensed to FMB Oxford exclusively in the SR field. Feasibility studies being conducted for Cancer radiotherapy application. Clinical groups and industrial partners sought for feedback and technology development |
| Bio Thin Film | A co-polymer formulation of which can be readily coated onto cell culture surfaces. | A functional copolymer incorporating thermal responsive moiety, amphiphilic and chemical features is applied to coating a nano-film on tissue culture substrate surface. | Thermo Responsive Coating | Better cell survival rates when compared to those harvested by enzymes or cell scrapers. Control over surface thickness, functionality and physical robustness. Mass production possible. Ease of manufacture of products coated with this surface. | Patent application filed. Coated surfaces have been used to culture at least half dozen of different types of cells including 2-3 stem cells. |
| Biodrug delivery Technology | Novel engineered -yeast drug delivery mechanism | Passage of intact yeast cells through the stomach, and their subsequent lysis in the intestine to facilitate the release of recombinant proteins at the intestinal mucosa. | ? An ?edible vaccine?: oral delivery of vaccine products that would otherwise be destroyed in the luminal environment ? Drug delivery: effective oral delivery of a wide range of macromolecular pharmaceuticals such as recombinant proteins | New opportunities in peptide therapeutics Relatively easy-to-scale ?Biodrug? technology Potential to combine protein expression and drug delivery in a single ?vehicle? | US and UK patents pending |
| Cross Linking Monomer (HESS) | Water borne latex coating | Efficient curing of water based emulsions at room temperature | Paints, adhesives, non-woven binders & inks | Curing/strength properties that are comparable (if not better) to solvent based systems | Development and scale up of synthetic process underway. Competitor comparison underway |
| Degradable Scaffold for Peripheral Nerve Repair | Medical device / scaffold | Promotes peripheral nerve repair resulting from trauma | Peripheral Nerve Repair | degradable, no requirement for secondary surgery, no immune response, synthetic | Proof of concept proven. Development plan and funding in place to achieve pre-clinical demonstration. Keen to hear from Clinicians and potential industry partners |
| Easy Care Cotton | A new environmentally improved formulation and process for creating wrinkle resistant cellulosic fibres and fabrics | Allows finished cotton garments to retain their dimensions and wrinkle-free appearance during use and wear as well as after machine washing and drying. | For use in the textiles industry to create wrinkle-free easy care cotton fabrics & garments. | Cheap & safe technique that provides shrink resistance and smooth drying properties with reduced discolouration and minimum strength loss compared to current industry processing methods. | Available for evaluation and trials under NDA. |
| Easy Care for Wool | A wool treatement process enabling garments to be made fully machine washable and non-iron | Process incorporates additive to shrink-proof polymers which enable true washability and crease durability during machine wash & tumble dry of 100% wool trousers | Garment manufacturers wishing to introduce high performance wool garments to market | Only method for retaining good crease & not requiring ironing for machine washable wool trousers. | Currently undertaking commercial trials of the technology with fabric and garment makers |
| Electroluminescent Yarns | Flexible electroluminescent fibres | Enables the knitting or weaving of a electroluminescent fibre | Automotive, safety clothing, sports, fashion | Uses existing process equipment, fully integrated into design, robust, washable and wearable. | Protoypes available, seeking partner for product applications |
| Electronic Yarns | Electronic components integrated into textile yarns | Enables micro-electronic components (e.g. RFID chips) to be integrated into woven, knitted fabric or garments | Brand security, supply chain management, safety clothing, transportation, service industries, sensors in textiles, other | Uses existing process equipment and can be woven during the same manufacturing step as the main fabric | Demonstrators available, needs partners for specific applications development. |
| eLunsers | Software based questionnaire for drug medication | Monitors drug tolerance, or acts as self assessment tool for patients using neuroleptic drugs (i.e. for schizophrenia, bipolar mania & related disorders) | Healthcare professionals, contract research organisations, pharma companies | Efficient - enables evaluation of changes in medication - simple intuitive tool - automates complex analysis & decision making | Software & mode of use developed. Collaboration sought |
| Encapsulation and Delivery of biomolecules | Drug delivery | Trageted drug delivery | Biopharmaceutical delivery Whole cell encapsulation and transport Site specific localised conversion of pro-drugs | Capacity to encapsulate and maintain functionality of payload Protection of payload from immune response or proteolytic activities 'Stealth' composition to protect from phagocytosis and non-specific uptake Nanoparticle size to provide optimal colloidal fluid dynamics | Patent pending in key territories |
| Encapsulation of hydrophobics in microbial cells | Drug delivery | The technology of this invention makes possible the reproducible encapsulation of virtually any hydrophobe, for example halogenated compounds, and also of some polymeric material. | Depending on the nature of the microcapsule and the encapsulated material, the product could be for food, agrochemical, aroma, pharmaceutical or other industrial use. | ? Applicable to all kinds of hydrophobic actives, specifically high logP ? Extended shelf life ? Prevent desiccation or oxidation ? Allows good mixing and processing ? Allow controlled release of substances | Patents pending in Europe and USA |
| Enhanced Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Performance | Improved membrane electrode assembly (MEA) in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) | Mitigates methanol crossover through the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) to the extent that like-for-like power density compared to standard MEAs increases by 60% at 70C | Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells used in portable electronic devices, light vehicles, military applications | Simple modification to existing manufacturing processes; increased power output; reduction of fuel required facilitating miniaturisation of DMFC; reduction of MEA cost as thinner membranes are required due to lower methanol permeability | Proof of concept programme is underway to investigate optimal operating conditions. Industrial partners are sought for feedback and technology development/trials and as potential licensees. Patent application in progress. |
| Exciplex Nucleic Acid Detection | Nucleic acid fluorescent detection system | Two separate target directed probes bind sequence specifically to their target, and an exciplex is formed due to the close proximity of the probes. The exciplex emission wavelength is 100 to 150nm longer than that of the unbound exciprobe groups, so identifying the DNA or RNA target. | Diagnostic reagent companies, research institutes & organisations, reagent supply companies, forensic labs, healthcare professionals (disease markers). | Much lower background signal than when using conventional dyes - simple direct detection - increased sensitivity & biospecificity - excellent photostability - supports single SNP detection & analysis - unique time resolved emissions signatures - multiplex analysis of highly complex targets | PCT patent application filed. Prototype developed. Collaborative development partners sought. |
| fEITER (functional brain imaging) | Portable brain imaging device. Uses sub-second electrical impedance tomography. | Enables functional brain imaging at the bedside. | Medical imaging, healthcare providers | Portable, low cost medical instrument for use in A&E, operating theatres etc for stroke assessment and diagnosis of brain disorders. | Prototype in clinical trials (May 2010). Available for demonstration and for further development under licence to interested commercialisation partners. |
| Fluidised Bed Dryer | Technology for real time sensing of product moisture content, and control via feedback to process controls. | Enables real-time monitoring and control of moisture content of powders being dried in fluidised bed dryers, resulting in more consistent product and energy savings for the process. | Suppliers of fluidised bed dryer equipment to the pharmaceutical and food processing industries. | No off-line moisture testing required, more consistent product and reduced energy required for processing. | Proof of principle demonstrated. Scale up testing and optimisation now being carried out. |
| Gold compound for Cancer Treatment | Drug | Second line therapy in patients exhibiting resistance to conventional (cytotoxic) drugs and may show increased efficacy and/or better toxicity profile over existing agents in first line therapy | Oncology ? platinum resistant disease as second line treatment and as first line cytotoxic | Application in platinum-based drug resistant disease | Worldwide patents pending (AU, CA, CN, EP, IN, JP, USA) Patent granted in South Africa |
| Iduronate | Method of synthesis of iduronate molecules | Synthesises complex heparan sulphate molecules (iduronate), which can promote or inhibit the function of heparan sulphate / heparin. (Potential to control processes such as anti-coagulation, angiogenesis, cell growth & migration) | Healthcare professionals (cardiology / vascular medicine, cancer treatment, diabetic retinopathy, rheumatoid arthritis & Alzheimer's disease treatments). | Easily scalable - straightforward synthesis conditions - much lower costs - efficient & effective glycotherapeutic development | Patent filed & more applications planned. Method of synthesis developed, scalability & increased yield demonstrated, saccharide combined with other saccharides (re: formation of basis of new class of glycotherapeutic molecules). Collaborative development partners / licensees sought from pharma & biotech |
| IMAGER | A method of assessing efficiency of internal combustion engines | Images in real time hydrocarbons and combustion products inside engines to allow improvements to design | Specialist suppliers to the automotive industry, automotive industry to understand optimum designs | Only technique for real time imaging of fuel and combustion within engines | Seeking license |
| Improved Process for Liquefying Natural Gas (LNG) | Several compact, single cycle, mixed refrigerant processes suitable for liquefaction of gases, including natural gas. | Natural gas liquefaction is achieved by exposing a gas feed stream to one or more refrigeration cycles. This is extremely energy intensive, due to the amount of shaft power input required to run the refrigerant compressors. The new processes are simpler and more efficient than existing methods. | Suitable for large and ideally for small scale plants (250 kTe - 1 MTe p.a. capacity) for onshore or offshore use. Specific applications include use in stranded fields or for peak-shaving. Ship-based units or floating platforms would be appropriate. | Simple, compact design offers improved thermodynamic efficiency and ease of construction with considerable commercial benefits, not only in capital cost, but in operating costs resulting from reduced energy consumption. | The IP is protected by a UK patent filing. The University of Manchester is seeking suitable partners in the oil and gas industry, including engineering companies and those involved in gas liquefaction and transport, to develop this project under licence. |
| InP HEMTS | High power, high frequency transistor | High performance transistor having very high breakdown voltage (>20V) | Radio-astronomy, medical, telecoms, automotive telemetry | High breakdown voltage, high power, low noise | Prototypes can be made available. Technology ready for license. |
| Integrating Ram | Software for improved design of complex process industry plant | Enables optimisation of the reliability, availability and maintenance aspects of process plant design alongside other parameters | Industry players with large infrastructure (oil & gas, chemicals etc) | Reliability, availability and maintenance aspects not normally considered/optimised in process design currently. Huge cost savings of finished plant to be realised by integration of RAM considerations. | Spin out company. Seeking customers. |
| Interactive FEA | Software for real time visualisation of design changes in finite element analysis work | Enables impact of design changes to be visualised "on the fly" and solving of very large design problems | Product designers, and large scale computer suppliers | Much faster design using FEA techniques, and handling of design problems which are currently too computation heavy | Software at demonstration stage, seeking commercial partners |
| K Switch | Electrical switches woven into fabric | Enables activation of functions through totally integrated switches in fabric linings in cars etc, or in items of clothing. | Automotive and transport sector, effect clothing, sports equipment & clothing, personal protective equipment, building & construction. | Durable, flexible and washable in nature. Uses existing process equipment and can be integrated into the same manufacturing step as the main fabric. Versatile for application development. | Prototypes available. Looking for licensees and bundling opportunities |
| Lubrication control system | Engine lubrication control system | Controls oil film thickness between piston & cylinder in large marine & two stroke diesel engines | Engine manufacturers, injector manufacturers, marine fleet operators. | Direct measurement as opposed to implied measurement. Self calibrating & predictive. Cost savings by fleet operators. | |
| Manchester Bobber/ Wave Energy Device | Wave power generating system | Electricity generation | Renewable energy | Simple design, existing engineering components used in easy to maintain location above the surface. | Half Scale 2x2 array trial planned - 1/10th scale proven. |
| Metal Clad Leaky-Mode Waveguide | An optical sensing technology based on a leaky-mode waveguide structure. | Modifies the position of light, within a waveguide structure, to a region suitable for use in sensing applications. | A manufacturer and/or end user of sensing equipment & analytical instrumentation. Applications in VOC detection, odour sensing, biosensing and diagnostics. | Low cost system which is highly sensitive, and capable of high speed measurement at low power. | US patent granted. Seeking licensing partners for commercial validation. |
| Biomaterial implant for spine repair | Medical Device | Injectable polymer that forms in situ a fast setting, firm, stable gel of doubly cross-linked microgel particles | Repair of intervertebral disc (IVD) - treatment for back pain caused by Degenerative Disc Disease | Treatment through minimally invasive surgery Stability and biocompatibility. | PCT patent filed. POP funding awarded and project initiated |
| Microshocks Harness | An electrically conductive harness & lanyard system designed for environments where individuals are exposed to high electric and magnetic fields. | The harness seeks to remove or at least substantially reduce the sensation of ?microshocks? (AC capacitive spark discharges) occuring. | For individuals working on high voltage towers and/or linesmen carrying out routine checks and inspections of overhead power lines who experience unpleasant electrical discharges that exceed tolerable levels | In most developed countries it is complusory for linesmen to wear safety harnesses whilst working on overhead transmission lines and this solution is easy and hasstle-free as it can be integrated and implemented within an existing product. | Patent filed. Prototype developed & undergoing limited user trials (summer 2010) |
| Microstructure of Metals | Instrument to measure the microstructure of metals during the manufacturing process | Enables the manufacturer to alter the cooling rates of the metal process depending on required microstructure | Equipment Manufacturers, Plant manufacturers | Allow microstructure of metals to be determined in situ | Industrial trials in progress. Seeking licensee |
| Multi-phase separation control | Probe for measurement and control of multi-phase flow, with specific applications in the oil/gas industry. | Using an array of capacitance sensors, the probe monitors the dynamics of multiphase flows within horizontal oil/water separators to improve control of the separation process. It does this by delivering a vertical profile of the separator contents and identifying the locations of phase interfaces. | Installed In the hostile and difficult to access domain of the multi-phase primary separator, used in oil and gas extraction, the probe allows plant operators to control the separation process and monitor the effects of adding surfactants. | The self-cleaning probe avoids contamination, has low-maintenance and, by providing information about the interfaces between the phases, it gives financial and environmental benefits by: - Improved control of the separation process - Reduced risk of plant downtime - Reduction in chemical use | Full-scale prototype developed and granted BASEEFA certification. Protected by international granted patents and available for license. Further granted patents give rise to extra opportunities for additional probes with enhanced functionality using novel complementary techniques. |
| Natural Antibacterial Extract | Natural extract antibiotic & anti-adhesive | Removes bacterium causing peptic ulcers from gut & prevents colonisation of gut | Healthcare professionals, food processing companies (re: use as functional food ingredient) | High potency - does not harm natural gut flora - no microbial resistance problems - natural extracts already in food chain (reduced regulatory hurdles) - cheap to produce | Development stage. Patents filed in major territories. Collaborative development sought from pharma & biotech companies & agencies. |
| NON-HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVE | Drug/Therapeutic | The technology of this invention makes possible development of a class of compounds that are non-hormonal, orally available and target sperm directly on its travel to the uterus thus making the compounds suitable both for male and female contraception. | The product could be for both human and veterinary contraceptive markets | Non-hormonal ?Targets the sperm making it effective in both male and female | Patent pending in Europe, Japan and US Markets |
| Novel Continence Product | | The underwear fits all major brands of continence pads and includes a novel detection system to give wearers early warning of pad leakage so they can take remedial action | Continence pad manufacturers / Continence Product Manufacturers | Novel pad leakage detection system – enhancing user confidence. | We are seeking a partner, preferably with experience of the continence product market, to take the product to market |
| Novel synthetic polymer for bone repair | Bone graft substitute / medical device and coating | Fracture repair, bone void filler, local augmentation, spinal repair | Bone repair | Fibres in the sub-micron range. Mimics structure of bone. Pores allow infiltration of cells throughout the scaffold. Penetration of nutrients. Surface morphology. Biodegradable. Osteinductive. | Proof of principle demonstarted. Currently performing market assessment work. We are looking for interested industrial partners / potential licensees |
| Osteodent osteoporosis early stage detection system | Software that processes images from dental panoramic x-rays. | Indicates someone?s risk of osteoporosis by measurement of a jaw bone feature that is known to correlate very well with osteoporosis risk | In combination with x-ray equipment such as is currently used by dentists and craniofacial hospital departments | A simple add on to existing hardware systems. The only method suitable for routine low cost screening, reliable, low skill requirement to use | A portfolio of patents, some of which have already been granted. Extensive publication in high impact peer-reviewed journals. Ready for immediate commercialisation and marketing. |
| Partial Discharge Control | The use of gels to prolong the lifetime of power electronic modules | The invention that has been made allows the high voltage performance of power electronic modules to be significantly improved | Industrial electronic power modules such as aerospace, rail traction and automotive electronics | Reduction in the failure rates of high voltage power electronic modules | Patent applications filed. Industrial testing underway |
| Peptide Gel for 3D Cell Structure | 3D Peptide hydrogel | 3D cell culturing | Drug discovery, stem cells, tissue engineering, wound healing | The only stable easy to handle, neutral pH, 3D system that is not from a biological source | Development into "kit" form with standard protocol as package for licensing to a manufacturing and distribution partner |
| PIMS | Polymers with selective intrinsic porousity | Useful as network for entrapment of molecules for sequestration or storage | Sensor technology players, environmental companies for selective absorption of pollutants | Tailored chemistry for specific applications related to absorption and release of molecules | Seeking licensees for applications development |
| Plastic Recycling II | Catalytic process to recycle plastic waste into gasoline | Hydrocracks mixed plastic waste to produce light hydrocarbon fractions suitable for use as fuels or as intermediates. | Petrochemical industry, catalyst manufacturers, waste disposal industry, local authorities and major players in the manufacture/supply chain currently sending plastics waste to landfill. | Rapid, high yield, tuneable process can handle mixed waste including PS, PET and PVC. | Development stage - partners for pilot plant scale-up and optimisation sought. |
| Predicting Mechanical Failure | A system for wear debris analysis | Enables the user to determine which part of a mechanical system is being worn and also the cause of wear. | Automotive, Aerospace, Manufacturing Processors | Allows failure to be predicted in real time. | Patent currently being drafted. Seeking licencing for commercial validation |
| Prevention of Hydrocephalus | Dietary supplement | Simple dietary supplement for pregnant mothers and infants with the potential to significantly reduce the incidence and severity of Hydrocephalus | Dietary supplement for women trying to conceive and during pregnancy. Dietary supplement for infants / children already diagnosed with hydrocephalus. | 1st mover advantage: no preventative therapy for Hydrocephalus currently available ?Novel mode of action ?Potential for treatment post-diagnosis ?Prevention of neural tube defects and hydrocephalus ?Safe and Cost effective | Patents pending in all major territories |
| Procollagenix | Method of human collagen synthesis | Mimics various forms of human collagen to promote healing at wound sites. Can be delivered as semi-solid gels (wound healing) or in injectable form (dermal filling / cosmetic surgery applications). | Healthcare professionals, industry (specialised uses) | More desirable method (collagens currently extracted from animals under harsh conditions or extracted from human cadavers). Biosafety - viral & TSE infection risks avoided. Optimised intracellular processing & secretion. Biologically stable collagen with improved allogenic tolerance. Enhanced functionality. | International patents granted, further applications made. Collaboration partners sought from biopharma & biotech companies in fields of aesthetic medicine & wound healing. |
| Radioactive Graphite Waste | A process for treating radioactive graphite and similar radio-contaminated materials. | This process produces a novel functionalised radiocarbon material which can then be incorporated at high loadings into cement and similar materials. | Particularly relevant in nuclear reactor decommissioning projects and radioactive waste management. | Simple, low cost method using proven technology which significantly reduces waste volumes. | Seeking industrial partners/licensees for optimisation work and scale-up. |
| Real Time VOC Monitor | Sensor systems for pollution monitoring | Allows remote monitoring of water supplies for pollution events and allows automated alert and process control to protect infrastructure | Water companies | Best technology for detecting oil in water from independent Water Research Council tests. Also capable of monitoring odour levels | Instruments commercially available through spin-out company |
| Rheo Chip | into a ?Rheochip?-based palm size micro-rheometer. | Can perform full rheometric and flow characterisation of complex fluids in microscopic flow. Can be used as a novel mechanical spectroscopy technique for characterisation of complex fluids. | Rheological Characterisation of Polymer, DNA Protein Solutions Chip based Pharmaceutical Engineering Point of Care, Cell Therapy, Tissue Engineering, Synthetic Biology | Measurement of non-linear steady shear viscosity and extensional viscosity of complex fluids at deformation rate at least two order of magnitude higher than those of commercial rheometers, up to 106 s-1 or higher. | Device tested ? Proof-of-the principle: the measured nonlinear steady state viscosity is in excellent agreement with the results of standard rheometers. There are 20 designs of Rheochips available. Need commercial partner for industry specific requirements and product development. |
| RVOM - Mine Resource Valuation & Optimisation Model | A computer package for producing fast and accurate valuations of mining reserves an uncertainties . | The RVOM delivers information regarding optimum extraction rates to maximise the valuation of the reserve. It can also indicate optimum price levels for implementation of an ?on or off? operational strategy. | Mining / Oil & Gas / Financial Auditing Sectors | Produces extremely fast and accurate reserve valuations. Can handle economic uncertainties, such as price, and geological uncertainty, such as ore grade quality. Can state the optimal extraction rate regime to maximise the reserve valuation. | Complex model and algorithm solved. C++ computer software written. U.S. patent on algorithm filed. |
| Striation free laser cutting | Laser cutting method for cutting metal parts and panels | Produces completely smooth surface on metal parts manufactured by laser cutting | Fabricators and fibre laser company manufacturers | Smooth result on fabricated metal parts | Seeking licensee |
| TDL Sensors | Tunable diode laser gas sensors | Enables continuous monitoring of air gases in a variety of hostile industrial environments | Operators of plant to ensure they meet environmental legislation in respect of stack emissions | High performance and cost effective continuous monitoring capability | Spin -out company working with commercial partners to install systems |
| Thermal Barrier Coating | A bricks & mortar thermal barrier coating design where relatively coarse particles are held together by nanoparticles. | In harsh operating environments, this dense coating provides protection and insulation to particularly complex components such as metallic and/or 3D shaped turbine blades, combustor cans, ducting & nozzle guide vanes. | Of particular relevance in aircraft engine & power generation hot section combustors where longer thermal life cycles and superior erosion resistance are important. | Allows greater mechanical strength and superior erosion resistance; better, smoother surfaces finishes & coating retention as well as being produced using lowered sintering temperatures. | Seeking industrial partner for commercial evaluation. |
| Transformation of Steel | Technology to measure degree of transformation of steel during hot rolling | Allows steel mill operators to monitor the composition of long products during hot milling, leading to improved control of material properties and better product consistency. | Steel mills, mill suppliers and instrumentation industry | Non-destructive, real-time measurement will enable control of hot rolling process; multi-frequency approach permits rejection of interfering parameters. | Industrial trials in progress. Seeking licensee(s) to manufacture and take to market |
| Treatment of Arthritis | Drug | Ameliorates the symptoms and manages arthritis | Arthritis and joint pain | Topical application, smells nice | Worldwide patent granted |
| Virtual Reality Geological Studio | Software for viewwing, manipulating and interpreting LiDAR (ground penetrating radar) data | Enables field geologists to acquire, store and analyse 3D geological data to understand structural and feature information for specific terrestrial locations. | Oil and gas sector for exploration, mining industry. | Fully integrates LiDAR scan data with other field data to enable more complete and accurate structural interpretation. | Seeking license |
| Vision Chip | A s/w programmable CMOS chip in which an image processor is integrated within each pixel of the image sensor | Low power and low cost image capture and processing. | Robotics, automotive, autonomous vehicles, machine vision, image recognition, intelligent security, retinal prosthesis. | Integrated imaging and processing in a single device so high speed data handled internally + low power design | Proven - fully functional samples available and ready for license |
| Wideband Antenna Array | Novel, low-cost, lightweight, extremely wideband array antenna with dual polarisation capability. | A frequency ratio > 3:1 and scalability give the device the potential to extend boundaries in existing and new antenna applications. It can operate as a steerable array (transmit, receive or both) and has low levels of cross polarisation. It can also carry multiple services simultaneously. | The antenna has applications in a number of fields including mobile/marine communications, defence/security, radar imaging, healthcare monitoring. Scaling to 3.0 GHz ? 10 GHz is achievable while an upper frequency limit of 60 to 120 GHz is feasible. | In addition to lower cost and ease of manufacture, the reduced size and weight of the antenna gives greater ease of deployment in the field. Compared with existing technology, the broad bandwidth and scalability offer improved high data rate communication, multifunctionality and higher resolution. | Proof of concept (in the range 400 MHz ? 1.4 GHz) and scalability have been demonstrated. The IP has been protected by PCT filing. The University of Manchester is seeking partners active in e.g. communications and defence markets to further develop then licence the technology and take it to market. |
| Wound Monitor | A wound monitor medical device that allows non-invasive detection of bacterial infections. | Instrument contains 8 commercial metal oxide sensors which together with proprietary electronics and software achieve identification of bacteria by analysis of VOC produced. | Monitoring trauma injuries, chronic ulcers and in military field hospitals. | Non-invasive. Rapid detection of infection in a few minutes and identification of bacteria responsible. | The Device has been tested and analytical software has been developed. The instrumentation requires statutory medical product registration. |
| Yeast Encapsulation | Yeast-based drug delivery system. | Yeast strain expresses recombinant protein drugs / vaccines. Incorporates genetic switch to trigger cell lysis in response to specific conditions. Recombinant proteins are released in the intestinal mucosa. | Health professionals. | Scalable. Advance on enteric coated / controlled release formulations. Gives new opportunities in peptide therapeutics. Combines protein expression & drug delivery in single vehicle. Good human safety profiles. Improved transportation of antigens to immuno-stimulating cells. | UK & US patents granted. Drug delivery mechanism developed. Interest sought from pharma, biotech & drug delivery companies in field of biotherapeutics including peptides. |
