Innovate UK and Artemis Technologies, through the Knowledge Transfer Network’s Innovation Exchange, invite proposals for their ride-height and actuation sensing challenge. This seeks novel solutions to detect and actuate the ride-height on a zero emission hydrofoil passenger ferry. Maintaining the correct ride-height is paramount to efficient vessel operation therefore the call is looking for an innovation partner to develop and supply suitable technologies that can measure the ride-height of the vessel during operation and feed information to the actuation mechanisms to keep the vessel deployed at the most-efficient height. Entrants should consider the unique operation of the e-foiler vessel when submitting their applications. The solutions are expected to consider the wave height and trough following the wave so that the hydrofoils maintain their position underwater without the boat causing vertical forces that may damage the hydrofoils in use at cruising speed. Proposals are welcome for existing market-ready technologies, established solutions from other sectors of industry which can be adapted for this application and development proposals based on existing competencies. Potential solutions may come from sensors and photonics, automotive, aviation, manufacturing or marine engineering. Established businesses, startups, SMEs or individual entrepreneurs based in the UK, with the intention to set up a UK base, may apply. Winning solutions will be given an opportunity to present their solutions directly to Artemis Technologies with the potential to partner in development and scaling of the technology together in a collaborative commercial opportunity. The package may also include support from the KTN and relevant catapults, support in the development of a prototype or pilot a place in KTN or Innovate UK events, a potential business collaboration and links to investors.

Website: https://www.ktninnovationexchange.co.uk/Challenges/Single/81

Disciplines: Electric & Hybrid Vehicles