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Technology transfer

The RCNDE programme has already delivered a pipeline of more than 50 exploitable products at various stages of development. Exploitation and technology transfer is encouraged through a number of initiatives including:

  • 1) Publication of research outcomes
  • 2) Facilitation of follow-on development funding
  • 3) Engagement of the supply chain through RCNDE Associate membership
  • 4) Technology Readiness Workshops involving the academic researchers and end users in a systematic evaluation of the status of the technology and steps required for exploitation
  • 5) Technology Transfer events for the Tier 1, Tier 2, and Associate members
  • 6) Funding of initial technology transfer projects
  • 7) Embedding new technology into industry via the Industrial Doctorate scheme 

Exploitation routes

Exploitation can take a number of different routes including:

  • 1) Open access – where universities make the results of research freely available and will often provide support to exploiting organisations
  • 2) End user adoption – where end user members take up the technology for use in their own plant and facilities
  • 3) Licensing – where commercial terms are agreed with one or more organisations to supply products or services to the market
  • 4) Spin-out – where universities establish companies directly to supply products or services.

Measuring the progress of a technology

 The progress of every RCNDE project is reviewed regularly in terms of its Technological and Commercial Readiness Levels. Find out more here.

Tech transfer case studies

Reliability of automated inspection

Case study of a data fusion based software framework that provides a partially automated capability for systematic combination of diverse readings, allowing components to be declared defect-free to a very high probability while readily identifying any defect indications.

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Advanced aero-engine inspection

A Rolls-Royce and Bristol University collaboration to use wave propagation modelling to correct ultrasonic imaging algorithms, thereby enabling the reliable volumetric inspection of single-crystal aerospace components.

Read More »
View all case studies