Periodic Reporting for period 1 - PYDRO - Water to Data (Sensing as a Service)
Berichtszeitraum: 2022-08-01 bis 2023-07-31
The urgent water crisis in drought-impacted Europe, with countries like France and Spain facing severe water shortages, sets the context for this project. A key exacerbating factor is leaking pipes in water supply networks, causing an estimated annual loss of 25% of Europe's water, according to EurEau, a pan-European water suppliers group.
The project's primary objective is to combat water loss by utilizing smart and digital water technologies. The primary focus is on developing the PT1, a self-powered, wireless smart sensing device for water pipes. This device aims to provide accurate data on water flow, temperature, and pressure across the network, aiding in leak reduction, pipe burst prevention, and overall water management efficiency.
The project includes the technical refinement of PT1, pilot trials with select water utility companies, certification processes, and preparations for commercialization. The project aims to make a significant impact by creating more visibility in the operation of water networks. This could in turn reduce water leaks, contribute to conservation efforts during droughts, and mitigate climate change effects on water supply By providing real-time data to water utilities through the sensing-as-a-service model of PT1, we could potentially reduce the impact of the water crisis.
The project's primary objective is to combat water loss by utilizing smart and digital water technologies. The primary focus is on developing the PT1, a self-powered, wireless smart sensing device for water pipes. This device aims to provide accurate data on water flow, temperature, and pressure across the network, aiding in leak reduction, pipe burst prevention, and overall water management efficiency.
The project includes the technical refinement of PT1, pilot trials with select water utility companies, certification processes, and preparations for commercialization. The project aims to make a significant impact by creating more visibility in the operation of water networks. This could in turn reduce water leaks, contribute to conservation efforts during droughts, and mitigate climate change effects on water supply By providing real-time data to water utilities through the sensing-as-a-service model of PT1, we could potentially reduce the impact of the water crisis.
During the first reporting period of the project, our primary focus was the technical development of the PT1.
We successfully completed the technical development and optimisation of a new PT1 version, including manufacturing for trial purposes. The development revolved around refining the product for ease of assembly, installation, operation, and maintenance. This critical milestone established the foundation for our pilot trials and serves as a pivotal step towards validating our business model.
The first Pilot trials were initiated with selected water utilities. These trials allow us to gather essential data and feedback, validating our product and facilitating further refinement.
Throughout this period, we have striven to secure and maintain certification for our product. This certification ensures that our PT1 system complies with all relevant regulations and industry standards.
Parallel to our technical work, we embarked on the commercialisation process. This process involved preparing the supply chain, sourcing off-the-shelf components, conducting functional testing, and preparing for regulatory testing.
As we move forward, our goal is to scale up our existing PT1 v6 prototype in terms of hardware, IoT upgrades, and integration with cloud-based software. This includes conducting additional pilot testing with potential clients and making necessary adjustments before the official product launch. This strategy aligns with our overarching objective of bringing our PT1 innovation to commercial readiness.
We successfully completed the technical development and optimisation of a new PT1 version, including manufacturing for trial purposes. The development revolved around refining the product for ease of assembly, installation, operation, and maintenance. This critical milestone established the foundation for our pilot trials and serves as a pivotal step towards validating our business model.
The first Pilot trials were initiated with selected water utilities. These trials allow us to gather essential data and feedback, validating our product and facilitating further refinement.
Throughout this period, we have striven to secure and maintain certification for our product. This certification ensures that our PT1 system complies with all relevant regulations and industry standards.
Parallel to our technical work, we embarked on the commercialisation process. This process involved preparing the supply chain, sourcing off-the-shelf components, conducting functional testing, and preparing for regulatory testing.
As we move forward, our goal is to scale up our existing PT1 v6 prototype in terms of hardware, IoT upgrades, and integration with cloud-based software. This includes conducting additional pilot testing with potential clients and making necessary adjustments before the official product launch. This strategy aligns with our overarching objective of bringing our PT1 innovation to commercial readiness.
Our project's results have extended beyond the state of the art in several key ways:
Advanced Water Management Solution: Our PT1 system represents a major advancement in water management technology. By integrating harvesting technologies we have developed the world's first flow meter to overcome the industry’s limitation on power supply.
Validated Prototype: Through our rigorous testing and trials, we have been able to refine our PT1 system to a pilot ready state. Our solution is able to surpasse battery powered monitoring solutions in terms of efficiency and functionality.
Sustainable Business Model: In addition to our technical advancements, we have developed a sustainable business model that combines technical excellence with commercial viability. Our model provides a pathway for the widespread adoption of our PT1 system.
Potential impacts and key needs for further uptake and success include:
Further Research and Demonstration: We plan to continue refining our product based on feedback from our trials and ongoing research.
Access to Markets and Finance: As we begin our commercialisation process, we will need to continue expanding our market access and securing additional financing.
IPR Support: As we continue to innovate, it will be crucial to protect our intellectual property rights. This will help us maintain our competitive edge and secure our investment in research and development.
Regulatory and Standardisation Support: Ensuring our product complies with all relevant regulations and standards is essential for our success. We will remain up to date with any changes in the regulatory landscape.
Internationalisation: Expanding our business internationally will be a key goal moving forward. This will enable us to tap into new markets and increase our customer base, further driving our growth.
By addressing these key needs, we can ensure the continued success of our project and the wider adoption of our innovative PT1 system.
Advanced Water Management Solution: Our PT1 system represents a major advancement in water management technology. By integrating harvesting technologies we have developed the world's first flow meter to overcome the industry’s limitation on power supply.
Validated Prototype: Through our rigorous testing and trials, we have been able to refine our PT1 system to a pilot ready state. Our solution is able to surpasse battery powered monitoring solutions in terms of efficiency and functionality.
Sustainable Business Model: In addition to our technical advancements, we have developed a sustainable business model that combines technical excellence with commercial viability. Our model provides a pathway for the widespread adoption of our PT1 system.
Potential impacts and key needs for further uptake and success include:
Further Research and Demonstration: We plan to continue refining our product based on feedback from our trials and ongoing research.
Access to Markets and Finance: As we begin our commercialisation process, we will need to continue expanding our market access and securing additional financing.
IPR Support: As we continue to innovate, it will be crucial to protect our intellectual property rights. This will help us maintain our competitive edge and secure our investment in research and development.
Regulatory and Standardisation Support: Ensuring our product complies with all relevant regulations and standards is essential for our success. We will remain up to date with any changes in the regulatory landscape.
Internationalisation: Expanding our business internationally will be a key goal moving forward. This will enable us to tap into new markets and increase our customer base, further driving our growth.
By addressing these key needs, we can ensure the continued success of our project and the wider adoption of our innovative PT1 system.