The NIR-PERFECT business innovation project concerns the use of an already developed Near Infra-Red (NIR) Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Inspection & Monitoring system for composite materials used in combination with an embedded dye. The NIR-PERFECT system is targeted towards manufacturers and end users of composite materials as well as NDT service providers for in-line and in-field inspection and detection of defects.
The NIR-PERFECT innovation action project objectives are to: 1. Prepare a patent application for a daughter patent 2. Prepare a robust business case for the NIR-PERFECT NDT inspection & monitoring system for composite assessment 3. To validate against end-user requirements 4. Determine supply partner for dye and 5. Determine target end use applications & supply chain partners.
The NIR-PERFECT project consisted of three main tasks: (i). Business Plan Generation (ii) Technical Validation and (iii) Project management. The main task (business plan generation) explored and evaluated products and services, market analysis, strategy & implementation, management and financial planning. Technical validation work was performed to assess system capabilities with respect to the end user requirements.
The outcomes of the NIR-PERFECT innovation action project are: 1. Filing & granting of a daughter patent (US8933405) and an additional patent (GB1506676) 2. Robust business case prepared 3. NIR-PERFECT system validated by a sector specialist and an assessment made on system capabilities 4. Supply chain partner for dye and electronic components established and 5. Target markets of marine and wind established.
