Periodic Reporting for period 1 - TRILO-BWTS (Disruptive and patented microfluidic technology purification for ship ballast water, being maintenancefree, eliminating clogging of filters and providing significant life-cycle cost savings)
Période du rapport: 2016-06-01 au 2016-11-30
The motivation and desired outcome of the overall TRILO-BWTS project is to bring to market a system for purification of ship ballast water based on TM’s patented microfluidic technology for removal of small particles and microorganisms. The system will be cheaper and more efficient than existing solutions, avoiding clogging of filters and the need for chemicals / consumables. The system will be compact and have no moving parts, leading also to more reliable and ‘maintenance free’ operations, providing energy savings and lower life-time costs.
* Task 1: Market and competitor analysis
Review of actions taken and deliverables: The original plan was followed based on a combination of a top down (market reports etc.) and bottom up (interviews, industry meetings etc.) approach. We highlight in particular a visit to the SMM conference in Hamburg in September, the leading international maritime fair. Market developments during the project period have been highly conducive to the TRILO-BWTS value proposition, with new regulation being ratified and resulting in an expected additional BWTS market pull. While concerns remain from shipowners over costs and the approval of systems, the BWTS suppliers stand to benefit.
* Task 2: Cost assessment
Review of actions taken and deliverables: Detailed calculations have been firmed up in a financial model that ties together the technology roadmap, the foreseen organizational build up and capital needs and sources. The model with detailed cost breakdowns and dynamic assessments has been actively used also with prospective financial investors during the project period.
* Task 3: Detailed business plan
Review of actions taken and deliverables: During the SME Instrument Phase I project period, we studied the feasibility to move our technology from TRL6 to TRL9. The work done on the business plan provided significant synergies also for dialogues with investors, interaction with prospective customers and for other purposes.
* Task 4: IPR analysis and strategy
Review of actions taken and deliverables: The SME Instrument phase 1 grant has enabled a more focused review of TMs IPR position. Our position with respect to the company’s patents is well documented and ‘freedom to operate’ has been re-confirmed
* Task 5: Shipboard piloting design and regulatory feasibility
Review of actions taken and deliverables: In addition to the broad activities highlighted in the original application, we have gathered comprehensive documentation from two shipping companies for specific piloting activity.
* Task 6: Detailed Phase II development plan
Review of actions taken and deliverables: Significant work has been done to gather input. The project has progressed in line with the ambitious plan laid out in the SME Instrument phase 1 application and the overall objective remains intact.