Issue link: https://htpgraphics.uberflip.com/i/1385717
COMMERCIALISATION 73 UNIQUENESS // Ice Nine Ltd is closely linked with The University of Manchester, offering access to the newest and most novel robotic solutions to difficult challenges. Unlike current providers of robotic technologies, Ice Nine Ltd is small and agile, capable of offering bespoke/ adaptable, cost-effective solutions to the industry. Much of the technology within our robotic platforms is modular, offering the ability to change the chassis, application, and function of each platform, quickly and efficiently. The systems have also been tried and tested at multiple demonstration facilities and active deployments on nuclear sites. This is not common experience for new businesses to possess and leads to exciting possibilities and a niche market position. FUTURE ASPIRATIONS // It is our aim to develop Ice Nine Ltd into the "de- facto" hazardous inspection robotic platform service provider. Through development of new and novel platforms, adaptations to current systems, and service & maintenance contracts with operators, we will offer a complete pipeline of robotic technology to aid in a variety of sectors. RAIN PROGRESS // RAIN has enabled me to develop innovative robotic solutions for some of the most hazardous places on earth, whilst also funding active on-site deployments. RAIN offers real-world impact from its research, which has been incredibly rewarding and something I feel is too often ignored when focussing purely on theoretical research! Discussions around the licensing of various robotic technology into Ice Nine Ltd has taken place, whilst involvement in programmes such as Innovate UK's ICURe NxNW (Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research, North by North-West) has led to applications for Innovate UK funding grants, collaborations with other SMEs and potential private investment. Ice Nine has also taken part in an Innovate UK scheme to develop a disinfection robotic platform as part of the COVID-19 response, highlighting the cross-industry impact of robotics research. Attendance at various cross-sector industry meetings and events, as well as applications for United Utilities Innovation Lab and RAEng enterprise fellowships have led to a wide network and a range of possibilities during and post RAIN. A core-team has been developed, with the commercial know-how and business acumen built up to facilitate a functioning business. Focused on the industrial success and longevity we are exploring potential commercial relationships and what format they will take over the coming months and years. Primarily, we will focus on radiation surveys, monitoring and inspections of nuclear decommissioning sites, but we will also explore civil engineering inspections, crawl spaces and more. After seeking investment, funding, and grants throughout 2021, we will look to grow and fulfil contracts from a range of customers, expanding throughout the coming three to five years.