Transfer of knowledge proves instrumental to securing innovation
Published Thursday 12th May 2011
An innovative new valve for the oil and gas industry by industrial instruments experts Orange Instruments Ltd of Northampton has been developed with the assistance of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) through The University of Northampton.
The KTP project, involving Mr Espen Svennevik from the School of Science and Technology, successfully spearheaded the research, design and implementation of the latest microprocessor technology - enabling Orange Instruments to lead the way in the monitoring of specialist hydraulic valve systems.
Managing Director of Orange Instruments, Martin Bellamy, explained:
The KTP has facilitated the move away from stand alone to integrated, autonomous systems, giving us a cutting edge in the market place.
Through the KTP, Orange Instruments has succeeded in enhancing its programme expertise with the development of this new product. With it predicted to increase the company's profits by almost £50k over the next three years, we are very grateful to The University of Northampton for enabling us to maximise the benefits of the programme.
Martin Bellamy
The KTP programme allows businesses with a long-term strategic challenge to access the academic resources of The University of Northampton in order to improve their competitiveness, productivity and performance. The required techniques and innovations are then embedded into the business by a specifically recruited graduate.
Barri Stirrup, KTP Co-ordinator at The University of Northampton, said:
The partnership with Orange Instruments clearly demonstrates the benefits of knowledge transfer between the University and commercial organisations. The KTP has helped Orange Instruments to maintain its reputation as a world leader of specialist instruments to the energy industry.
Throughout the KTP contract, businesses have regular access to the University's wealth of cutting-edge resources and a team of specialist academics who use their expertise to advise on the project and help to supervise the graduate.
Through the KTP, the University has provided academic expertise in real time embedded systems engineering and software development and we're delighted that the collaboration with Orange Instruments has lead to such a successful innovation.
Barri Stirrup
There are opportunities within numerous sectors for a KTP to add expertise, innovation and value to any business. Business sectors qualifying for assistance from the programme include electrical systems, electronics, high value manufacturing, food and drink, information and communications, creative industries, healthcare and transport.
To find out more about how your organisation can benefit from a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with The University of Northampton, contact the Business and Commercial Services section on 01604 893300, email b2b@northampton.ac.uk or visit www.northampton.ac.uk/business-community.