Tidal energy technology
A research team within the Centre for Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Energy at The Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen has developed new technology (“The Snail”) which enables a post, mast or other structure to be supported in locations such as river estuaries and coastal waters. Adaptive hydrodynamics are used to exploit the flow of water such that, the faster the flow, the more The Snail adheres to the bed of the sea/river (instead of being washed away). Where conventionally there might be risk of the equipment or object being washed away, RGU’s technology exploits the flow of water to add strength and rigidity in applications such as:-
Monitoring of offshore wind farm sites.
Mounting of tidal power generation turbines.
This project is funded by Scottish Enterprise "Proof of Concept Fund".Key Benefits
- The benefits of the technology are:-
- allows equipment to be located in fast flowing water without expensive piling
- the faster the water flow the stronger the adherence to the sea or river bed
- easy and cheap recovery for maintenance of equipment
- allows equipment to be installed in shallow water not currently considered as a marine energy site.
Applications
- Feedback received suggests that key candidates for the next stage of market research for the Snail technology would include:
- companies already involved in offshore wind and/or wave energy;
- oil & gas operators - particularly those who have already applied resources to development of renewable energy businesses;
- electricity generation and supply companies.
IP Status
The Robert Gordon University wholly owns that intellectual property from the project and it is protected by a patent application. It is intended to bring this technology to market through a spin-out company.
Market Potential
The primary market sector will be in the marine renewable sector although there are other sectors which require subsea equipment including oil and gas, marine scouring and water treatment.
A spin out company is to be developed from the University to exploit this technology.
Consultancy Website
www.rgu.ac.uk/cree/general/page.cfm?pge=10769
If you would like further information about
this opportunity please fill out the form below. Your enquiry will
be passed on to the relevant University who will respond to you directly.
