Portsmouth University MareNet event highlights technology and innovation capabilities available for marine companies in the region
Over 50 delegates enjoyed a full evening discussing innovation and technology in the marine sector at March’s MareNet event held at the University of Portsmouth.
The event began with a tour of the University's state of the art facilities which offers highly advanced capabilities for marine companies including rapid prototyping and manufacturing, composites and materials testing and metrology. A number of high profile marine companies were given as examples of using the universities facilities for their product development, prototype design and engineering solutions.
Celebrating 100 years this summer, speakers from the University of Portsmouth discussed their unique capabilities as well as their desire to work with SME's in the marine sector to develop innovation, research, design and manufacturing projects.
They also highlighted their experience in attracting funding to assist small companies with collaborative projects and a number of well known marine brands were given as examples. These included the development of yacht deck equipment, nano-gelcoats, next generation epoxy resins, new yacht designs and special marine adhesives.
Professor Nick Bennett talked about the university's rapid tooling capabilities which can enable marine companies to develop new products at a fraction of the cost and in less than a week; compared to around 8 weeks in the Far East.
Dr Jasper Graham-Jones talked about the University's Marine Sports Technology Degree, which gives graduates practical, relevant experience enabling them to be productive employees from their first day. Modules on the course include CAD, marine technology, naval architecture, composite materials, small ship surveying, contract law and patents, business planning, marketing, leisure skills. In addition, all students are involved in company placements to give them as much work experience as possible.
Martin Lloyd talked about the University's Purple Door initiative which offers a One-Stop-Shop for marine businesses covering student placements, graduate employment, Research and Development projects and funding, business solutions and knowledge transfer projects.
To view all the presentations from the event please go to www.marinesoutheast.co.uk and search on the MareNet page. For more information about Purple Door contact Martin Lloyd , Innovation & Enterprise Sector Manager on 023 9284 2972 or 07921 093041, or email Martin.lloyd@port.ac.uk
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