DIGIMOTOR

The overall vision of the DIGIMOTOR project is to prototype, pilot and commercialise our digital distribution valve system (DDVS), enabling manufacturers of fluid power systems to create High Torque Low Speed motors with efficiencies comparable to those achieved by electrical motors connected to mechanical gearboxes. The aim is to become the supplier of choice for key enabling technology for all forms of fluid power systems. Problem to address: Fluid power systems (FPS) use fluids under pressure to generate, transmit and control power, and is subdivided by the type of fluid used: Hydraulics, using a liquid such as oil or water and Pneumatics, using a gas, usually air. Hydraulic FPS are widely used because they are robust, reliable, have inherent component cooling, 3-4 times higher power density and less cost, than it is possible using electrical based power systems (electrical motors and mechanical gear boxes). However, they suffer from overall low energy efficiencies, typically in the range of 60-70% (especially at low speed or stopped under large loads) and are noisy, whereas electrical solutions can achieve 90-95% depending on conditions and are comparatively quiet. Thus, as fuel costs and concerns of CO2 emissions have risen, manufacturers of hydraulic motors are seeking new technologies to address these limitations. The aim of the project is to move our current prototype technology to full commercialisation onto the global markets. Our technology has a major market potential compared to current state-of-the-art technology. To increase our commercial success and impact, we have created a Strategic Business Plan as a detailed roadmap, describing all necessary activities we need to undertake to ensure a successful market introduction. Now we seek to develop our Commercialisation Plan, which will form an important part of the final Business Innovation Plan, to be created in this Phase 2 project.