Tutkimustulosten kaupallistaminen ja Proof of Concept Matti Saarinen, CEO Helmee Imaging Oy

Transcription

1 Tutkimustulosten kaupallistaminen ja Proof of Concept Matti Saarinen, CEO Helmee Imaging Oy

2 2 Helmee Imaging Ltd. Head quarters in Tampere, Finland Originally a Spin-off from VTT National Research Center of Finland Specialization in machine vision for glossy, high reflective objects Software Optics Electronics Automation

3 3 Problem State of the art machine vision systems cannot inspect glossy objects due to the fact that only a reflections on the object s surface can be detected, not the actual object The problem occurs in manufacturing process of tableware, bathroom mixers, car light reflectors, artificial joints, chrome plated handles, etc. Currently the quality inspection of these objects are done manually

4 4 CSD-SA-501 Machine vision based system includes 3 cameras, 3 data projectors, special optics and a PC for processing, connectivity and user interface Enables shape measurement and defect detection of high curvature and glossy surfaces (patented) The system is able to accurately calculate object s shape (XYZ) and surface properties Object size mm Resolution up to (100 x 100 x 1) µm (XYZ)

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6 6 Customer benefits Increased capacity in inspection (3 sec. / part) Cost reduction in manufacturing by replacing manual labor Optimal, adjustable and precise quality level Automatic reporting and tracing System can be used on-line in manufacturing process or offline in a measurement laboratory

7 Birth of Innovation 03/12/ Case Oras (2001) 2. Invention notification (2007) 3. VTT 25 k market research (2011) 4. VTT 50 k POC (2011) -> Rejected 5. Patent application TEKES TUTL /3 for prototyping 1/3 planning of commercialization

8 8 3DomeLED project plan WP1 Dome illumination (100 k ) Dome illumination development Control electronics WP2 Imaging setup (90 k ) Stereo imaging & software 3D imaging software (stereo + structured light) Calibration Defect analysis Technical part total 190k

9 9 3DomeLED project plan WP3 - Market research (40 k ) Market potential (VTT Business Intelligence) Patent landscape (BI) Freedom-to-operate (BI) WP4 Commercialisation (60 k ) Exploitation plan Feasibility plan for spin-off WP5 Reporting and dissemination (10 k ) Business part total 100k Project total 300k

10 Lessons learned 03/12/ In general TUTL is a good instrument, but different Is TUTL right way to go? Maturity level of the innovation? Not a follow-up project for long research history You need a value proposition, vision, punch-line, elevator pitch etc. The idea needs to be sellable to an investor Do you have time to focus? Business know-how is mandatory in the steering group! Listen carefully to all comments, but: You need to have your own, strong vision Find out why the nay-sayers are saying no. Is it BS or do you need to learn? TUTL is very motivating, if you do it for the right purpose Long hours are easy, if you build your own company One rule of the funding was funny though. You are not allowed to make a business plan (yeah, right...)

11 After the TUTL 03/12/ Finalization of the Business Plan ;-) Helmee Imaging Oy founded by three VTT researchers Seed round negotiations took 5 months and ended happily on Got money for two year (leveraged with helpful TEKES)

12 Present day 03/12/ Focus has been in verification of the business model. Also: Development Productization Sales and marketing Patent has been granted Applications in several countries New patent applications to support New financing round open Expanding marketing and sales in China, North-America Office to Germany, Hong Kong, UK, US Hot customer segment in chrome-plated (plastic) parts Car industry Bathroom appliances House hold appliances

13 Being an entrepreneur (all the clichés) 13 Use of time Flexibility of the mind Ability to negotiate Freedom & responsibility Go to market True nature of your team members Business is a full-contact sport Entrepreneur looks the world differently Tampere is good place to build your company Suomi tarvitsee lisää yrittäjiä

14 14 OPTIMAL QUALITY