DIFFER, the Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research, is not just a passive player in the fusion energy sector; it’s a dynamic force actively shaping the industry’s future. By focusing on valorisation, DIFFER is transforming scientific knowledge into tangible economic and societal benefits. This approach is not just about publishing papers; it’s about creating a ripple effect of innovation.
DIFFER’s involvement in the Big Science ecosystem is a testament to its strategic prowess. By participating in international scientific infrastructures like ITER and DEMO, DIFFER is not only advancing fusion technology but also fostering a symbiotic relationship with industry. This is where the magic of geo-return happens. Companies that engage with DIFFER’s infrastructure gain technological capabilities that can be leveraged in other markets. It’s a win-win scenario where scientific progress fuels industrial growth.
But DIFFER doesn’t stop at geo-return. It’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology transfer. Take, for instance, the collaboration with Exploform. The Dutch company, with DIFFER’s support, developed the capability to form large metal artefacts for the ITER vacuum vessel. Although Exploform didn’t secure the ITER contract, the new competency it gained led to the production of a complex part for the Airbus A380 cockpit. This is valorisation in action—taking knowledge from one domain and applying it to another, creating economic value in the process.
Another striking example is DIFFER’s work on remote maintenance in fusion reactors. The technology developed for ITER’s hot cell maintenance found a new application in care robotics. The haptic-master slave system initially designed for fusion reactors is now being adapted for the ROSE care robotics system, assisting in the care of the elderly. This is not just about transferring technology; it’s about transferring competency, about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in both domains.
DIFFER’s approach to technology transfer is methodical. It starts at the system level, identifying specific functions that can be transferred from one domain to another. This requires collaboration with domain specialists and navigating market aspects like IP protection, fundraising, and commercialisation. It’s a complex process, but DIFFER is proving that it’s not just serendipity; it’s a system that can be understood and facilitated.
DIFFER’s work in this area is bound to shape the development of the energy sector. By fostering a culture of valorisation, DIFFER is encouraging a more dynamic relationship between scientific research and industry. This could lead to faster technological advancements, more innovative applications, and a more robust energy sector. It’s a model that other research institutes could learn from, a beacon of what’s possible when science and industry collaborate.
DIFFER’s work also underscores the importance of investing in research infrastructure. With its in-house capabilities, DIFFER can attract industry partners, reduce risks, and lower upfront costs. This makes the process of pushing technological boundaries more accessible and less daunting. It’s a model that could inspire other countries and institutions to invest more in research infrastructure, fostering a global ecosystem of innovation.
Moreover, DIFFER’s approach to technology transfer challenges the traditional notion of scientific research. It’s not just about discovering new knowledge; it’s about applying that knowledge in ways that create economic and societal value. This could lead to a more impactful and relevant research landscape, where scientists are not just publishers of papers but also creators of value.
