EIVA and SH Group’s ROTV Passes FAT for UK MoD
A groundbreaking hydrographic survey solution developed for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has successfully passed Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), marking a significant milestone in maritime technology. This containerised, remotely operated towed vehicle (ROTV) system, the first of its kind, was created by Danish subsea engineering specialist EIVA just six months after securing the contract.
The new survey solution, which features a modular design, allows for hydrographic surveys using a variety of acoustic sensors and instruments. This innovative approach enables rapid deployment from various host platforms, offering unprecedented flexibility and efficiency.
Christian Thomsen, CEO of EIVA, highlighted the achievement, stating, “The rapid development of this solution demonstrates the power of collaboration with key industry players. Our combined expertise has opened new avenues for both defence and maritime sectors.”
The solution incorporates several advanced components: SH Group’s 20’ Cube container module, which includes a launch and recovery system for EIVA’s ScanFish L ROTV. The ROTV is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including Sonardyne’s SPRINT-Nav Mini hybrid INS/DVL and Voyis’ Observer Pro optical camera and Insight Pro laser scanner. Additionally, the container houses two dedicated computer workstations running EIVA’s NaviSuite software, designed to streamline data processing and analysis.
Lieutenant Commander Mark Butcher of the Royal Navy expressed enthusiasm about the development, stating, “Following our visit to EIVA for the FAT, we are extremely pleased with the system. The EIVA team has delivered a solution that will enhance our survey capabilities and contribute significantly to our Future Military Data Gathering programme. We are eager to proceed with commission testing and training with our specialist Hydrographic teams.”
EIVA is collaborating with Forcys, a global maritime defence company based in Yateley and a sister company within the Covelya Group, to ensure the solution meets the current needs of navies for portability, flexibility, scalability, and standardisation.
ACE Secures AS9100, Eyes Aerospace Growth
Advanced Chemical Etching (ACE), a leading manufacturer based in Telford, Shropshire, has achieved AS9100 quality accreditation, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey. The company, which employs 70 people at its state-of-the-art facility, received the prestigious certification after a rigorous audit process completed in under five months.
Under the leadership of Quality Manager Ian Radford, ACE refined its quality management system and implemented problem-solving teams across its engineering disciplines to meet the stringent AS9100 standards. This achievement is underscored by ACE’s impressive performance metrics, including over 97% on-time delivery and 99.5% first-time right rates.
Chris Ball, Executive Director at ACE, expressed his enthusiasm for the accreditation: “Securing AS9100 is a major accomplishment, reflecting our commitment to the highest quality standards. The collective effort of our team was instrumental in achieving this, and the certification opens new opportunities for us both domestically and internationally.”
With the AS9100 accreditation in place, ACE plans to boost its aerospace sector activities, aiming for an additional £1 million in turnover. The company currently provides precision components to 25 aerospace clients, producing parts for undercarriages, interiors, and engines, including heat exchangers, actuators, and ice protection systems.
Ian Radford emphasized the ongoing commitment to quality: “We are not resting on our laurels. To further our continuous improvement, we’ve appointed Ryan Williams as Assistant Quality Manager. His expertise in lean manufacturing will enhance our internal auditing and support our strategic goals.”
ACE’s expertise extends beyond aerospace, serving industries such as Formula One, electronics, and medical sectors. The company’s diverse portfolio includes manufacturing components like battery interconnects, fuel cell plates, and cooling elements.
With anticipated sales reaching £9 million this year and a strong pipeline of interest, ACE is poised for continued growth and is looking to expand its workforce to meet increasing demand.
ST Engineering Antycip, MAK, and Cervus at MSPO 2024
ST Engineering Antycip will showcase its cutting-edge multidomain solutions at MSPO 2024, the International Defence Industry Exhibition, held in Kielce, Poland from September 3rd to 6th. The company will demonstrate advanced simulation technologies in collaboration with MAK Technologies, CogSim Technologies, and Cervus Defence, addressing the dynamic needs of modern defence operations.
Attendees at ST Engineering Antycip’s booth will experience live demonstrations of their multidomain solutions, which aim to transform defence operations through enhanced interoperability. Visitors will have the chance to engage with experts from ST Engineering Antycip and its partners to discuss how these solutions can meet their specific requirements and explore potential collaborations.
One of the highlights will be the presentation of CogSim Technologies’ Tactical Data Link suite. Distributed by ST Engineering Antycip in Europe, this suite integrates and manages real-time tactical data across various platforms, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making by bridging synthetic training and operational networks.
In partnership with Cervus Defence, ST Engineering Antycip will showcase HIVE, an advanced analytics engine designed to optimize operational efficiency and strategic planning through detailed data analysis. Additionally, the Forge, a digital decision support tool developed by Cervus for the British Army, will be presented, offering enhanced data processing and visualization capabilities.
ST Engineering Antycip and MAK Technologies will also demonstrate the MAK ONE suite, a comprehensive solution for simulation and training across air, land, and sea environments. The MAK ONE suite supports multidomain operations with immersive training, experimentation tools, and wargaming capabilities, aimed at improving operational readiness.
MSPO 2024 will serve as a key platform for ST Engineering Antycip to highlight its contributions to the defence industry and connect with industry leaders and peers.
Airframe Designs Invests in Advanced Moisture Tech
Aerospace specialist Airframe Designs has enhanced its manufacturing capabilities with the acquisition of a sophisticated moisture analyser, aimed at elevating process quality and meeting rigorous aerospace standards.
Garry Sellick, Additive Manufacturing Manager at Airframe Designs, highlighted the significance of this investment: “The new moisture analyser allows us to precisely measure and control the moisture content in our materials before production begins. This ensures that our parts meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry and helps reduce waste by improving our initial process accuracy. This advancement also supports our goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.”
The moisture analyser aligns with aerospace industry specification AMS7100 and will be utilized across all materials processed and 3D printed for aircraft interiors. This latest investment follows Airframe Designs’ recent upgrades, including the addition of a second 3D printing machine—a Stratasys Fortus 450—along with a new five-axis milling machine and advanced resin printing technology. These enhancements are designed to boost capability and improve part quality for the company’s expanding customer base.
Known for its expertise in engineering solutions for mechanical structures, Airframe Designs excels in design, modifications, repairs, and reverse engineering, complemented by advanced additive manufacturing services. The company integrates polymer additive manufacturing with 3D scanning and modelling to tackle complex engineering challenges in aviation, defence, and other sectors such as space, nuclear, motorsport, and rail.
Recent projects include designing and manufacturing 3D printed tooling fixtures for sensor installations on military aircraft fuselages, integrating systems into heavy-lift drone platforms, and developing operator consoles for special mission aircraft. The company also contributes to the conceptual design of uncrewed air systems and test rigs for electric vehicle propulsion systems.
With its continuous investment in cutting-edge technology, Airframe Designs remains committed to delivering high-quality engineering solutions and meeting the evolving needs of its diverse client base.
AstroAgency Sets Up Hub at Harwell Space Cluster
AstroAgency has established a new hub at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, the UK’s largest space cluster. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the company, which has also announced five new strategic clients: Hydrosat, Catalyst, University of Edinburgh, STFC, and Fire Arrow.
Founded in 2019, AstroAgency has built a strong track record, supporting over 70 commercial and government organizations worldwide in marketing, business development, and market support. Its client roster includes prominent names like Spire, Clear Space, Nova Space, the UK Space Agency, Austrade, RAL Space, and the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centres UK.
Daniel Smith, founder of AstroAgency, commented on the new developments: “Our team’s extensive experience in the space sector enables us to understand and address industry-specific challenges effectively. Establishing a presence at Harwell and welcoming new clients align perfectly with our 2024 expansion goals, both locally and internationally.”
AstroAgency’s new base at Harwell’s Space Cluster, which houses over 100 companies and 1,400 employees, reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging space industry advancements for broader societal benefits. The Harwell Space Cluster, contributing £5.7 billion to the UK economy, is a hub for leading space organizations and offers a dynamic environment for innovation.
Gemma Wilson, Harwell Space Cluster Development Manager, welcomed AstroAgency to the campus: “We are thrilled to have AstroAgency join the Harwell Space Cluster. The diversity of organizations here, spanning space and related sectors, will benefit from their expertise. We look forward to their contributions to our vibrant ecosystem.”
At its new Harwell location, AstroAgency will continue to enhance its role in advancing satellite-driven data applications across various industries, including energy, maritime, finance, and conservation.
That’s a wrap folks, enjoyed the weather.