LEAPS-INNOV D6.7 - Report on Knowledge Transfer (KT) and Technology Transfer (TT)

Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 1 of 6 Project information Project full title LEAPS pilot to foster open innovation for accelerator-based light sources in Europe Project acronym LEAPS-INNOV Grant agreement no. 101004728 Instrument Research and Innovation Action (RIA) Duration 01/04/2021 – 30/09/2025 Website Deliverable information Deliverable no. 6.7 Deliverable title Report on Knowledge Transfer (KT) and Technology Transfer (TT) Deliverable responsible Related WorkPackage/Task WP6 Type (e.g. Report; other) report Author(s) Antonio Bonucci, Marco Peloi Dissemination level Document Version 1 Date Download page Document information Version no. Date Author(s) Comment Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 2 of 6 Table of Contents Introduction 2 Key Principles for Effective KT and TT 2 Difference Between Knowledge Transfer and Technology Transfer 3 Initiatives Promoting KT and TT 4 Current Practices and Networks for Bilateral KT and TT 5 Recommendations for Strengthening KT and TT 5 Conclusion 6 Introduction The LEAPS-INNOV project, particularly Work Group 6 focused on the development of undulators within the LEAPS consortium, underscores the critical importance of Knowledge Transfer (KT) and Technology Transfer (TT) as drivers of innovation and collaboration. Effective KT and TT are essential for fostering cutting-edge advancements and establishing productive partnerships between research institutions and industry stakeholders. Key Principles for Effective KT and TT 1. Bilateral Approach KT and TT must be recognized as bilateral processes that require direct interaction between research teams and technology providers. These processes are inherently context-specific and cannot be effectively managed solely through centralized mechanisms by the consortium. Instead, the consortium should act as a facilitator, creating an environment where partnerships can thrive. 2. Role of the Consortium The consortium’s primary role in KT and TT should focus on: o Organizing dedicated workshops where ongoing projects can be showcased. Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 3 of 6 o Inviting companies to present their technology platforms and capabilities, enabling mutual understanding of potential collaborations. 3. Promoting Low-TRL Knowledge Transfer For technologies at a low Technology Readiness Level (TRL), early-stage knowledge transfer is particularly valuable. Engaging new technology providers at this stage equips them with the expertise needed to participate effectively in future calls and contribute to the development of innovative solutions. Difference Between Knowledge Transfer and Technology Transfer Knowledge Transfer (KT) refers to the sharing of expertise, skills, and know-how between research organizations and industry stakeholders. It often involves the exchange of tacit knowledge through training, workshops, or collaborative research. KT is critical at early stages of innovation, especially for low-TRL technologies, where foundational understanding is essential for progress. Technology Transfer (TT), on the other hand, focuses on the movement of tangible technologies or innovations from research environments to commercial applications. TT often includes licensing agreements, patents, or the provision of prototypes ready for industrial use. In low-TRL contexts, it is crucial to secure know-how through intellectual property (IP) protections or knowledge transfer contracts. These mechanisms ensure that the knowledge and innovations remain safeguarded while enabling structured collaboration with potential industry partners. Contracts and IP agreements also provide clarity on ownership and usage rights, fostering trust and reducing risks for both parties. One of the main IP transfer mechanisms in the context of relationships with suppliers can be granting the right to use drawings that are copyrighted by the facility to the technology provider. This facilitates the dissemination of technology within the Big Science community, allowing companies to save on design costs in a positive exchange that benefits both the companies and the broader Big Science ecosystem. Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 4 of 6 Initiatives Promoting KT and TT An exemplary initiative that fosters KT and TT is the Technology Transfer Track at the Big Science Business Forum (BSBF) 2024. This track enables research infrastructures and companies attending the forum to share and seek technologies with potential cross-market applications, either in Big Science or other markets, while fostering partnerships for financing and further development. A key feature of this initiative is the use of poster presentations to highlight technologies and promote bilateral collaborations. For example, the following cases serve as excellent models of knowledge and technology transfer: 1. High-Temperature Superconducting Undulators1 This project utilises top-quality RE-Ba-Cu-O bulks, created through Single Direction Melted Growth and precisely cut via EDM wire erosion. These bulks, embedded in copper discs, are arranged in a staggered structure to generate a powerful alternating undulator field. Holmium poles interposed between the discs enhance and finely tune the magnetic field, aiming at a phase error below one degree. 2. Cryogenic Permanent Magnet Undulator (CPMU12)2 This project pushes the boundaries of current insertion device (ID) technology, offering significant benefits to synchrotrons and free electron lasers through the development of a new cryogenic permanent magnet undulator (CPMU). By exploring short-period undulators with unprecedented combinations of compact periods and high magnetic fields, this innovative CPMU represents a major leap forward. A 1meter-long prototype, designed with a 12 mm period, is going to showcase its potential for groundbreaking performance in the field. 1 https://www.bsbf2024.org/technology-transfer-track-posters/paul-scherrer-institute-technology-transfertrack-posters/ 2 https://www.bsbf2024.org/technology-transfer-track-posters/synchrotron-soleil-technology-transfer-trackposters/ Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 5 of 6 The initiative of the technology transfer track was applied also for other technologies developed in LEAPS-INNOV, for instance XAFS-DET: Germanium-based X-ray Spectroscopy Detector System3 and Data reduction for X-ray science4 . These examples underscore how structured initiatives like the Technology Transfer Track can facilitate meaningful exchanges and foster new opportunities for innovation. Current Practices and Networks for Bilateral KT and TT Within the context of Work Group 6, bilateral KT and TT are already occurring through established networks and collaborative channels, including: • Project-based collaborations between research institutions and industry partners, tailored to specific undulator development challenges. • Knowledge-sharing initiatives that leverage existing consortia networks to link researchers with emerging technology providers. • Targeted matchmaking efforts that bring together project leads and companies with complementary expertise. Recommendations for Strengthening KT and TT 1. Expand Workshop Initiatives: Increase the frequency and scope of workshops to allow broader participation from both research and industry stakeholders. This provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge and showcase both ongoing projects and commercial solutions. 2. Enable Early Involvement of New Technology Providers: Facilitate access to training and support for new entrants, particularly for low-TRL projects, ensuring they are equipped to participate in upcoming funding opportunities. 3. Develop a Network Map: Create and maintain a dynamic map of existing and potential stakeholders to streamline matchmaking efforts for bilateral collaborations. 3 https://www.bsbf2024.org/technology-transfer-track-posters/diamond-light-source-soleil-technologytransfer-track-posters/ 4 https://www.bsbf2024.org/technology-transfer-track-posters/desy-technology-transfer-track-posters/ Deliverable no. D6.7 Page 6 of 6 4. Evaluate and Share Best Practices: Regularly assess the outcomes of KT and TT initiatives to identify and disseminate best practices across the consortium. Conclusion While the LEAPS consortium provides an essential platform for coordinating efforts, the success of KT and TT in the development of undulators ultimately relies on bilateral engagement between researchers and industry players. The consortium’s role as a facilitator of workshops, poster sessions, and networking opportunities is crucial, but real progress stems from active and tailored collaborations between individual stakeholders. By embracing this approach and drawing inspiration from initiatives like the BSBF Technology Transfer Track and the highlighted examples, LEAPS-INNOV can continue to lead the way in innovative and collaborative technology development.