The test results were positive for sanitizing the bottle in two seconds and feedback from the user was excellent. Following further on-site testing, the design was revised and more iterations/updates were created to advance the system, such as improved bottle chamber design, better reflectors and seals in the light chamber. A new 3D printing resin with improved thermal and mechanical performance was also used and proved to be very beneficial at this phase.
Overall the project was a success and collaboration with other Technology Gateways was key to this achievement. During the testing phase, the prototype was sent to the CAPPA Gateway in CIT who proved that the system could sanitise the bottle in two seconds and that there was no UV exposure to the user, these were the two main objectives of the project. The Design+ team also worked alongside the TSSG Gateway in IT Waterford. The team there were instrumental in helping Design+ to create a Windows-based User Interface (UI) application that increased the devices functionality. The company now has 8 x prototypes that they are using to approach multiple international breweries so that they can get funding to bring this to the next phase. Large scale manufacturing costs can now be calculated and the true potential can be explored.
Squadron Six Aerospace Limited