The transfer of a new laser welding technology exemplifies the transnational impact of the IRC Thematic Groups.
Laser welding is fast, and produces results of consistently high quality.
But the equipment is expensive and the technique requires careful joint preparation and alignment, adding significantly to process costs. We arranged some of the novelty verification work, and helped them to prepare and submit both British and international patent applications. Then we needed to find partners to manufacture the new laser heads, and end-users willing to licence the technology. A new engineering company was set up to build the equipment in the UK, and the IRC negotiated a technology transfer agreement with a German manufacturer, which is producing the laser components. The biggest hurdles have been the cost and complexity of securing adequate patent protection, and the confusion caused by differences between the legal systems of different Member States.