Intelligent Building Processes Ltd

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"The success of applying for our patent application was a tremendous achievement with Brian’s guidance and now we are moving forward with further support in the field of testing and bespoke machinery. Brian has always given us valuable advice every step of the way and we are grateful for the continued support from LIN." Penny Dineen, Director

Category: New Product Development

Business Overview

The company was formed in 2010 to develop a new concept in building construction.  Under the direction of highly experienced architect husband and wife team the company have solved and perfected a method of producing an eco thermal architectural element.

The product is a dry fix building block / system from which a fully finished wall can be constructed from a single skin that does not need plaster, render or any additional decorating inside or out. Within the construction industry there is great demand, expectation and competition to produce such an element and to date there is nothing like it on the market.

A series of blocks have been designed to accommodate all situations during the construction of a building.

Regenerate’s role:

The company was introduced to Regenerate’s Lancashire Innovation Network by Lancashire County Developments Ltd for support to protect the intellectual property and for assistance in the product development.

Lancashire Innovation Network (LIN) assisted with patenting the product and process having identified an attorney with full understanding of the many inventive steps encompassed in the invention.

The project required the highest levels of inventiveness and creativity to convert the concept and overcome the tight production tolerances vital to the product’s success.

To this end the company has developed bespoke equipment and machines to produce the block. The final operation in the manufacturing process is currently being proved and a special purpose machine has been designed. LIN is supporting the costs of having the highly specialised components produced to assemble this machine to finish a batch of proto type blocks which will be used to prove the whole concept.

Impact:

An initial trial order has been secured for a demonstration development in the middle east which should stimulate significant business. The company’s aim is to establish a manufacturing plant in Preston to enable them to efficiently produce the current and forecast orders. It is anticipated that this will create 1 – 4 new jobs within 2 years.

Continued Support:

The product development has been very successful and LIN is currently assisting with the development of the final piece of bespoke manufacturing equipment.  Alongside this we are indentifying support from local universities to carryout testing to quantify the load bearing capability and thermal insulation properties of the element.