Challenges Focus on Quantification, Measurements of Metals

Two challenges posted today (30 June) on InnoCentive seek solutions to problems involving quantification or measurements of properties of metals. InnoCentive, in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a company that conducts challenge competitions for sponsors, who for these challenges have decided to remain anonymous.

One of today’s challenges seeks a method for in-line quantification and real-time reporting of ferrous fibers (60 mm x 1 mm) in flows of a semi-solid and heterogeneous matrix. In the development of composite materials, measurements of quantities and mixing of fibers are important to the functioning of a semi-solid matrix. Therefore a quick way of measuring fibers in the matrix, either before or during dispensing, is required.

This challenge has an award of $25,000, and contestants need to submit a written proposal to be considered. The winner will be expected to grant the sponsor exclusive intellectual property rights for the proposed solution, but a licensing agreement will be considered if a complete transfer or rights is not possible. The deadline for applications is 30 August 2011.

The second of today’s challenges seeks indicators or markers of curvature in thin wires of high-carbon steel during movement. In this application, thin steel wires are moving at 10 to 100 meters per minute (m/min), with velocities reaching as high as 1,000 m/min, and are under tension. Curvature of the wires cannot be measured directly, thus the sponsor needs methods to detect markers or indicators of curvature. Solutions from fields such as metallurgy, surface science, electronics, and physics are welcome.

The winner of this challenge will receive an award of $30,000, and a written proposal is required. The sponsor asks that the winner grant a non-exclusive license to practice the submitted solution. The deadline for applications is 30 August 2011.

Read more: Challenge Seeks Faster, Simpler Crop Analysis Methods

Photo: Daniel Brock/Flickr

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