FNS Start-up vouchers awarded to four initiatives

Four vouchers have now been awarded to the following initiatives:

1. Efficient heat dissipation for active phased array radar systems with a 3D-printed heat pipe array

StarWarden is a spin-off of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) developing a patented cooling technology called the 3D-printed Heat Pipe Array. The 3D-printed Heat Pipe Array is able to dissipate very intense heat from a small surface area.

Preparation of an ammonia 3D-printed Heat Pipe Array is not straightforward due to its boiling point (- 33°C at atmospheric pressure). StarWarden is pursuing the development of a special equipment able to charge of a working fluid such ammonia into the pipes (at very high vacuum conditions) followed by the sealing of the pipe. The budget of this FNS voucher would support StarWarden completing the development of the equipment focusing the vacuum induction brazing functionality.

2. Load-Modulated Linearization and Amplification System for Telecom

The load-modulated lineariser (LML) developed at the University of Twente uses two control amplifiers to linearize the output of a nonlinear amplifier operating in strong compression, allowing higher power output while maintaining linearity. This approach, which absorbs unwanted distortion through active load modulation, is less computationally complex than input-based techniques and can be applied across various technologies and topologies.

The voucher budget will be allocated to advancing the business case by analyzing competition, conducting market and customer validation, and identifying the LML's technology differentiation. It will also involve defining a business model and drafting initial financial estimates for a profitable operation.

3. Extraterrestrial Communications Systems (ECS)

ECS, a future spin-off from TU Delft, aims to be a key enabler in the Dutch and European space sectors by providing essential infrastructure and innovations in ground-to-satellite communications. Its core mission is to enhance ground-to-space connectivity, fostering an environment where space technology can evolve rapidly without being constrained by foundational infrastructure.

The voucher will be used to achieve the first major milestone: setting up a VHF/UHF ground station at Unmanned Valley in cooperation with Do IoT Fieldlab, which ECS will use to offer Groundstation As A Service. Before ECS can operate the MVP ground station, it needs to finalize technical details such as location and frequencies, submit a license request, and proceed with construction.

4. Climate-controlled chamber created from RF-transparent material for characterizing electromagnetic structures and materials at mm-wave frequencies

This is a project of of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) developing the creation of a climate-controlled environment within existing OTA measurement facilities, allowing devices or materials to be tested under various climatic conditions. It also supports both device characterization and channel measurements in these environments.

The voucher will be used to conduct a technology landscaping analysis to assess technology trends, patent strength, and competitive positioning. It will also be used to conduct a market study to evaluate product viability through focus groups and explore potential collaborations with FNS partners.