Dutch SME Catalyst Fund Supports Dredging Robot Project
The company Aqitec Water Systems in Dordrecht, the Netherlands, has received a financial contribution from the Small and Medium Eterprises (SME) Catalyst Fund Drechtsteden. The company uses this co-financing to carry out a feasibility study for a dredging robot.
Dredging is normally carried out periodically. It keeps waters navigable and ensures safe drainage of water. Yet, sedimentation is a continuous process. Therefore, Aqitec is developing an innovative dredging solution based on electric dredging robots that drive on the seabed, suck up the sludge and press it to the shore through a floating pipeline. This method is less invasive and more environmentally friendly. The robots can be used continuously or can be deployed quickly, for example to remove blockages. The feasibility study is to investigate for what types of dredging projects the robot could best be deployed.
Towards Pilot Projects
Aqitec Water Systems is a spin-off of the product development company Aqitec of Laura Dinkla, Idtz Wieling and Ivo Wieling. 'We pioneer electric dredging robots to keep lakes, canals and harbours at the right depth. In the coming years, we want to carry out pilot projects and further refine the technology and we are looking for cooperation with contractors to set up a service.'
Sustainability Factory
Based on the idea that "development is cooperation", the company has established itself in one of the production halls of the Sustainability Factory (Duurzaamheidsfabriek), where there are direct lines of communication with other start-ups, companies and the education sector.
Alderman Maarten Burggraaf is proud that Aqitec has joined the innovation network in the region: 'This kind of innovative entrepreneurship is extremely valuable for the regional economy. Moreover, Aqitec Water Systems offers a sustainable technical solution. I am confident that the water managers will embrace robotics and that the manufacturing industry in the region will benefit directly from this innovation.'
