Reusable packaging and logistics solution for Air Source Heat Pumps
The Innovation Exchange is supporting ICAX, through the InnovateUK KTN Net Zero Catalyst programme to find solutions for its product packaging challenge. ICAX wishes to engage innovators to find packaging or logistics solutions that reduce its current reliance on single-use plastics and packaging. The solution provider will be able to access part of a £25,000 grant award to work with ICAX on delivery of a proof-of-concept trial.
Opportunity
Challenge opens
05/12/2022
Challenge closes
13/01/2023
Benefit
Shortlisted applicants will be given an opportunity to pitch their solution to ICAX. The final successful applicant will deliver a proof-of-concept trial with ICAX, to demonstrate the solution. The project team will receive a £25,000 grant award, to be apportioned between ICAX and the successful applicant, as agreed on a bilateral basis.
Background
ICAX provides a turnkey package for meeting sustainable energy targets on construction projects using ground-source energy. It undertakes design and installation to ensure that heating and cooling needs are met in a sustainable way by recycling heat energy.
ICAX has developed a novel domestic heat pump that has reached late-stage prototype trials. It is building a manufacturing site in the UK and will produce north of 1500 heat pumps in 2023.
ICAX requires a reusable packaging and logistics solution for the distribution of its heat pump to households across the UK, as well as retailers of its product. ICAX currently does not have an in-house transport solution and its use of external logistics providers is a possibility for the future.
The prototype unit was stored and transported using a standard euro pallet (see figure 1 for dimensions) and plastic wrapping. The heat pump was bolted to the pallet to provide stability and enable ease of maneuverability with a forklift truck. The plastic wrapping provided protection from scratches and dirt.
Figure 1: Dimensions of a Euro Pallet
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