More hands make light work 27.05.2009
An inventor from Colne has had a groundbreaking Eureka moment with his robotic gripping device after teaming up with the No Limits Eureka programme.
Eureka has helped John Ridehough improve the technical calibration aspects of his ‘Radi-Grip’ invention, provided part funding for the initial four prototypes and has advised him on ways to market and exploit the new design.
Astounded by John’s design and development skills, Eureka is now drawing on Johns experience and he is acting in support of the team as a consultant offering advice and guidance to fellow innovators.
John’s whole life has revolved around engineering management and ironically it was when his business went into liquidation that he found his big break.
The self confessed fanatical inventor has always had more ideas than time to develop them and so when two engineering businessmen offered to fund a company where he could develop his ideas, it was an offer he couldn’t refuse.
Turning 60 in three months, John said: “When they approached me it was like a dream come true; turning my ideas into reality is something I’ve wanted to do my whole life and it was a perfect opportunity to show the world what I’m capable of.”
Radical Technologies (Research and Development Innovation Concept and Logic) was established in 2008 and John, a partner in the company, designs and builds mechanism prototypes based on customer’s briefs and specifications.
To date the company’s biggest success is the Radi-Grip which is a revolutionary gripping mechanism for the end of robot arms to aid automated industrial machinery.
The product has generated lots of interest from multi-million pound brands, with enquiries for potential sales.
“The grant has enabled us to create prototypes to be made and tested in real situations and Eureka has supported our empirical tests which were conducted at Lancaster University.
“Our new design costs less, comprises of standard, no-fuss, components and is more accurate and forceful than those at present on the market,” said John.
The No Limits Eureka scheme offers specialist support for people and businesses that want to push the boundaries of innovation, creativity and technology. It aims to tap into private sector expertise in areas such as ICT, design and prototyping and e-business to help bring new products onto the market.
“It’s taken me almost sixty years to get to where I want to be and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a 50
mile round trip to work and I’m there at 5.30am everyday, seven days a week, not because I have to but because I love my job,” he concluded.
Paul White, Eureka Business Adviser, said: “John’s work is astounding and it’s fantastic that he’s now giving practical support to the Eureka project, helping others get to where they want to be.”
Prior to radi-grip John was commissioned by the Southport Flower Show to create a water feature clock which, at five feet tall and a metre wide, is the only one in the world which resulted in being commemorated by the Royal Observatory and the Royal Horology Institute.
No Limits has secured an initial £30m to regenerate the Pennine Lancashire economy through supporting new and growing businesses, creating up to 13,000 jobs and 4,000 companies over the next decade.
No Limits works with partners including Lancashire County Council, the local authorities of Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn and Pendle as well as Burnley FC, Accrington Stanley and Blackburn Rovers.
To learn more about Eureka and No Limits, call 0800 612 2029 or visit www.no-limits.org.uk.
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