Building a device to test wind speed

An $800,000 grant from Commercialisation Australia will help NSW company Fulcrum3D to commercialise a device for remotely measuring wind speed at altitudes of up to 300 metres.

Targeted at the global wind energy industry, Fulcrum3D’s compact-beam sound detection and ranging (SODAR) technology allows wind speed measurements in three dimensions. It is said to provide a lower cost and more accurate alternative to conventional measurement systems to assist wind farm planning and management.

The Early Stage Commercialisation grant will be used by the North Sydney-based company to bridge the gap between current prototypes and commercially available products by demonstrating the value proposition to customers in three distinct market segments.

The latest funding from Commercialisation Australia means a total of 360 participants have been provided with $142.1 million in assistance since January 2010.

“Commercialisation Australia is supporting numerous Australian businesses and innovators working to bring their ideas to market,” said Commercialisation Australia CEO Doron Ben-Meir.

“We provide essential funding and crucial guidance that helps innovators navigate the path to successful commercialisation so that the economic benefits flow through society creating new jobs, new industries and higher productivity. Our dedicated case managers and extended network provide the timely advice and key insights participants need to enhance their prospects of commercial success.

“We help businesses move to a stage where they can attract commercial investment or simply generate revenue to achieve business viability.”

For more information about the program, visit www.commercialisationaustralia.gov.au.