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Vivacta, formerly PiezOptic initially developed a gas monitoring system for identification and quantitative analysis of environmental and chemical gas exposure. The company pioneered piezofilm sensors using technology licensed by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL).
The system comprised of a disposable cartridge that utilized novel piezofilm technology and a reader for measuring the electrical charge produced when gases react with reagents on the polymer film. Vivacta began to explore other applications for the technology and discovered that the patent from DSTL could be extended to testing biological fluids.
This new application required significant research and development input to convert the system and develop the diagnostic chemistries. In the early stages of the project, ITL provided support for the adaption of the piezo sensor, including concept development, testing, and verification of solutions for:
Vivacta successfully secured the patents for biological applications and aimed to utilize the innovative technology within a sensitive, cost-effective, and user-friendly in vitro diagnostic device for point of care testing. We provided a prototype Chemistry Development System (CDS) to facilitate fundamental research and prototype design. The prototype development included the following:
With the principles of the concept proven, the focus shifted to the challenge of designing an instrument to incorporate the system. ITL worked jointly with a third-party product design consultancy, Maddison, to integrate the vibration-isolation mechanisms into an aesthetically pleasing package, incorporating usability and ergonomics.
As well as mechanical and systems engineering support, Vivacta also enlisted the help of our software and firmware engineers for coding and implementation of the necessary software elements.
We were contracted to manufacture 50 engineering prototypes. Having R&D and production in-house allowed our engineers and production staff to work together to produce a batch of Vivacta prototypes to almost pre-production standards. Following the build of the 50 prototypes, Vivacta then placed a second order for a further 50 units.
Vivacta was able to utilize these devices for further in-house chemistry development, the results of which led to a $90m acquisition by the healthcare giant Novartis in 2012.
Whether you’re looking to develop an idea or concept into a commercially viable product, or you need help progressing one specific stage of your project, we can help.