TORRANCE, CA–(Marketwired – Nov 10, 2015) – Transient Plasma Systems Inc. (TPS) today announced that it has won the prestigious Ocean Exchange/WWL Orcelle® 2015 Award of $100,000 for its Energy Efficient Low Emission Ignition concept.
Ray Fitzgerald, President for Atlantic of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL), congratulated the winner: “Transient Plasma Systems has developed an energy efficient, low emission plasma ignition technology that can help shipping reduce NOx emissions, as well as improve fuel efficiency in any combustion engine. It’s a technology that can have a major impact on human health and the environment; and is a very fitting winner of the Orcelle Award.”
Dr. Dan Singleton, CEO and co-founder of TPS, said, “We are humbled by this award and proud of what our team has accomplished already. TPS has developed deep relationships with companies that value our fundamentally new technological approach to combustion, including automotive and truck manufacturers and engine producers. These relationships will help accelerate our path to making a major impact on energy consumption and emissions around the world.”
Dr. Jason Sanders, CTO and co-founder of TPS, stated that, “Our application-focused R&D has resulted in a patent portfolio that provides a foundation to quickly move from concept to commercialization. The resulting alpha prototypes have been tested at leading U.S. national laboratories and universities, and were shown to extend the limits of dilute combustion. This has resulted in up to 20 percent higher fuel efficiency, as well as a significant reduction in NOx production. These findings have been published in peer reviewed journals. The maturation of our technology has outpaced our expectations, resulting in a product that I think can offer a cost-effective solution for auto makers as they work to meet the aggressive new CAFE Standard regulatory requirements.”
This accelerated development cycle was made possible largely through fundamental research conducted at Professor Martin Gundersen’s Pulsed Power Laboratory at the University of Southern California (USC), under the guidance of both Professor Gundersen and Dr. András Kuthi. Dr. Singleton and Dr. Sanders both note that they are indebted to Professor Gunderson and Dr. Kuthi, whose mentorship in fundamental science and technology laid the groundwork for TPS.
“Our drive towards commercialization will allow engine and automotive manufacturers to achieve a dramatic reduction in emissions — including NOx and particulates — while simultaneously improving fuel economy,” Dr. Sanders continued. “Our products have applications for engines used in automotive, trucking, natural gas vehicles, stationary power generation, marine, and other transportation.”
Beyond combustion in engines, the nanosecond pulsed power technology TPS has developed has numerous other applications. Ongoing explorations into the effects of nanosecond duration pulsed electric field have received industry attention for both agricultural and medical applications.
Professor Gundersen expressed his enthusiasm by noting that, “The technology that we have been incubating in the lab for over 20 years does not just tinker with the present ignition system in engines. It is a radically new way to chemically combust the fuel in automotive and marine engines, thereby providing a safe and effective way for manufacturers to reduce noxious emissions either on the road or on the seas. In due time, the outstanding team at TPS will also explore other applications of this nanosecond pulsed power technology.”
Dr. Michael Mann, Chairman of the Board for TPS, said, “The road to commercialization is never easy. Based on my experience, the dedication and talent displayed at TPS in understanding the needs of our customers is unsurpassed, and research and development is all geared towards a fast and focused product development.”
As members of the Board of Directors for TPS, Mario Leone and Hoshi Printer stated that, “Our reason for actively participating in TPS is that this technology for combustion is completely different than the normal physics used for the last 100 years. TPS fundamentally alters combustion chemistry to enhance performance and reduce emissions. This technology is ready for commercialization, and has broader applications beyond its use in all types of engines.”
Dr. Singleton indicated that the $100,000 award would be used to hire technical resources and purchase testing equipment to further the goal of early commercialization with business partners.
About Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL)
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics delivers innovative and sustainable global shipping and logistics solutions for manufacturers of cars, trucks, heavy equipment and specialized cargo. The company also specializes in handling complex project cargoes such as rail cars, power generators, mining equipment and yachts. WWL’s sophisticated supply chain management services ensure an efficient integration of ocean transportation, inland distribution, terminal handling and a comprehensive range of specialized technical services. For more information, please visit www.2wglobal.com.
About The Ocean Exchange
Founded in 2010, The Ocean Exchange is the intersection where organizations from around the world advance and promote their cutting-edge solutions and innovations in materials, devices, processes and systems. We have created the knowledge-based catalyst for organizations to achieve their sustainability goals. By connecting innovators and organizations, The Ocean Exchange empowers the successful application of solutions for the greater good. For more information, please visit www.oceanexchange.org.