PhovIR: Revolutionising Material Analysis with Advanced NIR Technology

What is PhovIR?

PhovIR is at the forefront of a technological revolution, transforming the way we interact with and understand the material world. At its heart is a sophisticated Near-Infrared (NIR) optical sensor small enough to integrate into handheld devices. It enables precise and comprehensive material analysis right at your fingertips.

 

Watch this snapshot video about PhovIR:

What Makes PhovIR Superior?

Traditional spectrometers are often large, expensive, and require specialised expertise to operate. PhovIR solves this by leveraging proprietary MEMS semiconductor chip technology, which drastically reduces manufacturing costs without sacrificing performance. This advancement makes high-quality spectral analysis accessible, affordable, and portable.

Key Features and Benefits:

  • Compact and Portable NIR Sensor: PhovIR’s sensor is designed for seamless integration into mobile devices such as smartphones and smartwatches, making it easy to carry advanced analytical capabilities wherever you go.
  • High Performance Spectroscopy: Despite its small size, the PhovIR sensor delivers accurate and rapid material identification by analysing the unique spectral fingerprints of different substances.
  • Versatile Applications in Multiple Industries: From assessing food quality and pharmaceutical purity to detecting hazardous materials and monitoring environmental conditions, PhovIR’s applications are vast and varied.
  • User-Friendly Analytical Software: PhovIR’s advanced software utilises state-of-the-art algorithms and a comprehensive database to provide real-time analysis, making sophisticated technology easy to use for everyone.

Technical Highlights

  • NIR Sensor Technology for Material Analysis: Utilises near-infrared light to probe the molecular structure of substances, creating distinct spectral signatures for precise identification.
  • Proprietary MEMS Manufacturing: Ensures cost-effective production while maintaining high resolution and wide spectral range, overcoming the limitations of traditional spectrometers.
  • Advanced Analytical Software: Equipped with robust algorithms and an extensive spectral database, PhovIR’s software delivers fast and accurate material analysis.
Prototype of PhovIR's Spectrometre

The PhovIR prototype being tested in the lab at the University of Manchester by CTO, Tim Echtermeyer

The Value Proposition

  • Economical Manufacturing with MEMS Technology: Harnesses MEMS technology to achieve economies of scale, reducing costs significantly.
  • Comprehensive Spectral Analysis: Balances spectral range, resolution, and acquisition time effectively, providing thorough and reliable results.
  • Portable Integration for On-the-Go Analysis: Small size and ease of integration into everyday devices bring laboratory-grade analysis to the general public.

PhovIR is more than just a product; it represents a commitment to a safer, more informed, and efficient world. By empowering users with the ability to understand material composition and quality instantaneously, PhovIR opens new frontiers in multiple industries.

Dr Tim Echtermeyer is the Founder and CTO of PhovIR. He is a Reader in the Microelectronics and Nanostructures Research Group in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Manchester

Real-World Impact

Imagine scanning food with your smartphone to check its nutritional content or freshness, having your smartwatch provide tailored fitness advice based on your body’s current state, or using a portable device to ensure the safety and quality of pharmaceuticals. PhovIR makes these scenarios a reality, offering endless possibilities for enhancing daily life and professional operations.

Just a Few of the Possible Applications

  • Healthcare Monitoring and Diagnostics: Non-invasive monitoring and analysis for improved diagnostics and patient care.
  • Agriculture and Crop Management: Determining crop ripeness and quality for optimised harvesting and production.
  • Food Safety and Quality Assurance: Ensuring food safety and quality from farm to table.
  • Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Detection: Detecting and analysing pollutants for a safer environment.
  • Security and Hazardous Material Detection: Identifying hazardous materials swiftly to enhance safety protocols.
Photo showing two men walking towards camera in street: CEO, Paul Khan (left) and Founder and CTO, Tim Echtermeyer (right)

The PhovIR Team: CEO, Paul Hunt (left) and PhovIR Founder and CTO, Dr Tim Echtermeyer (right)

Get in Touch

This technology is investment-ready.  To learn more about how PhovIR can revolutionise your industry and to explore investment opportunities, please get in touch.