Technology Transfer & Process Technology Licensing

The successful commissioning of a project depends not only on the benefits of the underlying process technology but also on the technology transfer capabilities of the licensor and the quality of the technical services provided throughout the project’s lifecycle. Technology transfer and process technology licensing are among the core activities of AIM Engineering. The engineering and process experience, knowledge, and expertise we have gained over the years form the essential inputs to the services we offer, from the initial stages of projects to implementation and beyond the acceptance of the facility.

Technology transfer refers to the process of moving new or improved technologies from the laboratory to commercial scale. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including product and process development, scaling, commercialization, and ongoing improvement. This requires not only a deep understanding of fundamental science and technology but also the ability to design and optimize large-scale processes capable of consistently and economically producing the product.

Technology Transfer Process

The technology transfer process is typically divided into four main steps:

Feasibility Study: The first step is a feasibility study carried out by the management team. This stage involves determining project feasibility, quality agreements, forming a technology transfer team, and establishing acceptable transfer standards. The feasibility study must be completed before the project transfer begins.
Information Exchange and Technology Transfer Plan: The second step is the development of an information exchange and technology transfer plan. The sending and receiving units analyze gaps in equipment, consumables, processes, and personnel based on collected information. A risk assessment is then performed regarding these gaps, and a risk mitigation plan is proposed. Once all these aspects are addressed, the technology transfer plan is finalized.
Technology Transfer Implementation: The third step involves the transfer of analytical methods, process transfer, clean process transfer, and the successful execution of the related engineering and validation batches.
Technology Transfer Report: The final step involves completing the technology transfer report based on the evaluation of process similarity and the comparability of product quality.
Successful Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property Protection

Ensuring the successful transfer of technology and the protection of the licensor's intellectual property rights is one of AIM Engineering’s primary objectives in this process. The quality of the Technology Transfer Plan plays a critical role in the success of the product development process and, ultimately, in the transition to commercial production. Technology transfer, whether internal or between companies, must be executed flawlessly. This process must not only meet expectations but also ensure regulatory compliance. Technology transfer plans involve much more than confidentiality agreements or sales contracts and production procedures. Project services, such as technical support and process guarantees during facility installation and commissioning, are also part of the services provided by AIM Engineering to ensure the safe, timely, and on-budget completion of the targeted project.