Milford-Based Manufacturer Receives Technology Grant

A Milford-based manufacturer of electronic sensors is working with Plymouth State University Professor of Meteorology James Koermer to develop a portable lightning sensor.

According to a report, AIRMAR Technology Corporation has been awarded a Granite State Technology Innovation Grant from the New Hampshire Innovation Research Center (NHIRC).

“Independent testing at a university is invaluable to verify the feasibility of this type of new product,” said Kenneth Rolt, chief scientist at AIRMAR. “The funding provided by NHIRC gives us access to university resources to evaluate the performance and accuracy of the sensor using ground truth equipment and measurement tools are essential to success. The results, if favorable, will be the accuracy selling point that positions us as the leader in meteorological sensors.”

According to Koermer, AIRMAR "knows the market is ready for a low-cost stand-alone portable sensor that would fill the permanent or temporary need for airports, meteorology and forecasting, transportation, agriculture and other affected industries and activities that need accurate lightning detection."

A request for proposals is now open and will fund 12-month projects beginning January 1, 2014. To learn more about the NHIRC and how to apply for funding, visit http://www.nhirc.unh.edu.