Ingenium Biometric Laboratories, a leading innovator in biometric technologies research and testing, and the University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science (ECS) proudly announce their partnership in biometric research projects.

This collaboration represents a significant opportunity to develop further research and development capabilities to support the global biometric technology industry. This strategic alliance will leverage the combined expertise and resources of both organisations to drive innovation and address critical challenges in the field of biometrics.

Together, they will focus on exploring the performance and security of biometric technology, including the development of research projects relating to the role of demographic bias, deep fake technologies and artificial intelligence.

"We are thrilled to partner with the University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science in our shared pursuit of advancing biometric technologies," said Chris Allgrove, co-founder at Ingenium Biometric Laboratories. "This collaboration represents a powerful synergy between industry and academia, enabling us to push the boundaries of innovation and develop groundbreaking research and testing capabilities for the biometrics industry."

Professor of Biometric Technologies Richard Guest, from the School of Electronics and Computer Science, said: "Southampton is at the forefront of pioneering new research for the future of biometrics. Combining our expertise with Ingenium will bring about new opportunities and develop technologies in an industry of national importance for the UK.”

For more information about Ingenium Biometric Laboratories and the University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science, please visit www.ingeniumbiometrics.com and Re:action

About Ingenium Biometric Laboratories:

Ingenium is a research and innovation laboratory, helping organisations test and trust identity, biometric and age estimation technology, to enable organisations to use them with confidence in their digital and business transformation initiatives. Ingenium is also the UK’s independent biometrics laboratory for the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) including for critical national infrastructure. 

About University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science: 

The University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science is a world-renowned hub for research and education in biometrics, computer science, electronics, and related disciplines.  

In a landmark initiative with Network Rail, the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory TDHVL at the University of Southampton unveils the successful advancement to Phase 3 of the Network Rail - Overline Electrical Clearances project, demonstrating a pivotal shift towards economical railway electrification, with potential savings estimated in the range of tens to hundreds of millions.

This project was made possible through the collaboration between TDHVL and the R.J. Mitchell Wind Tunnel at the University of Southampton. The R.J. Mitchell Wind Tunnel, one of the largest wind tunnels in the UK university sector, features a wind speed test range from 4 to 40 metres per second. The full range was utilised during the project's testing phase.

With an investment close to £350K earmarked for the TDHVL laboratory, including £50K dedicated to specialized wind tunnel testing, the project stands as a testament to strategic financial planning and technological foresight. The emphasis has been on leveraging these funds to unlock substantial savings for Network Rail, showcasing the project's immense potential to redefine financial paradigms in railway infrastructure development.

The project's success story extends beyond its immediate financial benefits, encapsulating a broader narrative of innovation and sustainable development. The integrated approach, combining advanced research and practical testing, has paved the way for significant enhancements in electrification standards, potentially translating into savings of tens to hundreds of millions for Network Rail.

Reflecting on the project's journey, the Laboratory Manager Neil Palmer remarked:

"This venture is not just about advanced testing; it's a bold step towards reimagining the future of railway electrification. The synergy between our cutting-edge facilities and the visionary outlook of Network Rail has been instrumental in unlocking new possibilities for cost efficiency and technological excellence."

The comprehensive analysis and testing conducted in this project are set to revolutionize the industry's approach to overline electrical clearances, reducing the need for expensive structural overhauls. This initiative represents a significant leap forward in our commitment to fostering sustainable and economically viable railway systems.

More details about the Network Rail - Overline Electrical Clearances project.