CUT is living by its vision 2030 statement that states ‘By 2030, Central University of Technology, Free State will be a leading African University of Technology, shaping the future through innovation’.

As a University of Technology in the Central region, CUT is making a difference in socio-economic development as a preferred local, national and international partner to anyone who intends to contribute towards the regional and national economy.

Product Development Technology Station (PDTS) is one of various commercial and academic research centres of excellence, units and groups which provides an important platform for social and technological innovations and solutions. Funded by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the centre continues to contribute positively to businesses and communities through its social and technological innovations. PDTS is involved in product design, prototyping and short-run production. In collaboration with local businesses, the PDTS team can develop new ideas into products or improve existing products with detailed engineering. In this way, they support businesses and individuals through the entire new product development process.

The station uses first-class engineering expertise from the Central University of Technology (CUT) and specialised prototyping equipment from the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM). They use innovative technologies: CAD designs, Finite Element Analysis, Rapid Prototyping and Reverse Engineering to provide services suited to customers’ specific needs. PDTS and CRPM are also assisting in manufacturing the much-needed hospital equipment, such as oxygen connectors and splitters to increase the capacity of the hospitals.

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Some of the innovative assistive products.

1: PDTS built the sensory integration room for a special school in Bloemfontein.   

2: Sensory integration body roller, sensory integration scooter board, non-assistive patient transfer and a patient standing frame.