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Innovation and Technology Transfer
From inspiration to impact. Access our integrated ecosystem of support including the Idea Generator (i-GYM), Technology Transfer Office, CUT Makerspace, and Incubation Support to transform your research and ideas into viable enterprises and real-world solutions.
From Idea to Impact
Interconnected pathways that provide seamless support at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey
Spark Entrepreneurial Thinking
Idea Generator (i-GYM)
More than a launchpad, i-GYM is a culture builder that normalises innovation as a way of working. We identify, connect, and nurture aspiring founders across the University community, providing hands-on access to the CUT Makerspace for rapid prototyping and experimentation.
Protect and Commercialise IP
Technology Transfer Office (TTO)
We ensure valuable research IP doesn't stay on the shelf. The TTO guides researchers through identifying, protecting, and commercialising innovations, while providing structured incubation support, mentorship, and access to entrepreneurial networks for early-stage ventures.
Bring Ideas to Life
CUT Makerspace powered by FabLab
Where ideas become tangible. Open to students, staff, and the wider community, we offer accessible prototyping services including digital design, 3D printing, laser cutting, and electronics fabrication. Beyond technical capability, we cultivate resilience, creative problem-solving, and the confidence to explore new opportunities.
From Concept to Viable Enterprise
Integrated Incubation Support
When innovation, protection, and prototyping converge, ventures thrive. Through our integrated ecosystem, early-stage founders receive comprehensive mentorship, workspace, business advisory services, and connections to industry and investment networks, helping you move from concept to viable enterprise with confidence.
No upcoming events.
Research Development
Intellectual Property and Commercialisation Pipeline
CUT does not just publish research; we protect and productise it. True to the obligations of the IPR-PFRD Act, the university actively secures legal protection for its most promising innovations, translating academic ingenuity into commercially and socially viable solutions. Below is a selection of recent patents and technology demonstrators driving CUT’s global footprint.
3
New Patent Families Filed
(SA Provisional and PCT)
5
Global Markets Protected
(US, Europe, Canada, China, SA)
2
Granted International Patents
(Power systems technology)
Featured Innovations and Patents
Medical Devices & Biomaterials
Shadow-Shield Collimator for Neonatal Radiography (PCT): Minimises ionising radiation exposure for premature infants in intensive care.
Antibacterial Nanofibre Implant Coatings (Provisional): Novel PCL/PU/CuO nanofibres that prevent implant infections and promote tissue integration (CRPM & BITRI).
Advanced Manufacturing & Spatial Tech
Baseplate for 3D Printing (Provisional): Solves HDPE warping in FFF printing, unlocking larger, cost-effective industrial prints.
3D Point Cloud Processing System (PCT): Radial segmentation for precise terrain modelling in autonomous navigation and infrastructure planning.
Engineering & Agriculture
Power System Protection Relay (Granted US & GB): Pioneering technology for renewable energy grid stability and series-compensated lines.
Pelvic Meter for Small Stock: Patented agricultural tool developed in collaboration with South African breeders’ societies.
Consumer Innovation
Compact Coffee Press (Granted, PCT Extension): A portable brewing device protected in five strategic global markets (US, Europe, Canada, China, SA).
Demonstrating CUT’s ability to translate student and staff ingenuity into globally competitive consumer products.
These filings are a testament to the creativity of CUT’s researchers and students. The university formally acknowledges and celebrates the inventors behind each of these inventions, ensuring that South African innovation is protected, scaled, and brought to market.