The 'IntelliSense' project opens up a new collaborative platform, enabling industry to develop and apply both at- and in-line instrumentation and control systems in the pharmaceutical manufacturing process.
In addition, the programme aims to concentrate on the process of particulate processing, a key operation in the manufacture of pharmaceutical, agro-chemical and speciality chemical products.
Using a combination of sensor development, measurement, multi-scale modelling and information technology, 'IntelliSense' aims to provide industrial relevance by targeting commercial and industrial issues.
The programme will also encourage industrial input on key particulate measurement and control problems, and will seek to develop innovative solutions through collaborative projects.
Analysts have predicted particle processing to be on the verge of a revolution in understanding, monitoring and control.
Global competition has driven manufacturers to seek new solutions in the monitoring, control and management of processes. These solutions have to deliver step changes in cost and quality.
As part of 'IntelliSense', Dr Xue Zhong Wang has been appointed to Malvern Reader in Intelligent Measurement and Control. Dr Wang's recent research has focused on the investigation of techniques to help improve process performance through the integration of on-line measurement, control and information systems.
"This joint venture will contribute to the creation of new technologies and solutions, a process that will be aided by the establishment of international networks with major research centres around the world," said Paul Walker, managing director of Malvern Instruments.