Tech vertical scouting for ceramic density measure
A global partnership to revolutionize density measurement
A global leader in ceramic tile manufacturing technology is partnering with Clover to identify and implement cutting-edge solutions for a critical challenge in their production process.
We are seeking innovative startups that can develop technologies to accurately measure the density of unfired ceramic tiles throughout their volume, verifying this value with precision even under dynamic operational conditions.
The ideal solution will operate reliably and consistently, minimizing the need for repeated measurements or calibration adjustments, and seamlessly integrate into the corporate’s existing production line.
Details about the Challenge: Measure density with extremely high precision
The corporate faces a significant challenge in ensuring consistent density across all tiles throughout the manufacturing process. Current methods, relying on traditional measurements with glycerin or mercury, present limitations:
Calibration Downtime: Current systems require periodic calibration using these traditional methods, leading to production downtime.
Drift & Repeatability: The accuracy of existing measurements drifts over time, necessitating repeated tests and impacting overall efficiency.
Environmental Constraints: The measurement environment is demanding – high speed (9-15 m/min), variable tile thicknesses (3-30mm), large formats (up to 1800x3600mm) and a dusty, vibratory environment.
Roadmap of this Open Innovation initiative:
March-April: Targeted Scouting and Feedback. We’re scouting a wide pool of solutions and gather initial feedback from both you and the corporate.
May: In-depth interviews and selection. We’ll conduct qualitative interviews with shortlisted startups, gaining valuable insights into their technology and potential. A final selection of 5-8 top projects will be identified for a Proof of Concept (PoC).
June: PoC planning. We will collaborate with the corporate to plan and initiate a PoC for the most promising solutions.
What we're looking for:
We are seeking startups with technologies that meet the following criteria:
Accuracy: The core requirement is a measurement accuracy of 1% (±20 points on a 2000 kg/mc scale).
Seamless Integration: Compatible with the corporate’s existing continuous cutting line, requiring minimal modifications.
Reliability: The system must be stable, repeatable, and minimally affected by variations in material or environmental factors.
Non-Destructive Measurement: The density measurement must be performed before the tile undergoes firing.
Eligibility & Criteria:
We welcome submissions from startups across various sectors, with a preference for those demonstrating:
TRL 3-5: Technologies at the pilot experimental stage or validated in a relevant environment.
Hands-on Approach: Teams with practical experience and a commitment to delivering tangible results.
Solid Scientific Foundation: Solutions grounded in sound scientific principles, ready for validation and implementation. While the corporate has experience with traditional methods, we are open to exploring emerging technologies such as:
X-ray technology
Ultrasound
Spectroscopy at luminescence
Magnetic resonance
Join the Journey!
This is an exceptional opportunity to partner with a global leader and contribute to the evolution of tile manufacturing. We invite you to explore this challenge and discover how your innovation can shape the future of our industry. We are eager to connect with forward-thinking startups ready to collaborate and drive meaningful change!
A global partnership to revolutionize density measurement
A global leader in ceramic tile manufacturing technology is partnering with Clover to identify and implement cutting-edge solutions for a critical challenge in their production process.
We are seeking innovative startups that can develop technologies to accurately measure the density of unfired ceramic tiles throughout their volume, verifying this value with precision even under dynamic operational conditions.
The ideal solution will operate reliably and consistently, minimizing the need for repeated measurements or calibration adjustments, and seamlessly integrate into the corporate’s existing production line.
Details about the Challenge: Measure density with extremely high precision
The corporate faces a significant challenge in ensuring consistent density across all tiles throughout the manufacturing process. Current methods, relying on traditional measurements with glycerin or mercury, present limitations:
Calibration Downtime: Current systems require periodic calibration using these traditional methods, leading to production downtime.
Drift & Repeatability: The accuracy of existing measurements drifts over time, necessitating repeated tests and impacting overall efficiency.
Environmental Constraints: The measurement environment is demanding – high speed (9-15 m/min), variable tile thicknesses (3-30mm), large formats (up to 1800x3600mm) and a dusty, vibratory environment.
Roadmap of this Open Innovation initiative:
March-April: Targeted Scouting and Feedback. We’re scouting a wide pool of solutions and gather initial feedback from both you and the corporate.
May: In-depth interviews and selection. We’ll conduct qualitative interviews with shortlisted startups, gaining valuable insights into their technology and potential. A final selection of 5-8 top projects will be identified for a Proof of Concept (PoC).
June: PoC planning. We will collaborate with the corporate to plan and initiate a PoC for the most promising solutions.
What we're looking for:
We are seeking startups with technologies that meet the following criteria:
Accuracy: The core requirement is a measurement accuracy of 1% (±20 points on a 2000 kg/mc scale).
Seamless Integration: Compatible with the corporate’s existing continuous cutting line, requiring minimal modifications.
Reliability: The system must be stable, repeatable, and minimally affected by variations in material or environmental factors.
Non-Destructive Measurement: The density measurement must be performed before the tile undergoes firing.
Eligibility & Criteria:
We welcome submissions from startups across various sectors, with a preference for those demonstrating:
TRL 3-5: Technologies at the pilot experimental stage or validated in a relevant environment.
Hands-on Approach: Teams with practical experience and a commitment to delivering tangible results.
Solid Scientific Foundation: Solutions grounded in sound scientific principles, ready for validation and implementation. While the corporate has experience with traditional methods, we are open to exploring emerging technologies such as:
X-ray technology
Ultrasound
Spectroscopy at luminescence
Magnetic resonance
Join the Journey!
This is an exceptional opportunity to partner with a global leader and contribute to the evolution of tile manufacturing. We invite you to explore this challenge and discover how your innovation can shape the future of our industry. We are eager to connect with forward-thinking startups ready to collaborate and drive meaningful change!
Propose your startup here

We're seeking innovative startups with technologies capable of deliver precision density measurement, enhances production efficiency and integrating seamlessly into their existing production line, with a view towards initiating a Proof of Concept (PoC)
