Tech vertical scouting for ceramic cut

A Global Partnership to Revolutionize Tile Cutting

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 eliminate the small surplus of material on cut edges created during continuous tile cutting, while minimizing mechanical stress on the tile edges.

The ideal solution will operate at high speeds (>10 m/min), deliver superior edge quality and seamlessly integrate into the corporate’s existing production line.


Details about the Challenge: Eliminating the imperfections on cutted borders

For decades, continuous tile cutting has presented a persistent challenge: the formation of an undesirable small residues on cutted edges that impacts tile quality and downstream processing.
This burr creates mechanical stress on the tile edges, potentially leading to micro-cracks and inconsistencies.
It also introduces complications further down the line, impacting kiln performance and overall production efficiency. The corporate is committed to overcoming this challenge through a collaborative innovation program.


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:

  • High-Speed Cutting: Capable of operating at 10 m/min or greater, aligning with the corporate’s production line speed.

  • Superior Edge Quality: Delivering a live edge or slight chamfer, minimizing mechanical stress and enhancing aesthetic appeal.

  • Seamless Integration: Compatible with the corporate’s existing continuous cutting line, requiring minimal modifications.

  • Reliable & Repeatable: Demonstrating stability and consistency in performance, minimizing the impact of material variations.

  • Kiln Compatibility: Ensuring that cutting processes do not introduce residue or damage to the kiln rollers, maintaining optimal production flow.

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.

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 Tile Cutting

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 eliminate the small surplus of material on cut edges created during continuous tile cutting, while minimizing mechanical stress on the tile edges.

The ideal solution will operate at high speeds (>10 m/min), deliver superior edge quality and seamlessly integrate into the corporate’s existing production line.


Details about the Challenge: Eliminating the imperfections on cutted borders

For decades, continuous tile cutting has presented a persistent challenge: the formation of an undesirable small residues on cutted edges that impacts tile quality and downstream processing.
This burr creates mechanical stress on the tile edges, potentially leading to micro-cracks and inconsistencies.
It also introduces complications further down the line, impacting kiln performance and overall production efficiency. The corporate is committed to overcoming this challenge through a collaborative innovation program.


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:

  • High-Speed Cutting: Capable of operating at 10 m/min or greater, aligning with the corporate’s production line speed.

  • Superior Edge Quality: Delivering a live edge or slight chamfer, minimizing mechanical stress and enhancing aesthetic appeal.

  • Seamless Integration: Compatible with the corporate’s existing continuous cutting line, requiring minimal modifications.

  • Reliable & Repeatable: Demonstrating stability and consistency in performance, minimizing the impact of material variations.

  • Kiln Compatibility: Ensuring that cutting processes do not introduce residue or damage to the kiln rollers, maintaining optimal production flow.

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.

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 cutting green tiles without creating residues, minimizing mechanical stress on the edges and integrating seamlessly into their existing production line, with a view towards initiating a Proof of Concept (PoC)

L'innovazione è ora.
Costruiamola assieme.

Canali Social

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Clover Venture S.R.L. Società Benefit

Startup Innovativa Via Filippo Turati 29, 20121 Milano (MI) P. IVA / C.F.: 14050490961 – Capitale Sociale: €10.000 n.i.v.

L'innovazione è ora.
Costruiamola assieme.

Canali Social

Icon
Icon
Icon

Clover Venture S.R.L. Società Benefit

Startup Innovativa Via Filippo Turati 29, 20121 Milano (MI) P. IVA / C.F.: 14050490961 – Capitale Sociale: €10.000 n.i.v.