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Uni spin-out secures £340,000 investment to transform efficiency of electric vehicles and accelerate journey to NetZero with groundbreaking power electronics

Gedling Eye
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Uni spin-out secures £340,000 investment to transform efficiency of electric vehicles and accelerate journey to NetZero with groundbreaking power electronics

University of Nottingham spin-out, The Thinking Pod innovations (TTPi), has secured £340,000 in its first investment round to commercialise pioneering power electronics technology, which reduce the environmental impact and cost of electric vehicles.

TTPi has developed groundbreaking technology in collaboration with the University of Nottingham, which will boost the efficiency and range of electric cars.

The company was founded in 2017 and to date, the firm has been funded through grants from Innovate UK, UKRI, Driving the Electric Revolution and income generated from commercial development agreements with partners such as Advanced Electric Machines, National Grid ESO and Infineon Technologies.

Now, the growing company has sought external equity investment for the first time.

In a notable show of support for co-founders and directors Prof Lee Empringham, Dr Liliana de Lillo and their team, since the new finance has been provided by fellow academics within the field of power electronics, the University of Nottingham, as well friends and family.

TTPi’s novel technology enables the creation of smaller, lighter, more efficient power converters and motor drive systems, which are essential in electric vehicles, aircraft, and any dynamic industrial processes that rely on electricity as a power source.

Currently, these components can be bulky and heavy, but using TTPi’s knowledge and applications allows them to be packaged into lightweight, compact units that will produce major savings in terms of precious raw material use, energy and cost, and deliver a better performance compared to anything currently available.

“The support for TTPi from fellow academics friends and family is exceptional,” said company chairman David Whelan, who has over 35 years of business development experience, with particular expertise in expanding companies, while increasing company turnover and profitability.

“I have been working with spin-outs for 15 years and this shows what the investors feel about Lee and Liliana and their colleagues, as well as the future of the company, the technology it is developing and where that can go.

“We believe this technology and the products it supports will make a real difference in the transition to net-zero carbon emissions across multiple industrial sectors.”

This investment in TTPi will facilitate the commercialisation of cutting-edge components aimed at the electric vehicle industry. It will enable further development of TTPi’s DC-to-DC modular converter unit for use in electric vehicles, fund new staff and the creation of commercial licence agreements and patents.

The demand for improved power electronics components is huge, as all industrial sectors strive to manage the environmental impact of production and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

The market for more compact and efficient electric vehicle (high-voltage DC-DC) power converters alone, is estimated to be $1.46 billion in 2024, rising to $2.82 billion in 20291.

The interest in and support for TTPi derives from the fact that its technology and modules have already been tested and field-trialled with excellent results.

“Industry is turning to electricity to meet the environmental challenges facing the planet and power electronics is the backbone of our increasingly electrified world,” said Prof Empringham, a leading member of the Power Electronics Machines and Control (PEMC) Research Institute and Standards Chair for the Industrial Power Converter Committee of the IEEE Industrial Application Society.

Prof Empringham explained that in an electric car, for example, a 400V or 800V battery is used to drive the wheels, but other systems like air conditioning and power steering require a lower voltage such as 42V and 12V systems.

“That’s where power converters come in, but their size and weight is currently a problem,” added Prof Empringham who has previously collaborated with leading global companies, including Boeing, GE Aviation, Infineon, Liebherr-Aerospace, Airbus, Ultra Electronics, Jaguar Land Rover.

“TTPi is ideally placed to help meet these challenges and supply these growing markets with state-of-the-art power dense, efficient and sustainable solutions, which includes power converters and motor drive systems.”

TTPi’s converters are lighter than existing products and are currently in prototype testing. TTPi is now working towards Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 and samples will be available for third-party testing in Q2 2025. The company plans to undertake a second investment round late next year.

In addition, TTPi recently unveiled its new advisory board, which includes Professor Jon Clare, Emeritus Professor of Power Electronics at the University of Nottingham and a leading international authority on the subject. He is joined by Dr Simon Hart, an Honorary Associate Professor (Electrification of Transportation) and an Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Nottingham, who has held senior positions at several technology companies, and Riona Armesmith, CTO at magniX, a company that is pioneering the development of electric aircraft.

TTPi was founded in 2017 and spun out of the University of Nottingham in 2020.

Arnold Shoezone under closure threat as firm blames Budget tax and wage rises for decision to shut some stores

Emily Sanchez
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Arnold Shoezone under closure threat as firm blames Budget tax and wage rises for decision to shut some stores

Several jobs in Gedling borough could be under threat as a major footwear retailer announces plans to close stores across the country.

Shoe Zone has 297 stores across the UK including including a branch on Arnold’s Front Street.

A spokesperson for Shoe Zone said it will close stores that have now become unviable blaming Labour’s budget plans.

There are also shoe shops in Malvern, Kidderminster Bromsgrove and Redditch.

Shoe Zone has already closed one-third of its shops in the last four years, dropping from 460 locations in October 2020.

Several loss-making stores in the UK have already closed in 2024, with 53 shops closing between January and September this year, while only 27 new locations opened in the same period.

In a statement, the group said the Chancellor’s move to increase employers’ National Insurance contributions and the minimum wage has led to significant additional costs.

“These additional costs have resulted in the planned closure of a number of stores that have now become unviable.”

The number of stores that could close and the number of jobs that are at risk has not been revealed.

Rivendell care home bowls team on a roll after being crowned champions in inter-care home competition

Gedling Eye
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Rivendell care home bowls team on a roll after being crowned champions in inter-care home competition

Residents from Rivendell View care home have been crowned champions of an inter care home bowls competition.

Going head-to-head with Edwalton Manor Care Home and Willowbrook care home, the Rivendell View residents’ bowls team scooped up first place, beating the competition for a second year.

85-year-old Rivendell View player, Sylvia Parker, said, ‘I’m so pleased we won, I can’t wait to go back home and share our news with the other residents.’

The Home Manager at Rivendell View, Lisa Tungate, added, ‘It’s so important to us that our residents feel part of the community, and they always enjoy meeting new people and forming friendships.

‘We’re very proud of our fantastic bowls team, but we’re even happier that they enjoyed the day so much! We’re looking forward to seeing everyone again soon.’

Residents at Rivendell View are inviting the local community to and evening of mulled wine and mince pies on Friday 20th December from 18:00. All are welcome to come along, free of charge, for a night of festivities.

Transforming locations into co-ordinates with Geocoding API

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Transforming locations into co-ordinates with Geocoding API

In the era of advanced mapping technologies, converting locations into precise coordinates has become a cornerstone for a wide range of applications. The Geocoding API empowers developers to seamlessly transform addresses into geographic coordinates, enabling innovative solutions for navigation, logistics, and location-based services. By leveraging this API, developers can build powerful applications that rely on accurate geospatial data.

Enabling Precision in Mapping Applications

Accurate mapping is essential for delivering reliable user experiences, whether it’s for navigation apps, delivery services, or location-based marketing. The Geocoding API provides the tools necessary to achieve precision in these applications.

Delivering Accurate Navigation

By converting addresses into exact coordinates, developers can:

  • Provide turn-by-turn navigation with minimal errors
  • Offer real-time route optimization
  • Enhance the reliability of delivery tracking systems

These features improve user satisfaction and operational efficiency for businesses relying on geospatial data. For instance, logistics companies benefit immensely from real-time route optimization, reducing fuel costs and ensuring deliveries arrive on time. Similarly, ride-hailing apps leverage precise geocoding to accurately locate passengers and destinations, improving overall customer experience.

Supporting Regional Specificity

The Geocoding API allows developers to handle regional variations in address formatting, ensuring that applications function effectively across different locales. This capability is critical for global businesses aiming to reach diverse audiences.

Address systems vary greatly from country to country. For example:

  • In Japan, addresses may emphasize blocks and building numbers over street names.
  • In the United States, the ZIP code and street name are central.
  • In many rural areas worldwide, addresses are less structured and may require additional localization.

The Geocoding API’s support for regional specificity allows applications to adapt dynamically, ensuring accurate results regardless of the location. This flexibility enhances the global usability of mapping solutions.

Simplifying Address-to-Coordinate Conversion

Converting addresses into usable geographic data can be complex, but the Geocoding API simplifies this process with its intuitive design and comprehensive functionality.

Streamlining Development

The API offers straightforward methods for:

  • Inputting structured or unstructured address data
  • Retrieving latitude and longitude coordinates instantly
  • Handling partial or ambiguous addresses with ease

These features save developers time and reduce the complexity of geospatial data integration. For example, an e-commerce platform can quickly determine a customer’s delivery location, even if the input is incomplete or formatted incorrectly, ensuring accurate and timely order fulfillment.

Enhancing Developer Productivity

The Geocoding API’s easy-to-integrate design reduces the development time required for location-based applications. With clear documentation and powerful tools, developers can focus more on application functionality rather than managing raw geospatial data. Moreover, APIs often support various formats (like JSON or XML), making it simple to integrate the geocoding results into existing systems.

Ensuring High Data Accuracy

By leveraging advanced algorithms and vast datasets, the Geocoding API delivers highly accurate results. This accuracy is crucial for applications that depend on precise location information, such as emergency services or urban planning tools.

Critical Use Cases for Accuracy

  1. Emergency Services: In situations where seconds matter, precise location information is essential. Emergency response applications can quickly identify coordinates from an address, enabling responders to arrive faster.
  2. Urban Planning: Municipalities and developers can use geocoding to analyze population distribution, optimize traffic flow, and plan infrastructure projects.
  3. Utilities Management: Organizations managing water, power, or communication systems benefit from accurate location data to maintain and monitor their networks effectively.

By delivering consistent, high-quality results, the Geocoding API becomes a reliable foundation for applications where accuracy directly impacts outcomes.

Supporting Geospatial Data Integration

Integrating geospatial data into applications can unlock new opportunities for innovation. The Geocoding API provides the resources developers need to incorporate location intelligence seamlessly.

Enhancing Data Interoperability

The API supports integration with:

  • Mapping platforms like Google Maps or OpenStreetMap
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for advanced analysis
  • Backend systems for location-based analytics

This interoperability ensures that applications can leverage geospatial data effectively across various platforms and use cases. For example, a retail business can combine geocoding data with customer purchasing trends to identify the best locations for new stores.

Connecting Data to Insights

Location-based data can provide actionable insights that drive decision-making. Businesses can:

  • Identify high-demand areas for targeted marketing
  • Analyze geographic trends in customer behavior
  • Optimize logistics by visualizing routes and delivery times

The ability to integrate location data across systems empowers organizations to make data-driven decisions that improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Building Scalable Solutions

With support for high volumes of requests, the Geocoding API enables developers to build scalable applications that grow with user demand. Whether serving a local user base or a global audience, the API is designed to handle it.

For applications experiencing exponential growth, such as food delivery platforms or global navigation systems, scalability is non-negotiable. The Geocoding API’s ability to process thousands of requests simultaneously ensures a smooth user experience even under high load conditions.

Facilitating Real-Time Location Services

Real-time location services are transforming industries, from transportation to retail. The Geocoding API empowers developers to create dynamic, real-time applications that enhance user experiences and operational capabilities.

Powering Live Updates

By integrating real-time geocoding capabilities, applications can:

  • Track moving assets like vehicles or shipments
  • Update users with live location information
  • Provide location-aware notifications and alerts

These features keep users informed and engaged, fostering trust and satisfaction. For example, delivery apps can provide minute-by-minute updates on package locations, while transportation services can show live vehicle positions on a map.

Supporting Industry-Specific Innovations

Industries such as retail, entertainment, and education are increasingly relying on location-based technologies. Examples include:

  • Retail: Offering location-based promotions when users are near a store
  • Entertainment: Enhancing augmented reality (AR) gaming experiences
  • Education: Enabling location-specific learning modules or field trip planning

The Geocoding API’s capabilities open doors to innovative solutions that add unique value to users.

Enabling Location-Based Innovations

From augmented reality experiences to location-driven marketing campaigns, the Geocoding API supports cutting-edge innovations that rely on precise geospatial data. Developers can explore new possibilities and create applications that redefine user interactions.

Location intelligence has become a key enabler of digital transformation. Businesses that incorporate location-aware features gain a competitive advantage by improving customer experiences, increasing operational efficiency, and exploring new opportunities for growth.

Transforming locations into coordinates with the Geocoding API is a game-changer for developers aiming to build advanced, location-based applications. By enabling precision in mapping, simplifying address conversion, supporting geospatial integration, and facilitating real-time services, the Geocoding API empowers developers to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of today’s dynamic digital landscape. With accuracy, scalability, and interoperability at its core, the Geocoding API sets the standard for building smarter, location-driven applications.

NHS makes vaccination plea to Gedling borough residents as flu hospitalisation cases rise

Gedling Eye
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NHS makes vaccination plea to Gedling borough residents as flu hospitalisation cases rise

Health bosses are urging Gedling borough residents to get vaccinated against the flu after it was revealed hospitalisation cases are on the rise.

They revealed that 123 patients were admitted at Nottingham University Hospitals Trust as of December 8, compared to 67 two weeks earlier.

Figures from Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust show around a doubling of cases in October and November compared to the same time last year.

And national figures from the UK Health Security Agency showed a doubling of hospitalisations last week compared to the week before.

Data also shows that flu prevalence is highest in those aged between 5 and 14 years.

The hospital trusts are taking action, including opening up winter wards, re-introducing masks for staff in emergency departments and having a rapid diagnosis for flu and other winter illnesses.

Dr Dave Briggs, Medical Director at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “Flu is circulating more than at the same time last year, so it’s really important to get vaccinated if you are eligible.

“With the data showing that a high rate of young people are being affected, we’re also urging parents to take up the offer of the nasal spray flu vaccine for their children.

“If you have a long-term condition and you catch flu this winter, you may reduce your chances of being hospitalised by up to a third, just by getting vaccinated.”

People can book an appointment on the NHS App, phone 119 or online at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

You can reduce the spread of flu by washing your hands often with warm water and soap, covering your mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze and binning used tissues as quickly as possible.

Gedling borough residents warned over Winter Heating Allowance text scam

Emily Sanchez
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Gedling borough residents warned over Winter Heating Allowance text scam

Residents are being warned about a text scam doing the rounds in Gedling borough and also across the county.

Nottinghamshire County Council said they had received reports of local people receiving scam text messages relating to the winter heating allowance and cost of living support.

The fake messages advise recipients that they are eligible for a winter heating allowance and must act quickly to avoid missing out, by clicking on a link to apply.

man on phone
The fake messages advise recipients that they are eligible for a winter heating allowance and must act quickly to avoid missing out (PICTURE: Deposit Photos)

A spokesman for the Trading Standards team said: “Whilst the text message might appear legitimate, it is actually a sophisticated scam designed to collect the recipient’s personal and financial information.

“Our Trading Standards team is reminding people that the Winter Fuel Payment is applied automatically to eligible residents, and no action is required by the recipient.”

“If you have received a scam message and made a payment, contact your bank as soon as possible to cancel the payment.”

If you receive a scam text message you can forward it to the National Cyber Security Service on 7726. You can also report scam text messages by emailing a screenshot of the text message to report@phishing.gov.uk.

Notts councils face axe in major overhaul of local government

Gedling Eye
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Notts councils face axe in major overhaul of local government

Gedling Borough Council could be scrapped after the Labour government revealed an overhaul which would bring the biggest local government shake-up in 50 years.

A paper published yesterday (16) confirmed the government’s intention to scrap councils across the country in a bid to “streamline local government to focus on delivering for residents”.

Under the reforms two-tier council areas will be abolished and replaced by new unitary councils and ‘strategic authorities’.

In a speech to an audience of regional mayors, local government and business leaders, the Deputy Prime Minister will say that the proposals in the English Devolution White Paper will put England’s regions centre stage and deliver on the government’s mission to grow the economy and our milestone of building 1.5 million homes and will boost opportunity across the country. 

Measures expected to be announced later today include plans for new powers for mayors across strategic planning – giving them the ability to guide infrastructure and developmentprojects across areas, housing, transport and skills. 

At a launch event yesterday Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner, said “Our English Devolution White Paper will be a turning point when we finally see communities, people and places across England begin to take back control over the things that matter to them. 

“When our proud towns and cities are once again given the powers they need to drive growth and raise living standards as part of our Plan for Change. 

“It’s a plan for putting more money in people’s pockets, putting politics back in the service of working people and a plan for stability, investment and reform, not chaos, austerity and decline, that will deliver a decade of national renewal.  

“Devolution will no longer be agreed at the whim of a Minister in Whitehall, but embedded in the fabric of the country, becoming the default position of government.” 

Currently Nottinghamshire County Council is responsible for services such as adult social care, children’s services, libraries, museums and running tips, while borough and districts deal with housing, leisure centres and parks. Unitary authorities would run all services.

A mayor would have control over ‘big ticket’ items such as housing, planning and transport.

The government said most new unitary authorities will cover populations of 500,000 or more – which Nottinghamshire has.

The government is now inviting areas to submit proposals for reorganisation, but has stressed it does not want “competing proposals”.

Previous attempts at local government reorganisation caused bad blood.

Back in 2018 the then-leader of Nottinghamshire County Council Kay Cutts proposed creating a ‘super council’ and scrapping the county’s borough and district councils.

Arnold Foodbank calls for most-needed items in run up to Christmas

Emily Sanchez
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Arnold Foodbank calls for most-needed items in run up to Christmas

Arnold Foodbank is asking local residents to help families in need by donating essential items currently in short supply.

These items include soup, tinned veg and fruit, noodles and coffee.

A spokesman for the foodbank said: “Due to the current ‘cost of living crisis’ we are not receiving the same amount of donation that we have been regularly receiving for many years.

“We recognise that people are struggling to afford food for themselves and so food donations to Arnold Foodbank has dropped by 20%.

Arnold Foodbank
The foodbank has released a list of items most needed (IMAGE: Google)

“We regularly need to buy food to keep our shelves stocked (we bought more stock last year than in the previous five years combined) and so are very grateful to those who give us financial donations.

“We are very grateful for anything donated for our clients, however small the donation is, every little helps.”

The items the foodbank need that are in short supply…

Tinned Meat – corned beef, hotdogs and chilli
Pasta Sauces Tinned Fish
Squash/Juice Tinned Fruit and Rice Pudding/Custard
Tinned Veg – carrots,sweetcorn and peas
Toiletries (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and toilet rolls)
Soup
Coffee
Chocolate
UHT Milk

The spokesman added: “We are after anything except pasta, baked beans, pulses and rice!
We are also always in need of carrier bags, ‘Bags for Life’ and if anyone has any shopping trolleys, they no longer require, we would be very grateful for those too.”

Where can I donate items?


Daybrook Baptist Church
13.00 – 15.00 Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Arnold Methodist Church (AMC)
Asda, Arnold
Mon – Fri – 07.00 – 23.00
Saturday – 07.00 – 21.00
Sunday – 10.00 – 16.00
Asda Express & Petrol Station
06.00 – 22.00 – every Day

For In-store donations of Asda items, Asda donates 20% of the value of the donations given when bought in-store only.

New kitchen from Howdens Arnold set to boost Calverton FC

David Bratton
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New kitchen from Howdens Arnold set to boost Calverton FC

​Calverton Football Club was selected to receive a free Howdens kitchen as part of their Game Changer Programme, and the brand new kitchen is now in place.

The facilities have been put in place as part of a £3M investment programme to improve clubhouse facilities across the UK by Howdens and England Football.

Calverton Football Club is one of 450 clubs to benefit from the scheme.

Located on Hollinwood Lane, the fantastic new kitchen at Calverton Miners Welfare was unveiled by Howdens Arnold last week after it was selected from hundreds of applications seeking Howdens and England Football’s support. 

With 23 football teams and over 200 players, Calverton Football Club supports a diverse range of teams covering boys, girls, inclusive and senior teams.

The club offers a Football School from aged four, with its first team being their Under 7s upwards.

Established in 1988, the club was awarded the grant due to its deep-rooted connection to the local community.

Supported by the Calverton Parish Council and local schools, the club has been recognised for its inclusive approach and open to all policy.

Councillor launches campaign for pedestrian crossing near Netherfield school after child hit by car

David Bratton
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Councillor launches campaign for pedestrian crossing near Netherfield school after child hit by car

A councillor is calling for a crossing to be installed near a school in Netherfield to improve safety for families on foot after learning a child was hit by a car.

Cllr Mike Adams represents Carlton East on Nottinghamshire County Council and was at Netherfield Primary School with Nottinghamshire Police to look out for dangerous parking on Chandos Street when he learnt of the accident that prompted him to start the petition.

Mr Adams said today’s visit was organised after he received complaints from parents about the irresponsible parking on the street near the school.

In a social media post, Cllr Adams wrote: “Thank you to Nottinghamshire Police this morning for their support at the school gates in Netherfield.

“Having received reports from both the school and local parents about some of the irresponsible parking on Chandos Street, action was needed.

Cllr Adams is calling for a crossing to be installed outside Netherfield Primary School on Chandos Street (PHOTO: Facebook/Mike Adams)

“Notts Police came to support me in educating drivers on the right way to park when dropping off their children.

“This continues work they have been doing across Carlton East in supporting safer school times.

“It was a credit to local parents this morning for excellent parking, with only one driver who was spoken too and the great news is, we will be continuing it across the coming months in all of my five schools.

The five schools in his area are St John the Baptist in Colwick, Burton Joyce Primary in Burton Joyce, Carlton Le Willows in Gedling and Rivendell Flying High Primary on the Rivendell estate.

Cllr Adams said he will now campaign for a new crossing.

He posted: “I was saddened to learn today, from a parent on site about an incident where a child was knocked over outside by a vehicle fairly recently.

“I will now campaign for a crossing to aid in the safety of children accessing the school.

In the introduction to the new petition, Cllr Adams wrote: “This petition seeks to ensure the safety of our children by installing a raised pedestrian crossing on Chandos Street, a vital step that will curb the risk of such tragic accidents happening in the future.

“Based on traffic management studies, raised pedestrian crossings significantly reduce speeds, improving driver recognition of pedestrian crossings, thus enhancing safety. A raised crossing allows for better visibility of pedestrians to incoming traffic, offers psychological cues to drivers to slow down and yields particularly effective results in areas close to schools.

“By endorsing this petition, it will help me in my campaign and urgency by installing this raised pedestrian crossing on Chandos Street. Stand with me, in ensuring the safety of our children and the peace of mind for parents and our community.”

You can sign the petition here: https://chng.it/fmxMVsGRQg

If you have any issues about road safety in the area you can email cllr.mike.adams@nottscc.gov.uk

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