2026 – Project SCORE
Objective
The SCORE project was created to address the growing demand for innovation in marine propulsion within an industrial landscape increasingly focused on advanced and sustainable technological solutions. Its primary objective is to develop an intelligent electronic control system designed to improve maneuvering operations and increase energy efficiency, in line with European and international regulations promoting environmental and operational sustainability. The project represents a significant contribution to strengthening the region’s manufacturing ecosystem, renowned for its high technological standards and global competitiveness.
SCORE aims to:
- Integrate an advanced electronic steering and control system with the innovative Bivortix vertical-axis cycloidal propulsion system.
- Bring to market a technology capable of meeting the demand for versatile, efficient propulsion systems that ensure precise maneuvering.
- Foster local skill development and create new industrial synergies by stimulating collaboration between regional manufacturing companies and research centers.
Specific Objectives:
- Design and develop a “smart” steering and control system for the Bivortix thruster.
- Build an advanced model integrating control and propulsion functions.
- Conduct thorough testing—initially bench testing and subsequently sea trials—using an experimental vessel equipped with the Bivortix prototypes (BVX 500 and 750) already developed in previous research projects.
Currently, Bivortix technology has reached TRL 6/7, demonstrating outstanding performance such as a high thrust-to-power ratio, an estimated fuel consumption reduction of up to 30%, and exceptional maneuverability. Integrating it with an intelligent control system will transform this innovation into a comprehensive, scalable solution for the marine market.
Type of activity:
Industrial research
Date of project:
4 September 2026 – 4 July 2027
2018 – Project ACTIVE
Objective
The river and inner water channels commercial transportation generates lower emissions, less noise pollution and is more fuel efficient than road transportation. The research project ACTIVE originated from the necessity of the operators to modernize the existing inner water fleet. ACTIVE aimed, through the contribution of the three partners Navalprogetti, TPP and UniTS, at defining a new concept of inner water vessels characterised by low investment and maintenance costs, reduced emission of pollutants with the ultimate objective of revamping inner water navigation. UniTS has studied a variation for passenger transportation and different variations of engines. The reference vessel has a Va CEMT classification for Containership/coils transportation.
Main innovation points
The main innovation points researched have been: An innovative fluidodynamic systems (Air Cavity System) which significantly reduce water resistance and consequently the power installed. An innovative water water propulsion system (Bivortix) based on cycloidal propulsors with multiple paddles and characterised by higher overall efficiencies than those currently commercialized. LNG propulsion ensuring reduction of pollutants. Flexibility of design and conversion for different types of load.
Type of activity:
Industrial research
Date of project:
3 April 2017 – 28 November 2018
Partners: Navalprogetti, UniTS
2016 – Project BVX 2
Objective
The research project BVX 2 aimed at studying specific adaptations of the innovative water propulsion system to offshore platforms governed by Dynamic Positioning Systems, and to transportation vessels operating in confined waters (vaporetti), allowing reduced maneuvering times and resulting in greater operational efficiency, safety and fuel economy. BVX 2 is the evolution of the experiences gained in the previous project BVX which has yielded first indications which were positive but partial and generic.
Main innovation points
The main innovation points researched have been: the realization of a scaled variant of the innovative water propulsion system. The realization of 2 additional modules that have lengthened the experimental boat carrying the innovative water propulsion system. The execution of tests at sea and in the naval basin of the University of Trieste which allowed the definition of the specific adaptation of the dimensions and characteristics of the innovative propulsion system.
Type of activity:
Industrial research
Date of project:
1 February 2015 – 30 April 2016
Partners: , DITENAVE (MareFVG), UniTS, SISSA, AREA Science Park
2013 – Project BVX 1
Objective
The traditional screw propeller is a valid propulsion system but demonstrates limits in terms of maneuverability, fuel efficiency and respect of the environment. The research project BVX originated from the necessity of the operators to have a highly maneuverable for tugs, transportation vessels and support vessels in general. BVX aimed at studying an innovative water propulsion system allowing significantly higher maneuverability.
Main innovation points
The main innovation points researched have been: the realization of an innovative water propulsion system. The realization of an experimental boat carrying the innovative water propulsion system and serving as floating laboratory. The execution of tests at sea, in the naval basin of the University of Trieste and Vienna to study the performances.
Type of activity:
Industrial research
Date of project:
17 January 2012 – 16 April 2013