UK Government's Top Scientist Praises Cambridge-Based AI Engine for Electric Motors
Professor Chris Johnson, the UK's Chief Scientific Adviser for the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), has lauded the work of Cambridge-based company Monumo, praising their AI-powered engine for its potential to revolutionise electric motor design.
Johnson, who recently took on the role of DSIT's Chief Scientific Advisor, visited Monumo's headquarters to witness a demonstration of their Anser engine, a pioneering technology that leverages machine learning to optimise motor design. The visit coincided with the company's recent award of nearly £1 million in government funding, a testament to the potential of their innovative approach to electric vehicle (EV) technology.
With over 20 years of experience in engineering and physical sciences, Johnson brings a wealth of knowledge to the DSIT. His impressive background includes prestigious fellowships with NASA and the US Air Force, as well as a key role in establishing cybersecurity labs for the UK's civil nuclear industry. Currently, he serves as Pro Vice-Chancellor for Engineering and Physical Sciences at Queen's University Belfast.
"I am committed to working across government to champion a âwhole of societyâ approach to innovation," Johnson stated upon assuming his role. "Our mission to embrace disruptive technologies, leverage research to drive economic growth, and grasp opportunities for international collaboration will create a safe, secure, and thriving future for all."
Monumo, founded in 2018 by former Arm executive Dominic Vergine, embodies this commitment to disruptive innovation. Based at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, the company is a deeptech firm specialising in software-driven engineering, with a specific focus on developing the world's most efficient electric motors.
Their Anser engine differentiates itself by minimising human bias and preconceptions through AI-driven design optimisation, working at a system level to achieve the best possible engineering solutions. By running up to 10 million simulations daily, Anser pinpoints the optimal parameters for specific use cases, whether it be reducing costs, increasing efficiency, or enhancing sustainability.
Johnson was highly impressed by Monumo's work, highlighting their innovative use of machine learning to drive cost reductions and performance improvements throughout the product lifecycle. "Their focus on delivering value through knowledge sharing and collaboration will benefit technology and engineering operations across the country," he stated. "The use of computational methods to drive product optimisation will safeguard the future social and economic prosperity of this nation."
Vergine, CEO and founder of Monumo, echoed Johnson's sentiments, expressing pride in their team's dedication to leveraging deeptech methods for electric motor redesign. "Driven by a desire to move the needle on decarbonisation, our technology has numerous applications across complex engineering problems. We are initially focused on the EV market, seeking to drive wider adoption through optimisation," he explained.
The impact of Monumo's technology is significant, with even a 5% improvement in motor efficiency translating to a reduction in emissions equivalent to the combined output of France and Germany. "We are intent on using AI and ML to benefit society and help build towards a more sustainable future," Vergine concluded.
The visit by the UK's Chief Scientific Adviser and the subsequent praise for Monumo's work underscore the company's position at the forefront of innovation in electric motor technology. As the UK continues its efforts towards a greener future, Monumo's Anser engine holds the potential to play a pivotal role in achieving this goal, driving progress in both efficiency and sustainability.