Uniphy smart surfaces technology. Source | Uniphy

Uniphy (Leeds, U.K.), a company developing smart surfaces technology that could replace dashboard controls in cars and transform the way we operate appliances, has raised an additional £3 million to help prepare for mass production. The funding is from existing investors NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), and Mercia’s own funds.

Uniphy’s “smart surfaces” combine mainstream technologies such as optics, photonics, materials, mechanics, semiconductors, software and Al. They enable controls to be built into 3D panels of any shape so users can find the right function by touch alone. This offers a safer option than touchscreens in vehicles as it allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road, and it is more slick and hygienic than buttons, as well as being cheaper to produce.

Uniphy’s technology works with any standard plastic and or glass surface and can incorporate vibrations or voice feedback. It uses standard manufacturing processes which keeps costs down and is highly recyclable. It also works in the presence of liquids which make it suitable for marine cockpits or domestic hobs and washing machines.

The technology has already been successfully trialed by Hyundai and Grupo Antolin, which are now exploring ways to incorporate it into their vehicles. The fresh investment will now enable Uniphy to develop its own integrated chip in preparation for mass manufacturing and miniaturize its technology for use in mobile applications.

Uniphy was founded by microelectronics experts David Lomas and David Dean in 2015. The company, which is based in Leeds with an R&D center in Swindon, now employs 15 staff and expects to create five new jobs in the year ahead. The latest round brings the total it has raised to date to more than £13 million.

“As humans we spend much of our lives interacting with machines — on our mobiles, in our cars or our homes — but the limitations of current controls can make it a frustrating experience,” says Jim Nicholas, CEO of Uniphy. “Uniphy’s technology offers designers the freedom to create new, more intuitive interfaces and transform the way we engage with machines.”

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIFII) covers the entire North of England. Its purpose is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses.