Domin, the Bristol firm developing cutting-edge hydraulic systems for industries spanning aerospace, motorsports and robotics, is looking to extend its presence in the Asia-Pacific region after being granted a patent in China.
The firm, which last year opened a technology centre at Pucklechurch, secured patents for its ground-breaking S4 Pro technology in the UK and US last year. 
Now it is targeting the huge Far East market, describing the Chinese patent as a significant milestone in strengthening its position as an innovator in hydraulics.
As the smallest direct drive valve in the world, Domin believes the S4 Pro is a game-changer in its applications anywhere that space is limited but performance is critical.
The firm is utilising new enabling tools such as metal 3D printing, brushless DC motors, high-speed digital electronics and control to develop hydraulic products that can change the way industries use motion control.
Last month Domin exhibited at the Farnborough International Airshow to get its technology in front of the world’s leading aerospace companies as they step up their efforts to make aircraft lighter and so lessen the impact of flying on climate change.
Domin CTO Simon Jones described extending its UK and US patents to China as “incredible” as it looks to continue to strengthen its position as industry leader.
“We are committed to leading the charge on bringing the fluid power industry into a modern, electrified, sustainable world,” he added.
“The extension of this patent to China really does reflect the expertise and dedication of the team here at Domin. This innovative technology is transforming the high-performance servo valve market.”
The S4 Pro is a high-performance servo proportional valve featuring a direct drive design that delivers unmatched accuracy and responsiveness in motion control applications.
The patent encompasses the distinctive and innovative aspects of the S4 Pro, particularly its rotary valve architecture, which provides Domin with the legal framework to prevent any unauthorised manufacturing or sale of products that infringe the technology in China.
Last year Domin was chosen to take part in the government’s £35m Project LandONE to revolutionise aircraft actuation systems, develop more electric aircraft and promote more sustainable air travel.
It was also awarded £4.4m to take part in a research project that could revolutionise electric vehicle performance.
The firm is working with Mercedes-Benz subsidiary YASA and Cranfield University on the initiative called Project Additive, which aims to develop integrated wheel motor and active suspension technology that will deliver new levels of electric vehicle performance.
Domin will adapt its world-class active suspension systems to integrate with YASA’s axial technology to give drivers ground-breaking performance and enable vehicles to go further in more comfort.
This will reduce one of the challenges for electric vehicle owners as it will also achieve 10% more range.
