The Raw Material Radar (RMR) consortium recently convened for an in-person meeting in Salzburg to align on technological progress, refine the Go-to-Market (GTM) strategy, and coordinate logistics for the upcoming Pilot 2 deployment.
Hosted by ECT and coordinated by FBK, the meeting brought together representatives from FBK, ECT, Minespider, and HIT for collaborative testing and strategic discussions.
Technical Progress: From Pilot 1 to a Field-Ready Solution
The morning session was dedicated to testing improved versions of the RMR devices and app. Each of the three core components—the scale, the barrel sensor, and the mobile app—underwent design and functional upgrades following the lessons learned from Pilot 1.
RMR Scale: Reinforced for the Field
The RMR scale now features a redesigned internal board, which improves compactness and resilience. Weak components that failed during previous transport and field testing were replaced, and the outer casing was also updated for improved usability.
Barrel Sensor: Built to Last
Concerns around sensor damage during shipping led to the development of two new casing versions—one in metal and another 3D printed. Both designs aim to protect internal components without adding operational complexity. The on/off button was removed to prevent accidental deactivation.
RMR App v2: Smarter, Cleaner Interface
Version 2 of the RMR app reflects direct feedback from consortium members. Updates include improved UI flow, simplified navigation, and more intuitive visuals. During the meeting, the app was tested live, and new feedback was gathered for future refinements.
Strategic Planning: GTM and Deployment
In the afternoon, attention shifted to commercial readiness and logistics for Pilot 2. ECT and HIT facilitated a deep-dive session on the Go-to-Market strategy, with discussions focused on pricing models, market targeting, and positioning for post-pilot adoption.
A preliminary logistics plan for Pilot 2 was also drafted. FBK will be responsible for producing 10 RMR scales and 5 barrel sensors by the end of May. These will be shipped to Liberia for on-field use, while two backup kits will be sent to ECT’s headquarters in Germany for training and troubleshooting purposes.
Key Outcomes
- Successful hands-on testing of updated RMR scale, barrel sensor, and app
- Direct feedback from partners will be used to improve device readiness before deployment
- Agreement on the number and delivery timeline of devices for Pilot 2
- Strategic alignment on GTM messaging and market priorities
- Draft of the logistics and training plan for Liberia deployment
Next Steps
- FBK will complete production of devices by May 31, 2025
- FBK will coordinate shipment with support from ECT & ECT will continue with field training, and ongoing deployment with UCP local staff
- Feedback from the meeting will be analyzed and integrated by FBK ahead of Pilot 2
- ECT, HIT, and Minespider will continue refining the GTM presentation for the May EIT review
- Market engagement and budget planning are ongoing
Overall, the Salzburg meeting marked a critical step forward for RMR as the project moves from development to real-world testing. The progress made across hardware, software, and strategy reaffirms the project’s potential and strengthens its path toward impact in the responsible raw materials sector.
Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the launch of Pilot 2.
