Polynode is a physics consultancy which helps companies advance their technical capabilities. We are experts in solving complicated, difficult or ambiguous problems in the processing and interpretation of physical data.

We help our clients solve complex data processing and analysis problems, using a blend of physics, mathematics, software engineering, and business focus. We often develop software, but we're not a conventional IT company. Our core capability is in identifying where advanced mathematical and software methods can make a significant impact, and then developing solutions that deliver this value. Our work covers the following areas

  • Identifying opportunities: Working collaboratively with our clients to identify where new approaches can deliver value.
  • Rapid technical progress: Iterative investigation, development and testing of technical solutions, blending mathematics and software techniques.
  • Building solutions: Developing robust software components and applications for everyday use, either on our own or working with other software developers.

Specialised Areas

Antenna Simulation, Design and Test

To successfully design an antenna and radome system you have to understand the requirements of the whole system and use a wide range of techniques to produce a design that will meet the specification.

We have experience in the simulation, design and test of antennas from 1 - 100 GHz including:

  • Antennas: For example AESA, patch, reflectors, monopulse and tracking radar antennas.
  • Radome design and test: Radome design, using simulation, oversee of manufacture and test in an appropriate setting.
  • Simulation: Bespoke numerical simulations, and use of electromangetic simulation packages such as HFSS and CST.
  • Antenna test: Bench testing, anechoic chambers, compact ranges and free space ranges .
  • Test data: Analysis of test and simulation data to inform design and manufacture.

Signal Processing

Signal processing encompasses a wide range of techniques and approaches which can help extract useful information from sensor data. Many of the mathematical methods translate well between very different applications, so our broad experience helps us select the most effective set of tools to solve any particular problem.

Examples of our experience in signal processing include:

  • Radar and RF comms: Processing of RF signals, including modulation/demodulation, moving target detection and identification.
  • Acoustic signals: Analysis of audio signals to extract information, e.g. about the performance of mechanical systems.
  • Video tracking: Motion tracking and analysis using video data.
  • Spectroscopy: Optimal data reduction, signal detection and measurement with spectroscopy data.
  • Image processing: Background subtraction, noise reduction, frequency space methods for image registration and alignment.
  • Processing sensor data: Analysis of data from networks of sensors.

Simulation and Modelling

Numerical simulation and modelling creates a model of a real-world situation that can be used to investigate structural, internal and external influences to the system.

We have experience in writing and analysing data from a range of simulations in different industries including:

  • Complex system simulation: Processing of RF signals, including modulation/demodulation, moving target detection and identification.
  • Image analysis: Analysis of audio signals to extract information, e.g. about the performance of mechanical systems.
  • Ray tracing techniques: Using equations to model how an electromagnetic wave will pass through a system.
  • Antenna and radome modelling: Writing bespoke numerical simulations to represent how different antenna systems work and how a radome can impact on their performance.

Inertial Sensors and Human Motion

Low cost inertial sensors (i.e. accelerometers and gyros) can be used for a variety of motion analysis applications. However, getting useful, reliable information from these sensors remains difficult – the sensors produced data which is noisy and unstable, and some seemingly straightforward applications need sophisticated signal processing.

We understand both the promise and the pitfalls of inertial sensors. Our expertise and experience includes:

  • Data fusion: Developing core algorithms and software to process sensor data, and hence track the motion of a device. Designing Kalman filter and particle filter systems, to cope with high dynamics and magnetic field distortion inside buildings.
  • Feasibility studies: Rapid assessment of the accuracy and reliability of different possible system designs.
  • Test and validation: Testing and validating algorithms and systems, both using simulation and real-world testing.

Automated Image Analysis

The continuing growth of computing power is opening up automated image analysis applications in new areas, often replacing tedious, time consuming and error prone manual analysis. Often, moving to an automated process can provide benefits not only in saved time, but also in terms of accuracy and repeatability. Computer based approaches are also more clearly free of bias, and generally provide quantitative measurements.

Our experience spans a number of domains, with a particular focus on analysis of images from life sciences applications:

  • Image processing: Techniques for processing of images including removal of instrumental artefacts, background subtraction, image registration and alignment.
  • Object detection and classification: Detecting and classifying objects within an image, using a variety of methods.
  • Measurement: Accurate measurement of objects features, including overlapping objects.
  • Region identification: Identification of regions of interest within large images.

Location, Positioning, and Tracking

A wide variety of technologies are used for navigation and tracking applications, including inertial sensing, GPS and radar. Whilst the underlying technologies may be quite different, the mathematical and software tools to analyse the data have many commonalities.

Our expertise includes:

  • Pedestrian tracking: Development of methods for accurate and reliable tracking of pedestrians using low-cost inertial sensors.
  • Data fusion: Developing core algorithms and software to process sensor data, including fusion of data from diverse sources. This includes inertial, GPS and radar data processing.
  • Feasibility studies: Assessment of tracking and location system performance.
  • Test and validation: Testing and validating algorithms and systems, both using simulation and real-world testing.

Training

We offer a range of training services for individuals and companies in engineering. These cover technical and business training and are always bespoke to requirements. To have effective training it is important that the trainer understands the subject and the audience. As physicists we understand the unique audience in engineering companies and can deliver both technical and business training that is effective and appropriate. If you are interested in training for individuals, groups or your company please get in touch to discuss.

Who We Are

Polynode was founded by consultant physicists Tamara Clelford and Ian Sheret.

Dr Tamara Clelford

LinkedIn     Google Scholar

My journey started at the University of Sheffield studying physics and astronomy, completing the lifelong ambition of the 5 year old me who wanted to be a physicist! I then studied astrophysics at post graduate level at the University of Leeds, and during this time observed on world class telescopes in Hawaii, Australia and Chile. I then qualified as a physics teacher through the University of Cambridge and taught physics in state schools.

I moved into the defence industry as an antenna expert and worked as both a systems engineer and a hardware and test engineer on many different systems on frequencies from 1 to 100 GHz. I worked closely with external companies and other departments both in the UK and in Europe. In addition to my technical job I was responsible for the recruitment and development of apprentices and graduates, this included both their technical and business skills. I gained a PhD in antenna test and design through Queen Mary University London. I then worked at a start-up as a data scientist for an InsureTech company.

In 2018 I started working as a freelance consultant physicist.

Dr Ian Sheret

LinkedIn     Google Scholar

Ian Sheret may have started out as an astrophysicist, but he now focuses his problem-solving energies working on the (mainly) earthbound challenges of companies and organisations.

Ian has worked in technology consulting for the last twenty years, developing effective solutions for organisations large and small. He has worked in industries from pharmaceuticals and consumer goods though to transport, utilities networks and the space industry, including worldwide brands such as GSK, Astrazeneca, and Unilever.

In 2009 Ian formed Polymath Insight Ltd., working to help companies and organisations solve some of their most important challenges by using innovative mathematics and software. Despite holding a PhD. in astronomy from the University of Edinburgh he can only identify three constellations, falling to one if you transport him to the southern hemisphere.

Contact

Every great collaboration starts with a conversation.

Email
info@polynode.co.uk

Polynode is a trading name of Polymath Insight Limited.
Polymath Insight Limited is a company registered in England with registration number 07050415.
The registered office address is 28 - 31 The Stables, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Beds, MK45 4HR.