Intium Energy wins Innovator of the Year

A sensor that predicts mechanical failure, a safety device to stop falls from high levels, and a tablet that mimics insulin for diabetics were among the top winners at the 2011 Mitsubishi Western Australian Innovator of the Year Awards.

Other award winning innovations included an underwater simulator to test subsea pipelines and a system that automatically detects unusual events in CCTV recordings.

Science and Innovation Minister John Day said the five winning innovations represented the strength and diversity of the state's economy.

The prestigious Innovator of the Year Award was presented to West Perth-based Intium Energy, for its conveyer roller monitoring sensor.

Intium will receive a prize package of up to $100,000 to continue to commercialise its mechanical failure-predicting technology.

In the start-up category, Curtin University took home the prize for its insulin-like drug for diabetics.

Curtin will receive a prize package worth up to $50,000.

In the growth category, Meridian Safety was recognised for its T-Line safety system, which allows users to move horizontally and vertically around overhead obstructions.

Meridian Safety also won a prize package worth up to $50,000.

The Woodside Oil and Gas Encouragement Award went to Woodside Petroleum for its O-tube pipeline stability simulator.

UWA will receive a cash prize of $10,000.

And finally, Bentley-based iCentana was awarded for its Intelligent Video Surveillance Software, in the broadband application innovation category, sponsored by iiNet.

iCentana's system automatically monitors video data, highlighting rare and unusual events.

The company also will receive a cash prize of 10,000.

“Winners don't only receive a financial boost, they also have access to professional services and mentoring – invaluable skills to have in business,” Mr Day said in a statement.

“Each and every big idea developed in WA has the potential to provide real and long-term benefits to our economy and community.

“Innovator of the year is just one of the ways the state government is working to ensure this happens.”