Concours Lépine Recognizes Patented Innovation for Seabed Clean-Up

The Concours Lépine is an invention competition held annually since 1901. Originally established to support small French manufacturers and inventors facing increasing foreign competition, it has evolved into a landmark event for innovation in France. Today, it takes place as part of the Paris Trade Fair (Foire de Paris).

To participate, inventions must be presented in the form of a prototype or model suitable for exhibition during the Fair. In addition, each invention must be protected by an intellectual property (IP) right, such as a patent.

On the occasion of the competition’s 125th edition, which featured 250 inventions, the French Intellectual Property Office (INPI), a long-standing partner of the event, awarded its prize to Alan d’Alfonso Peral for an autonomous underwater device designed for seabed clean-up.

This technology, protected by several patents, is based on a low-pressure pneumatic system that collects waste while preserving sensitive aquatic ecosystems.

A compelling demonstration that innovation, intellectual property, and environmental protection can all move in the same direction.