January 10, 2008

Until recently, “dirty” or overcomplicated CAD data was the single largest obstacle to the routine use of CFD or other numerical simulations early in the design process.

An unmanned seaplane with a 7-ft wingspan developed at the University of Michigan was inspired by flying fish.

Manufacturer of 3D printing machines Stratasys Inc. in Eden Prairie, Minn., says it uses rapid manufacturing to build 32 components for its new fuseddeposition- modeling production machine — the FDM 900mc.

Most engineers involved in collaborative projects still have problems exchanging CAD files.

A new air-powered tool from Fabco-Air Inc., Gainesville, Fla., (fabcoair.com) operates on 85 to 95 psi, but a forcemultiplying cylinder lets it deliver over 4,000 lb. of thrust to its cam-operated jaws.

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), comprised of over 200 of the nation’s top manufacturing executives, is serious about education.

Researchers at Aqueous Recovery Resources (ARR), Bedford Hill, N.Y., use fluid-pressure differential to separate oil and dirt from industrial baths. The method improves quality and extends bath life.

Gillett Evernham Motorsports, in Statesville, N.C., credits 3D CAD and CFD for giving its team the hundredths of a second advantage often needed to win a race. CFD Manager Chris Woodward says CFD is fairly new to the firm and to NASCAR as a whole.

Updated Acriche ac-powered LEDs from Seoul Semiconductor Inc. in South Korea, emit 200 lumens at 3.3 W, 50% more than the company’s previous version.

Searching for speed traps worldwide

Working people need working vehicles

Wireless sensors and other equipment might eliminate wiring going through dusty, oily factories or wet and cold outdoor spaces, but the transmitters must still withstand the abuse.

The treads on your car’s tires may be getting thinner, and not because you’re racking up the miles.

A Netting TrashTrap system from Fresh Creek Technologies Inc., Cedar Grove, N.J., captures floating trash and debris before they disrupt sewer systems or pollute waterways.

Many of the world’s biggest manufacturers are adopting sustainable manufacturing on a company-wide basis.

RPC beauté in France pulled out all the stops when it designed packaging for Color Fever Gloss ? a lip gloss from Lancôme.