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May 31, 2005
Kent Ullberg's Sculpture "The Guardian" Complete, Bound for New Houston Federal Reserve Facility in Early June; Piece to be Shipped June 3-5, Installed June 7
Sculptor Kent Ullberg, who works out of studios in Loveland, Colorado and Corpus Christi, Texas, has completed "The Guardian," a massive sculpture of an eagle commissioned by the Federal Reserve Bank to grace the main entrance of its new Michael Graves-designed building at 1801 Allen Parkway in Houston. The sculpture will be shipped by Berthoud's Mayo Industries (www.mayoweld.com), leaving Ullberg's Colorado studio early on Friday, June 3rd and scheduled to arrive in Houston on Sunday, June 5. Ullberg and his crew will install the piece Tuesday, June 7, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Loveland, CO / Houston, TX (PRWEB) May 31, 2005 -- Sculptor Kent Ullberg, who works out of studios in Loveland, Colorado and Corpus Christi, Texas, has completed "The Guardian," a massive sculpture of an eagle commissioned by the Federal Reserve Bank to grace the main entrance of its new Michael Graves-designed building at 1801 Allen Parkway in Houston.
The sculpture will be shipped by Berthoud's Mayo Industries (www.mayoweld.com), leaving Ullberg's Colorado studio early on Friday, June 3rd and scheduled to arrive in Houston on Sunday, June 5. Ullberg and his crew will install the piece Tuesday, June 7, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
"The Guardian" depicts an eagle with its wings spread wide, perched on a pyramid base, a blending of the images on the back of the U.S. one dollar bill. The piece, 12 feet tall and 20 feet wide and weighing in excess of two tons, will be installed atop an 18-foot column at the main entrance to the building. The piece was cast at Art Castings of Colorado in Loveland, Colorado (www.artcastings.com). The Federal Reserve commissioned Ullberg to create the sculpture after holding a competition that was judged by architect Michael Graves and Federal Reserve management.
The new building, a branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, was designed by Graves in cooperation with Houston-based architectural firm Pierce Goodwin Alexander and Linville (PGAL, www.pgal.com). Graves was selected after a nationwide search for an architect whose work would reflect the site’s historic location within the Fourth Ward and near the Buffalo Bayou, as well as the broader regional architecture. Linbeck Construction Co. (www.linbeck.com) of Houston supervised construction.
This branch of the Dallas Fed, the site of the former Jefferson Davis Hospital, replaces the agency's current facility on San Jacinto Street. Fed representatives note that Graves was selected for his talent for focusing on historical context within the urban environment, and he has designed a building that will be a monumental yet approachable focal point for all of Houston. The building helps create a gateway to Houston's downtown, and is designed to capture the multicultural, international and industrial traditions of a contemporary city while staying loyal to the classical foundations of the Federal Reserve System. The Dallas Fed serves the Eleventh Federal Reserve District, which encompasses Texas, northern Louisiana and southern New Mexico, and also has branches in San Antonio and El Paso.
Houston art lovers will have the chance to enjoy more of Ullberg's work this summer and fall, when a retrospective exhibit featuring 48 pieces from throughout his career will be on display at the Houston Museum of Natural Science from August 15th until October 30th.
About Kent Ullberg
A native of Sweden, Kent Ullberg is recognized as one of the world’s foremost wildlife sculptors. While he has done hundreds of works on a small scale, he is perhaps best known for the monumental works he has executed for museums and municipalities from Omaha, Nebraska to Cape Town, South Africa. His Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Omaha, Nebraska installations are the largest wildlife bronze compositions ever done, spanning several city blocks. Regardless of scale, he imbues all of his subjects with unparalleled vitality.
Ullberg is a member of a number of important art organizations that have honored him with prestigious awards. These include, in New York City, Allied Artists of America, National Academy of Design, National Arts Club, National Sculpture Society and the Society of Animal Artists. The National Academy of Design elected Ullberg a full “Academician,” one of the highest recognitions a visual artist can receive. His memberships and awards outside New York include the American Society of Marine Artists, Ambler, Pennsylvania; and the National Academy of Western Art, Oklahoma City, which awarded him the Prix de West Award in 1998, the foremost award in western art. He is a major supporter of many wildlife conservation efforts.
Ullberg’s work can be found in major museums and corporate headquarters around the globe, including the National Museum of Natural History in Stockholm, Sweden; the National Gallery in Botswana, Africa; National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.; Exhibition Hall, Beijing, China; the Guildhall in London, and many more. His pieces can also be found in the private collections of world leaders and celebrities, including H.R.H. Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands, Jack Nicholson and Robert Wagner. He maintains studios in Loveland, Colorado and Corpus Christi, Texas. For more information, call (970) 667-7809 or (361) 851-1600, or email e-mail protected from spam bots.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:10 AM | Comments (0)
Caribbean Cold Storage Selects ROC Enterprise To Manage Its Entire 3PL Operations And Gain Inventory Accuracy Levels Of 99.99%
Toronto, Canada: Radcliffe Inc., a leading warehouse management software company, announced today that Caribbean Cold Storage (CCS) has gone live on ROC Enterprise.
(PRWEB) May 31, 2005 -- To ensure its continued leadership in an ever-changing and competitive third party logistics industry, CCS needed a more flexible system to manage customer relationships and core business operations. CCS’s legacy WMS was paper based and inaccurate, making it difficult for the company to effectively track warehouse activity. CCS also required a new WMS that would improve space utilization and eliminate large physical inventories.
After investigating several WMS solutions, CCS selected Radcliffe’s award-winning software, ROC Enterprise. “We chose Radcliffe because of its clear commitment to be our partner in achieving our business objectives and the continued significant investment in their market-leading products,” said Paul Robbins, President “We intend to go beyond the adequate service provided today in our industry to provide the best service of any 3PL and we believe ROC Enterprise can help us achieve that objective.”
By leveraging the radio frequency (RF) function and the integration capabilities of the ROC Enterprise platform, CCS was able to streamline and automate the manner in which it tracks, stores and services clients across its operations. CCS was also able to employ the powerful analytics capabilities in the system to examine employee productivity and prevent missed revenue opportunities. In addition, the integrated platform is expected to reduce time and cost related to administration and maintenance.
CCS will leverage the capabilities in ROC Enterprise to support more cross- and up-sell opportunities across its global operations and improve the depth and breadth of warehouse knowledge. Web-based self-service forms for client services will be utilized in order to increase resolution rate time and deliver on the company’s goal of creating a more satisfying customer experience.
“To remain competitive, 3PL companies need to effectively adapt to changing market conditions and rising customer expectations,” said Fred Radcliffe, president and CEO, Radcliffe Inc. “Our solutions offer 3PL providers a flexible WMS infrastructure to bring innovation to all customer-based operations, resulting in more satisfied customers and a better bottom line.”
Today Caribbean Cold Storage and Caribbean Shipping Services operate from their main offices in Jacksonville, FL and satellite offices in San Juan, PR, Charlotte, NC and Howell, NJ. The company has twice been named to INC Magazine’s list of 100 Fastest Growing Inner City Companies. Since 1999 they have also been included in the First Coast 50, a listing of the top fifty privately owned companies in Northeast Florida.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:09 AM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2005
Dallas Incubator Sees a Trend or Two
Incucomm says an exit from its facility is part of the new realties in startups. Xterprise, a provider of RFID solutions and systems, is moving out of Incucomm, a business incubator in June.
Dallas, TX (PRWEB) May 29, 2005 -- “Xterprise was founded by Dean Frew in 2002, after 9/11 during the tech bubble bursting. It was a venture capital ice age,” said Steve Roemerman, Incucomm’s CEO. “No institutional money was seeding new companies when Dean started, so it’s impressive to see the firm now. When Dean moved in, Xterprise did not have a name, and he was the only person involved. Now they have dozens of people, have raised two rounds of financing from an excellent VC (Logispring), and have installed their solutions in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. They have an impressive line with hardware, software, and services. They have important patents pending and other interesting intellectual property. Xterprise shows that high quality companies can be started from scratch, in tough times.”
Roemerman said Xterprise reflected trends Incucomm has observed:
- Early stage firms must bootstrap, find angel funding or both until they meet the more conservative standards of current institutional investors
- This reality favors companies with pragmatic offerings, and founders with strong domain knowledge
- Venture economics in the US are cyclical in terms of investment activity, and in terms of the phases of firms targeted for investments
- The small number of startups with vintage years of 2001 - 04 is creating a supply and demand imbalance, pushing valuations up
“We are excited for Xterprise, and proud to be associated with them,” said Matt Bowers, Incucomm’s Chief Development Officer. Bowers noted Xterprise has sold into some of the largest companies in the world, in many cases winning in head to head competition with larger, more established firms. “People do business with people,” Bowers noted, “Dean Frew’s knowledge of the logistics space, and his strong personal reputation made an incredible difference while Xterprise was building its brand. Now they are partnered with other RFID leaders, like Alien, Apriso, Red Prairie, Symbol, and Zebra. They have clients in a number of verticals, including consumer package goods, technology, and medical. It is striking to see what they have accomplished.”
Xterprise will move to new facilities in Carrollton and will boast one of the most comprehensive RFID application and demonstration facilities in the world.
About Incucomm: Incucomm and Incucomm Consulting are based on a seasoned team of strategy, business, and technology professionals. Founded in March 2000, the company is based in Dallas Texas, and is privately held.
Incucomm operates an incubator for technology firms, and holds an equity position in a number of young firms. Incucomm Consulting provides services to more mature companies, ranging from large publicly traded corporations, to venture backed firms, and venture investors. Incucomm is on the web at www.incucomm.com Incucomm is a registered trademark of Incucomm, Inc
About Xterprise: Xterprise Inc. makes next-generation RFID supply chain solutions a reality today. The firm offers a portfolio of EPC/RFID solutions tailored to address the needs of specific vertical markets. Xterprise focuses on real-world solutions including RFID engineering studies, RFID and WMS implementations, and complete RFID compliance deployments. These include the XARM hardware line of products, which helps retail suppliers efficiently meet the demands of their retail customers for RFID capability. Xterprise also markets an RFID-enabled supply chain visibility solution, TRAX™, which provides item visibility for high tech, pharmaceutical and cold chain customers. Xterprise has currently deployed TRAX™ in Asia, and Europe. For more information, visit www.xterprise.com or call 972-690-9460, ext. 300.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:15 AM | Comments (0)
Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation Honors Ozburn-Hessey Logistics' Lanter Division for Outstanding Service - Apparel Deliveries 99.15% on Time all Year
Lanter Distributing, a division of Ozburn-Hessey Logistics (www.ohlogistics.com), has been honored by Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, one of the world's largest apparel companies, for Outstanding Service including a 99.15% on-time delivery rate for 2004.
Nashville, TN (PRWEB) May 29, 2005 -- Lanter Distributing, a division of Ozburn-Hessey Logistics (www.ohlogistics.com), has been honored by Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, one of the world's largest apparel companies, for Outstanding Service including a 99.15% on-time delivery rate for 2004. Lanter Distributing provides pool distribution services for PVH from Madison, IL and Nashville, TN.
"OH Logistics is a true partner in service," said Kevin Maluchnik, Group Transportation Manager for Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation. "PVH's and OH Logistics' common goal is serving our retail stores. Lanter Distributing exhibits great flexibility to adapt to the special and changing needs of our company and our stores. That is what makes them such a valuable component of our supply chain".
"We are honored by this award," said Bob Brendel, Business Development Manager for OH Logistics. "We have worked with PVH for five years in Madison, IL and for two years in Nashville. We are proud of our 99.15% on-time performance for 2004. We are already working with PVH to improve that for 2005. Phillips-Van Heusen is dedicated to providing superior service to their retail stores and we look forward to continuing to help them increase their customer satisfaction levels."
About OH Logistics (www.ohlogistics.com)
Based in Nashville, Ozburn-Hessey Logistics (OH Logistics) serves Fortune 1500 companies with strategically-placed, multi-client warehouse campuses as well as numerous dedicated facilities. The company serves the food service consolidation, industrial, electronic & high tech, pharmaceutical & medical, health and beauty, and consumer products industries. OH Logistics is the nation's largest privately held 3PL. It operates over 19 million square feet of warehouse space nationwide, offers complete transportation management of parcel, LTL and TL shipments, and employs over 2,700.
Lanter Distributing, a division of OH Logistics, provides transportation services in conjunction with NDS. ProVenture Commercial Real Estate, a subsidiary of OH Logistics, offers development, brokerage and building management services. Material Handling Resources, a division of OH Logistics, provides lease and purchase programs for material handling equipment as well as comprehensive maintenance programs. Personnel Services, Inc., a subsidiary of OH Logistics, oversees a seasonal workforce and provides expertise in national agency labor development.
OH Logistics can be reached at (877) 401-6400 or on the web at www.ohlogistics.com.
About Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation
Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation is one of the world's largest apparel companies. It owns and markets the Calvin Klein brand worldwide. It is the world's largest shirt company and markets a variety of goods under its own brands; Van Heusen, Calvin Klein, IZOD, Arrow, Bass and G.H. Bass & Co.; and its licensed brands; Geoffrey Beene, Kenneth Cole New York, Reaction Kenneth Cole, BCBG Max Azria, BCBG Attitude, MICHAEL Michael Kors, Sean John, Chaps, and Donald J. Trump Signature.
News: OH Logistics
Media Contact: Bill Fahrenwald
Telephone: 708-371-0110 Ext. 1-#
Fax: 708-371-1979
Email: e-mail protected from spam bots
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:13 AM | Comments (0)
May 27, 2005
Horizon National Contract Services Deploys DefinedLogic Mobile Solution for more Efficient Quality Control
DefinedLogic, LLC, a company with a long track record of developing and deploying mission-critical solutions for enterprise customers, announces that Horizon National Contract Services, the country’s premier contract management and self-perform cleaning services company, has selected DefinedLogic’s Mobile Solutions Methodology to facilitate the design and development of a custom mobile application to provide communication capabilities of Service Quality and Management Quality ratings in a more timely manner from the field.
West Long Branch, NJ (PRWEB) May 27, 2005 -- DefinedLogic, LLC, a company with a long track record of developing and deploying mission-critical solutions for enterprise customers, announces that Horizon National Contract Services, the country’s premier contract management and self-perform cleaning services company, has selected DefinedLogic’s Mobile Solutions Methodology to facilitate the design and development of a custom mobile application to provide communication capabilities of Service Quality and Management Quality ratings in a more timely manner from the field. After going from concept to test within six weeks, Horizon National is complete with its initial pilot stage and has now rolled out the application nationwide.
Focusing on the retail, financial and healthcare industries, Horizon National’s roster of clients include such leading retailers as the TJX Companies, Office Max, Home Depot, Toys R Us, Target, and Rite Aid. Since the company manages multi-state, multi-site facilities through a network of area managers and numerous on-site contract cleaning professionals located throughout the country, it is paramount to the success of the organization to maintain a steady flow of communication in a timely manner to and from the field.
Formed as a result of an acquisition in January 2003, Horizon National immediately began a review of its operations and found that the paper-based reporting process from the field was taking up to 45 days to complete. This meant that there could be significant lag time between an area manager’s routine monthly site visit and when their findings finally reached corporate headquarters in Red Bank, NJ. As a result, this directly affected Horizon’s ability to provide timely and accurate status updates to their customer’s national headquarters on the cleanliness and overall presentation and appeal of their locations nationwide.
“When we made the acquisition in January, it was apparent to us that we had two parallel management models that weren’t integrated – our area managers in the field who were gathering data on individual customer locations and our corporate account managers in the home office who were required to report to customer executives with nationwide operational responsibilities,” said Kristen Bunnell, Executive Director, Horizon National Contract Services. “We began to explore ways to develop an internal management tool that would help us run the business in a more streamlined and efficient manner, which ultimately led us to mobility.”
During this time, DefinedLogic approached longtime partner and customer Broadbeam, a leader in delivering proven software to support and facilitate the rapid development and deployment of enterprise mobility solutions. Broadbeam was selected to provide the platform and middleware on which the solution would be built. DefinedLogic and the Broadbeam Corporation worked with Horizon National to assess their business processes from an information technology (IT) perspective and agreed that mobility would offer a means for the company to improve communication from the field. Since then, DefinedLogic has worked with Horizon National to develop a customized mobile application that is capable of transmitting information on a daily basis.
“We were looking at a relatively short turn around time between the initial concept and the timeframe for the test pilot with about six weeks, as well as a budget of $20,000 -- $25,000 to get the solution up and running,” stated Alex Shanley, Principal Analyst, DefinedLogic. “The overall experience of using the application needed to be powerful and user-friendly while still offering a low cost. We were able to bring the project from concept through deployment, fulfilling these goals, by following our proven methodology in developing enterprise-level mobility strategies and the technology to support them.”
The Bottom Line
Once a month, Horizon National’s area managers conduct quality control visits to inspect the various locations within their region and meet with each site’s local management team. The Horizon National area manager and the customer’s local management team are responsible for assigning the site a Service Quality Rating and a Management Quality Rating, which are based on a scale of one to five. These ratings serve to measure the performance of Horizon National’s locally contracted cleaning professionals. This information is then communicated back to headquarters along with an action plan and rationale for following up with the site’s manager.
With the wireless solution fully deployed, Horizon National’s area managers are able to document and transmit their findings directly from the device, which is cradled at the end of the day. This automated system alleviates the need to fax or mail the findings, which would then have to be manually entered into the system in order to compile a report for all the sites nationwide. Also, the end of day docking of the device in the cradle will compensate for any coverage issues that may exist throughout the country, which could preclude the report from being submitted wirelessly. Further, when the area manager returns to the site, he/she will be able to access the information from the previous visit on their handheld device.
“Essentially, the mobile solution will enable our internal management structure to be set up around the information that’s being transmitted from the field, which will consolidate our internal functions,” commented Bunnell. “For example, we currently perform about 6,000 quality control phone calls a month to make sure that all locations are satisfied with our service. When we have access to the findings from on-site visits in a timelier manner, we expect that about half of these will be eliminated. “
According to Bunnell, Horizon National expects to reach a return on their initial $100,000 investment within a year, which will occur through the consolidation of their internal management structure, resulting in greater efficiencies of time and increased productivity by freeing up staff members to focus on other issues.
About DefinedLogic’s Mobile Solutions Methodology
DefinedLogic’s mobile solutions methodology is a proven approach to successfully developing and deploying enterprise-level mobile applications. Focused on one goal, predictable results, the company’s methodology is grounded by its stressed importance of identifying key business drivers of workforce mobility prior to embarking on any technology decisions. The Mobile Solutions Methodology provides the structure necessary to ensure a successful and predictable project delivery, but remains flexible for use in all types of mobile application development including sales force automation, field service automation, work force management and route sales pick-up and delivery, among others.
About DefinedLogic
DefinedLogic, LLC (www.definedlogic.com) is the leader in developing and delivering proven technology solutions to enterprises that need their employees, customers and partners to be integrated into business processes. DefinedLogic offers highly experienced business analysts, project managers, designers, and developers to assist enterprises with completing projects on time, on budget and in line with their objectives. DefinedLogic prides itself in remaining technologically agnostic to provide its clients with the best unbiased advice and service available.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 11:59 PM | Comments (0)
May 26, 2005
The Interstate Traveler: a High Speed Hydrogen-Solar Transportation System that Produces Enough Abundant, Clean Low-cost Energy to Power the World
American Computer Scientists Association announces it is mentoring / engaging in assistance to perform a validation, demonstration study to the Interstate Traveler Project, a project originated by Justin Sutton to build a high speed hydrogen solar rail transportation system with some remarkable side benefits.
(PRWEB) May 26, 2005 -- Imagine traveling from NY to Los Angeles by car in 10.5 hours, while your Rail system is producing enough hydrogen to power 70% or more of the Nation’s entire energy demand at no extra charge? Sounds impossible? Don’t bet on it. If a young group of dedicated pioneers have their way, within a year ground could be broke to build a new kind of accelerated highway based on rail transportation of autos, freight and people.
The new highway, called the “Trailblazer” is one that can carry cars between major metropolitan areas reportedly with absolutely no fuel cost. The startup company, Interstate Traveler Company, (http://www.interstatetraveler.us) has been “adopted” by the American Computer Science Association as “the wave of the future, now!” According to the ACSA, who has studied the solutions offered by the Interstate Traveler Project – a truly innovative business model has broken down the barriers to a ready supply of cheap, hydrogen energy for the future clean energy economy of America.
Major breakthroughs in engineering have made it now possible to build a high speed transportation system that has virtually no fuel costs, can move automobiles, people and freight interstate at speeds up to 250 miles per hour or more, and yet it produces 300% excess hydrogen for every 100% of its own power needs. The unique technology of the Interstate Traveler uses twin-rail light duty Mag-Lev propulsion, and includes a large array of “Hydrogen from Solar” Conduits (HSCs) that produce hydrogen the entire length of the rail system during sunlight hours.
Due to the extraordinary length of this rail system, the HydroSol Conduit could produce an excess of hydrogen continuously during daylight hours spanning the continent, says the Interstate Traveler Company. This breakthrough reportedly leverages a phenomenon nationwide that is called “the eight hour guaranteed sunny day”.
The Interstate Traveler’s transit system is said to use new Automobile Carriers and small passenger/freight carrying MAGLEV cars which would travel between cities at breathtaking speed. Interest in the new system has ranged far and wide, including some pretty powerful state government bodies such as the State of Oklahoma and the State of Michigan, reportedly. And it has interested many in the big three Automobile manufacturers, who see it as a way to reduce the operating cost of automobiles drastically, allowing them to comply with emissions standards at the same time as reducing the cost to manufacture vehicles, and increasing demand, since fuel would be so inexpensive and clean.
Recent advances have made it possible to pump Hydrogen into an automotive tank, while cooling it, preventing safety issues and insuring that such as the Interstate Traveler can provide Hydrogen directly to commuters’ and shoppers’ autos.
The heads of the ACSA (http://www.acsa.net) have labored long hours over their slide rules to verify, on paper, the concept of the Interstate Traveler ( http://www.interstatetraveler.us ).
“We have discussed moving into the final validation stages with the Interstate Traveler Company and have concluded that not only is this a feasible energy and transportation development project, but it is something that would appeal generically to the Auto, Bus, and Air travel Industry- a new venture that could also pay for the cost of fueling their main products: cars, jets and buses/trucks. While initially it may seem costly, from our standpoint, it rapidly pays for itself. So quickly, in fact, that the pain of development is minimized and negligible."
"We hope to assemble a team to monitor the permit issuance and building of several demonstration legs of the Traveler, so that a live run test of the new slotted electrical engines, its intermediate duty MagLev system, and the hydrogen solar generating conduit (and other facilities) can quickly demonstrate the economic soundness of the Interstate Traveler concept. And, obviously, we’re pretty excited about the idea of autos, people and light freight being able to ride this new system at 250 mile per hour between major metro areas,” stated ACSA scientific chairperson, Jack A. Shulman, adding:
“Frankly, I’m a flight enthusiast and aviation flight control system designer. You couldn’t keep me out of a Jet if you tried. Nonetheless, I doubt Justin Sutton is going to be able to keep me out of the Traveler, either. It compresses that weekend trip 200 miles to Atlantic City for me down to a 20 minute jaunt, and I’d be able to rail to DC or Boston at five times the normal speed, while catching up on a little homework. The whole project is, to me, in a word: Fascinating! They’re really on to something, here!”
An Amazing Solution
Himself a computer scientist and physicist, Dr. Shulman became interested in the automation control of Justin Sutton’s Interstate Traveler "at first sight".
"It represents a unique scheduling, piloting, energy management and maintenance opportunity for any automation system", he indicated, in a recent interview, adding:
“I was always attracted to Hydrogen from Solar (HydroSol) Energy, because: once commercially rendered feasible, it is the cleanest, soundest way to obtain energy. One is literally 'mining Sunlight for electrons' and then, converting ordinary water into Hydrogen and Oxygen with it. Everyone has seen that experiment performed in High School Physics class, yet this is the first time we’ve had a broad spectrum functional model that will allow engineering to leverage the phenomenon into an application that will dramatically benefit all of humanity."
"ACSA is still organizing a substantive validation exercise; however we mainly feel obligated to safeguard the means for Interstate Traveler Company to build its high speed hydrogen-solar rail transportation system and energy product facility without any actual damage to the environment. That, right now, seems very feasible: it should cause no damage at all, and we can control the environmental impact of building it, with the help of appropriate environmental engineering and with the assistance of such as the EPA and DoT. Fortunately, its’ design appears to be literally perfect."
"As it was explained to me: The Interstate Traveler Company intends to build their rail system on and adjacent to the already cleared property of the United State’s massive Interstate Highway system. This insures that egress development can retain the prior investment made by the Federal Government in having built todays Interstate Highways. Also, quite fortunately, the business model being used by Interstate Traveler Company enhances the way we travel by our traditional automobiles, SUVs, Busses and Trucks: allowing the Interstate Traveler to carry the vast load of autos and passengers between state metropolitan areas, letting hydrogen powered Automobiles, Vans and SUVs do the rest locally when they off-load. the balance of its excess fuel is then sold to the power companies, industry, and hydrogen distribution Station systems formerly used to sell Gas and Diesel."
"About the only thing it doesn't need from today's automotive transportation infrastructure are barrels of oil, allowing them to be redireted to make profitable lubricants, solvents, chemical derivatives, plastics, and other, more profitable such uses for petroleum, prolonging oil's unique value and pushing off the date that they would eventually run dry at the oil wells, which has recently been projected to be 2045 by some. While I personally do not believe oil wells will run out by then, there are many profitable uses for it when it is no longer needed as the staple for automotive propulsion, and can be replaced with the excess hydrogen produced by Interstate Traveler Systems all over the world. The presumption that the only use for crude oil is to make gasoline is a misconception. By not having to burn it, oil ceases being a combustion air polutant, which should make its use in plastics and so on mor palatable to the environmentally concerned."
"This seems like the best of both worlds to me, assuming the Interstate Traveler Project can be completed successfully. Not only does it combine solar and hydrogen energy forces into a clean and complimentary "symbiosis"-like solution, it also combines the use of light and medium duty high speed mass transit vehicles with the flexibility of ordinary automotive travel. In my view, if it works, it will yield a seemingly perfect mixture of environmental safety, raw performance, cheap sustainable energy, and will relieve America of it's dependence upon foreign oil for it's future energy sources. We have the utmost hopes that the entire Interstate Traveler Project, all 54,000 miles of its track, can all be made to work. Sometimes there are other issues than technology and adaptability that get in the way of projects of this size, scope and importance.”
The results of building the entire system, states the Interstate Traveler Company: enough plentiful excess hydrogen fuel to power local traveling automobiles, trucks and buses, by building this new transit system adjacent to the existing United States Interstate Highway System (known as the Eisenhower Memorial Interstate Highway) at the low cost of about $10 million per mile, reportedly. Its conceiver, Justin Eric Sutton, has been described by the ACSA as: “an extraordinary scientist and an outstanding and brilliant entrepreneur, who has hit upon an amazing multi-disciplinary solution to problems that face us in America today, namely: energy and how to obtain it cleanly and inexpensively”.
With a build time to market of little more than 5 years, according to the company, the entire Interstate Traveler Project should pay for each major segment (breaks even) from its own revenue, within 3 years of each segments’ completion. Building it is comparatively easy, aside from the crossing of mountain passes, which has already been done by the Interstate Highway System: that provides a perfect egress for the Traveler, according to Sutton. The Project reportedly intends to use an amazingly innovative, heavily automated rate of construction: about 15 miles of track built per day.
The company also has reportedly consulted with the big three automobile manufacturers and various aerospace companies. It appears that these major forces in each industry have expressed interest in supplying the Traveler’s “light to medium duty MAGLEV rail cars” and it's other components. According to the Interstate Traveler website, one of the most appealing aspects of the design is that it does not rely on older rail concepts that were driven by large scale, heavy rail engines and cars. The older style rail system design carries with it an enormous weight penalty not present in the Traveler, whose rail cars are much, much lighter and designed to travel at much higher speeds. As anyone in auto racing can tell you: creating a better weight to power ratio yeilds more speed with less fuel, and can express itself through various mathematical formula as “the right thing to do at the right time.”
How it Accomplishes What it Accomplishes
According to the Interstate Traveler Company, there are some pretty remarkable consequences of taking the design and business model direction that it has.
Each month, 400 miles of this new rapid transit highway could be built (the approximate distance between Boston and Washington) and pays for itself within 3 years of the opening of a major segment. Cross country, an entire 2500 mile length can be built in 1 year from NYC to Los Angeles, and pays for itself within 3 years. Three such projects, in only 1.5 years, could link a northern, southern and central route producing connections between 75% of the major metro areas in the United States.
At the end of three years, nearly three quarters (¾) of the hydrogen the entire track produces becomes freely salable to business, industry, and the general public for power consumption in homes, offices, industry and municipal utilities' usage. Only one quarter (¼) is ever used to power the transportation system itself, at maximum load. To compliment its own ability to be easily maintained and safe to operate, the entire Interstate Traveler system was designed to provide for only two or three basic types of "universal" medium duty rail vehicle platforms, each adaptable to a limitless range of "Travelers": one to carry one or more automobiles or other vehicles to a specific destination, the others to carry interstate commuters in small groups or to perform utility functions. The commuter version is also designed so that it can be equipped to carry freight and packages. Other types of "Travelers" are also on the drawing boards. Small "on and off” stations at various locations would allow individual Traveler Vehicles to pick up and drop off Autos “all over the place”, stated the Interstate Traveler Company, and would provide other services needed by the system. Surprisingly, it is all this "scaling to fit" in the Traveler's design that makes it all feasible!
For example, while not suggesting such should be abandoned, plans that require huge, centralized solar energy plants require enormous land areas to gather enough sunlight. The Traveler does not require such vast tracts; it gathers light along its entire length, 54,000 miles and delivers power where it is needed at a minimum of overhead. To store the power, it uses hydrolyzation to convert water to Hydrogen.
Furthermore, centralized solar energy plants also have a problem delivering the power they make to distant locations, requiring many large plants and long distance AC transmission (with considerable waste and loss) to get power to a usage area. The Traveler maintains a continuous conduit its entire length, along which it uses successive hydrolyzers to convert solar energy to hydrogen, with storage of the hydrogen along its entire length in safety storage tanks. Its a safety conscious design provides “hydrogen tanking up” Service Stations at every major “on and off” station, and low overhead hydrogen pressure driven transfers within the length of the conduit to keep every station at full capacity nearly all of the time.
Safety doesn’t end there; fire blockades and control systems, and tamper proofing security have already been carefully thought out and planned for. It is believed it would be virtually impossible to sabotage a system so large, as even in the case of terrorist attack, only a small portion of the Traveler would be effected, and security provisions provide for rapid response, and ease of effecting repair. Up to a 15 mile segment can be entirely replaced in a single day.
The Traveler's "Service Stations" are distributed at convenient locations where they can provide hydrogen to autos that use the Traveler, and can provide local hydrogen to automobiles, trucks and buses in each metropolitan area. Additional hydrogen would be off loaded at "master distributors" which would then provide it to electricity producing plants for the nation’s power grid. Also, hydrogen would be provided to delivery systems which own their own hydrogen pumping stations to serve the hundreds of millions of automobiles at use in America. And remaining hydrogen could be used for other purposes, such as by industrial plants and air and space travel.
Amazingly, once the entire 54,000 miles of Interstate Highway are eventually built out with accompanying Interstate Travelers, an enormous (as much as) 85,000 Mega Watts of energy might be achievable by the entire Traveler system, continuously during any 12 solar hour period. That power is actually stored by converting it to Hydrogen, hydrogen converters, producing clean burning hydrogen from ordinary water. That Hydrogen is then stored and used to power internal combustion engines and fuel cells on demand, wherever needed, both within the Traveler’s system, and sold outside to the nation’s vast energy consumptive industries. By the way: that’s 1 Terawatts Hour per 12 hour sunlight-day, an enormous amount of energy!
Using the conversion formula, multiply 3414 times each kilowatt hour to calculate the common form of energy called BTUs. Believe it or not, the entire Traveler system could, if Interstate Traveler Company is successful, produce an amazing 3.4 Quadrillion BTUs every day of sunlight! That is considerably more than the combined demand for energy of the entire United States each day.
Due to the desire to work efficiently, the initial build plan for the Interstate Traveler appears to be targeted at producing only 1/3 that amount of power (1.1 Quadrillion BTU for every 10 sunlight hours). Accounting for the weather, that would produce about 300 such periods per year. That would calculate to as much as 330 Quadrillion BTUs of energy per year.
Assuming a very aggressive estimate of loss, assuming the system would lose about 40% due to various overheads and production costs, and 20% of the remaining amount for operating the Interstate Traveler, that would leave about 120 Quadrillion BTUs of energy (in hydrogen gas) left over each year for ordinary business, government, industrial and consumer usage.
To give one an idea of how beneficial this might be: According to statistics, in the USA we consume 98 Quadrillion BTUs of energy every year, according to the Secretary of the US Department of Energy. He has indicated in recent speeches that the Department of Energy expects the US to be consuming 120 “quads” per year in less than 20 years.
What this means, potentially, to America is this: the finished Interstate Traveler could at almost no cost become the source of all that energy, thereby eliminating America’s sole dependency upon petroleum sources both domestic and foreign, for energy, allowing petroleum to be used for other, more profitable purposes.
Because the Traveler is so large a system, securing it is reportedly relatively easy, by design, and because of its size, a natural redundancy insures that it would be extraordinarily difficult to bring its hydrogen production to a halt, and easy to repair it. Security includes camera systems, and high speed emergency response units that can reach any problem in seconds ot minutes from the nearest local station.
“The Secret Process”
The Intestate Traveler Company has also indicated that its “secret process” might be of keen interest to Environmentalists.
What they are referring to is the process the company is using that it states reverses the Hydrogen back into energy. The hydrogen powered internal combustion engines and hydrogen fuel cells are used to produce electrical energy and motion. According to Sutton's team, such energy converters return most of the water that was split into hydrogen and oxygen by the Interstate Traveler’s HydroSol Conduit, back into the environment as clean, distilled water: yielding a net gain in oxygen and a small amount of heat. It even carefully replaces the heat from the Sun that was used by the HydroSol Conduit’s solar panels to power the hydrogen production process.
It is a scientific fact, according to the company, that the methods Interstate Traveler Company has designed into it’s transportation system are among the cleanest, most efficient means of producing energy for our use. The Interstate Traveler appears to marginalize the need for other energy sources, since its designers can always expand the number of HydroSolar Energy Conduits built along the Interstate Traveler’s rail system, multiplying the available hydrogen being produced.
Infrastructures to bring in clean water (much of which can be retained by the system that powers the Interstate Traveler, and recovered from Automobiles when they “tank up” at ITC Hydrogen Stations) are being planned for, according to the company, as is the entire complex of manufacturers to build the Traveler, and to supply Hydrogen Powered Traveler Vehicles and consumer and other Automobiles by the Interstate Traveler Company and it industrial partners, at this time.
According to the Department of Energy, the United States spends over $500 Billion Dollars on energy annually (which equals ½ a cent per BTU of energy).
The entire cost of building the whole Interstate Traveler would net to about $650 Billion and would pay for itself in three years, reducing the cost of energy by $500 billion dollars per year, and likely bringing back the cost of fuel to the automobile driver down to 1/10th today’s cost or less. That would have the effect of returning fuel costs for autos back to their pre-1963 levels! The ACSA has commented: “If this is truly the result, then what we are talking about here is nothing less than a miracle.”
The Interstate Traveler Company’s figures seem to suggest that the overall impact of the Interstate Traveler will be to drive the value of petroleum fuels down to their pre-1963 prices and eventually will yield a viable alternative when the world’s petroleum fuel reserves run dry, which some have said may happen by the year 2040..
For more background information of the ACSA’s mentorship of the Interstate Traveler Company, visit ACSA’s story on the subject at http://www.acsa2000.net/hshrt/
(RSS FEED: http://www.acsa2000.net/feeds/hispeedhydrorail.xml).
Closing Note
ACSA indicated it would be assembling a validation / demonstration team with Interstate Traveler Company over the course of the following six months to a year, and that it hopes to break ground on a Boston, MA to Hartford, CT, to NYC, NY to Baltimore, MD to Washington, DC to Atlanta, GE to Miami, FLA Interstate Traveler (to be called the North-to-South East Coast Trailblazer) as a demonstrator. It would follow the path of the famed Route 1 and the interstate highways that were built in the 60’s to carry commuter loads along those routes.
It is hoped by the ACSA that, assuming all the technical and other issues are worked out properly during this development period, that sufficient funding and profit will emerge as a result, to empower building of three more major runs cross country through major metro areas from the east coast to the west coast, and two more North-to-South runs from Illinois southward and from the Pacific Northwest to the Baja, California thereafter. It is felt that upon completion of these major routes, that the balance of the system would be built out without much further ado over the course of three to five years.
As a mentor, ACSA provides understanding, guidance and assistance where possible to subject companies such as the Interstate Traveler Company with extremely innovative business idea. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all responsibility for the Interstate Traveler Project, its success or failure, and its accuracy in disclosure and feasibility rests solely with the Interstate Traveler Company and its staff. ACSA has publicly stated it is "extraordinarily pleased with the integrity and accuracy of reporting seen, to date, from Justin Sutton and the Interstate Traveler Company."
ACSA is at this time anticipating widespread support for the Traveler among its business affiliations and the membership. For more information, please contact the Association through the press contacts on this article.
Copyright © Written by Edison Park, freelance journalist: exclusive to the ACSA Inc. 2005. All rights reserved.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:39 AM | Comments (0)
ImageID Announces New Release of Visidot™ AIDC Product Suite, an “Alternative to RFID” for Manufacturers, Retailers
Visidot System Is Cost-Effective, Standards-Based Alternative to RFID for Multiple Asset Tracking - ImageID Ltd. today introduced a new version of its Visidot™ Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) system – an accurate and cost-effective solution for rapid multiple-asset AIDC and asset tracking.
Tel Aviv, Israel (PRWEB) May 26, 2005 -- ImageID Ltd. today introduced a new version of its Visidot™ Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) system – an accurate and cost-effective solution for rapid multiple-asset AIDC and asset tracking.
In the Visidot System (http://www.visidot.com), assets are uniquely labeled with standard 2D Data Matrix barcodes or with Visidot Colorcodes. As assets pass in front of the Visidot Reader, the reader captures hundreds of labels simultaneously and transmits the information to an image processing system, which decodes the data from each label. This asset data is exported to a data management system in XML or other standard format. Images can be stored in a separate Image Bank. An easy-to-use Site Management System controls the entire process.
The new Visidot release introduces the ability to detect and decode all variations of the Standard (ISO/IEC 16022) Data Matrix 2D barcode symbology with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Support for this standard symbology is added to the commercially proven Visidot Colorcode symbology.
“Today, the Visidot system delivers all the inherent benefits of traditional barcode technology, yet far surpasses it in terms of speed and efficiency of code capture – especially for tracking multiple assets,” said Roger Hecker, Product Marketing Manager for Visidot. “In addition, at accuracy levels of near-100% in actual installations, the Visidot solution is both more reliable and more cost-effective than RFID solutions.”
Industry-Proven
The Visidot system is field proven in key manufacturing and retail industry applications, including inbound and outbound shipment verification, management of reusable assets and identification of labels from long distances and in a large field of view.
- Tracking & Tracing Reusable Assets: IFCO Systems, a leading supplier of reusable plastic containers (RPC's) with more than 260 million rentals per year, was looking for a way to track each of its millions of RPC's throughout its network of over 40 RPC Service Centers and Storage depots all over Europe and North America. The Visidot solution is providing IFCO traceability of labeled crates, real-time views of inventory at depots, views of crate cycle times, accurate records of customer shipments/returns, and the foundation for improving customer request response time.
- Managing Bulky Assets in Manufacturing: Positioning bulky assets in automotive and aerospace manufacturing for traditional barcode scanning is often impractical or even impossible, as is RFID scanning involving metal assets or in metal-heavy environments.
The Ford Motor Company successfully installed a Visidot AIDC System at the Ford F150 plant in Dearborn to improve production speed and increase plant efficiency. The Ford plant, which produces Ford F150's, uses a fully automated Build Order system to produce its trucks. With multiple frame types to choose from, the company was looking for the most efficient way to expedite verification of the chassis type as it was being placed onto the production line. In December 2004, the company decided to install the Visidot system at the frame entrance to the plant to identify and verify the correct selection of the chassis type before it reached the conveyor belt inside. The newly installed Visidot reader captures a 2D Data Matrix label affixed to each chassis and confirms, in real-time with Ford’s production line controller, that the chassis is correct and can enter the assembly line. Since installation, the system accuracy has been perfect - 100%.
- Shipping Verification: In the retail supply chain field, the Visidot can help reduce costly charge-backs from retail customers by verifying all of the boxes in each outbound order and to use the stored image from each read as proof of shipment and condition.
The Visidot system components and features include:
- The Visidot Reader consists of a robust processing module and up to four image capture devices. The image capture devices scan assets in a large field of view, such as a full pallet load, and send digital images to the processor, running the Visidot Detect & Decode software. The Detect & Decode software, a set of sophisticated algorithms, detects all of the 2D Data Matrix barcodes or Visidot Colorcodes in the images and decodes them. The decoded data is transferred to the WMS, ERP, EDI or other system via standard data formats such as XML or RS-232. The entire reading process, from image capture to data export of hundreds of codes, takes only a few seconds. The highly accurate data provides real-time per-asset traceability, verification of outbound/inbound movements and updated inventory data.
- The Visidot Viewer, located at every reading point, provides a visual display of each read and its detections and enables immediate corrective action. For example, by automatically comparing the actual shipments with order data from WMS, OMS and EDI systems, the Viewer enables warehouse personnel to see, in real-time, which items are missing or not supposed to be on a pallet and add or remove items from the shipment.
- Visidot Image Bank Server stores the images and decoded data from all reads at a site and enables quick access for viewing past reads. Having a visual record of each read provides powerful evidence for proof of quantity and condition for every item in every shipment.
- Visidot Site Management System is a centralized management console that configures and monitors all Visidot Readers at a customer facility. With the ability to view recent reads from all readers, configure parameters and monitor performance, the Visidot Site Management System ensures fast corrective actions and optimal system performance.
“Through our commitment to global barcode standards such as the robust Data Matrix symbology, we are well poised for mainstream adoption of the Visidot solution throughout the supply chain,” said Rami Kopelman, VP Sales, Marketing and Business Development for Visidot. “Visidot's leadership in multiple-asset data capture is solidified – the ability to capture hundreds of standard codes in a single read, with proven near-100% accuracy, is unmatched by any barcode or RFID solution."
The latest version of ImageID’s Visidot™ Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) system is available immediately. For additional information, visit http://www.visidot.com.
About ImageID and Visidot
ImageID, the provider of the Visidot™ solution (http://www.visidot.com), develops and markets advanced multiple-asset Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) solutions. Based on imaging technology and sophisticated algorithms, the Visidot solution is capable of identifying and decoding hundreds of unique standard barcodes simultaneously in a single read, with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The Visidot solution is being used in retail supply chains, automotive manufacturing and reusable assets pool management operations to provide per-asset visibility and to increase operational efficiencies. ImageID is a multinational company with R&D facilities in Israel and direct sales and partner networks in the US and Europe.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:38 AM | Comments (0)
May 25, 2005
Columbus Consulting Set to Complete Two-Year Project for Big Lots
Company helps nation’s largest broadline closeout retailer better define merchandising processes and improve planning, inventory productivity and logistics
Columbus, OH (PRWEB) May 25, 2005 -- Following a multi-year engagement, Columbus Consulting, Inc., (CCI) a leading retail merchandise systems consulting firm, is in the final stages of completing several key deliverables and roles critical to the successful implementation of a merchandise planning and allocation solution for Columbus-based Big Lots, Inc., the nation’s largest broadline closeout retailer. The projects, which started in May 2003, were CCI’s first major efforts in the planning and allocation process space.
During the last two years, CCI has helped Big Lots define its merchandise planning and allocation process and select the appropriate applications to manage the process for the $4 billion retailer. As a key integration partner, CCI provided implementation assistance and leadership for the planning, allocation, data warehouse, and logistics solutions. The implementation of a Teradata data warehouse solution allowed Big Lots to streamline data management and focus on one source of data for its more than 1,500 store, 46-state operations. In addition, CCI helped support logistics operations and system implementation, as well as lead a program management activity over the multiple projects.
“This project was the first major effort for CCI in the planning and allocation process space, and helped catapult CCI into what is now a very healthy consulting practice,” said Rick Amari, president of Columbus Consulting, Inc. “Taking Big Lots from process concepts through selection, and now realizing the completion of the implementations, has demonstrated that we are a full-service provider with strong capabilities from concept through execution. Many retailers have taken note of our success, and as a result, we currently have active projects at 10 different clients addressing some aspect of planning and allocation. We continue to grow because of our understanding of the merchandising process and our ability to execute.”
As a result of the improvements in its planning and allocation process and the centralized data warehouse, Big Lots’ executives, managers and merchandisers have better access to information, which allows them to measure business operations across the entire company and react more effectively to market changes and trends. The company can also more effectively plan and make better decisions on deals and inventory investments, as well as improve inventory productivity at the store level. Improvements in the logistics process have resulted in more efficient product movement and visibility with a goal to drive down or effectively manage freight costs.
“We truly appreciate the efforts of Columbus Consulting in helping implement several key objectives of our supply chain optimization initiatives, including the more extensive involvement in our merchandise planning and allocation process,” added John Zavada, chief information officer for Big Lots. “As a result of a team effort, we are positioned with implemented solutions, which we expect to improve overall inventory management and increase incremental sales, reduce inventory cost, and improve markdown management. We are now able to react better to changing market conditions and manage information and inventory more effectively. The anticipated results will help us to better serve our customers and improve our company’s overall performance.”
About Big Lots, Inc.
Big Lots, Inc. (www.biglots.com) is the nation's largest broadline closeout retailer with annual revenues exceeding $4 billion. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots operates more than 1,500 retail stores serving 46 states. Five regional closeout distribution centers ranging in size from one million to three million square feet and two furniture distribution centers provide the company’s stores with brand-name products from more than 3,000 manufacturers. Big Lots offers merchandise on average at 20 to 40 percent below most discount retailers and up to 70 percent below conventional retailers. Founded in 1967, the company employs more than 45,000 associates across the U.S. By creating excitement with brand-name closeouts and bargains through a unique shopping experience, Big Lots meets the needs of customers by providing an assortment of merchandise including consumables, seasonal products, furniture and home, housewares, toys, and gifts. Big Lots, a Fortune 500 company, is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BLI.
About Columbus Consulting, Inc.
Founded by industry veteran Richard Amari in 2001, Columbus Consulting, Inc. comprises a team of highly experienced specialists in retail systems and processes. The company works with many of the world’s largest and best-known retailers, including American Eagle, Anne Taylor, Big Lots, Saks Fifth Avenue, CVS Pharmacy, and New York & Company. Columbus Consulting is called upon to provide a variety of services. These range from providing short-term, high-impact, executive-level advisory services on matters of system and process strategy, to overseeing large, multi-disciplinary, multi-million dollar projects. The company is based in Columbus, Ohio. For more information on Columbus Consulting, visit www.columbusconsultinginc.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:32 AM | Comments (0)
WWII Ship USS LST-325, Decorated D-Day Veteran, Salutes Alexandria, Va
The 63-year-old amphibious landing ship beats its schedule by a full day and anchors overnight at the Little Creek Amphibious Base, where thousands of LST sailors trained, before docking today in Old Town Alexandria, Va.
Alexandria, VA (PRWEB) May 25, 2005 -- USS LST-325, a World War Two amphibious vessel known as a “Landing Ship, Tank” pulls into Old Town Alexandria, Va. today following a 1,700-mile voyage from Mobile, Ala. With the help of fair winds, following seas and a flawlessly performing ship, the crew arrived in Chesapeake Bay a full day ahead of schedule. It anchored overnight near the Little Creek Amphibious base, where thousands of these ships’ sailors have been trained.
The ship will be open to the public for four days. Tours will be conducted each day, from Friday, May 27 through Monday, Memorial Day. Hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., and the admission is $10.00 for visitors over 18, $5.00 for children over five and a special family rate of $20.00.
The ship will be docked at Robinson Terminal North. The gate entrance to the dock is located at the cross streets of Oronoco Street and Union Street, Old Town Alexandria, Va.
On Friday, Mayor William Euille will present the ship with a special proclamation and Captain Robert Jornlin will give the Mayor the keys to the bow doors. (This inside joke refers to a prank played upon unknowing new sailors who were told to fetch them. There are no keys to the bow doors.) They will then participate in a Memorial Service, followed by a tour of the ship.
The crewmembers hail from 23 states, with most of them being U.S. Navy veterans who served on our country’s LST’s at various times since 1942. They are bringing this ship to Alexandria, Va. and then to several ports in Massachusetts, so that those of us who appreciate the service of our veterans can board and explore the only operational LST museum ship in existence. Churchill referred to them as the ships that won the war.
Not all of the crewmembers are veterans. A few of them are serving in memory of their fathers who sailed on LST’s. They have learned the skills of their fathers from willing tutors who enjoy sharing with the younger generation, in the hope that they will keep alive the memory of these ships and the crews who sailed them.
After the ship leaves Alexandria she will proceed down Chesapeake Bay and around Cape Charles, and then head north to the Cape Cod Canal and Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where tours will be conducted from June 4 to June 7. Following that visit the ship moves onward to the Boston area and then on to Gloucester, before returning to Mobile, Ala. in time for Independence Day celebrations.
Further information is available on the ship’s website at www.LSTMemorial.org. USS LST-325 is owned and operated by The USS LST Ship Memorial, Inc., a non-profit corporation.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:31 AM | Comments (0)
Columbus Consulting Renews Relationship with American Eagle Outfitters
Company to help leading lifestyle retailer better define business processes in order to improve sales and inventory productivity, and reduce markdowns
Columbus, OH (PRWEB) May 24, 2005 -- Columbus Consulting, Inc., a leading retail merchandise systems consulting firm, today announced that it has been retained by American Eagle Outfitter (AE) to help the fashionable retailer improve business processes relating to assortment planning, allocation and replenishment. AE, with total annual sales of more than $1.8 billion, currently operates 780 stores in 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and 70 stores in Canada.
“American Eagle has been one of the most successful retailers for the past couple of years, and is definitely one of the leaders of the industry,” said Rick Amari, president of Columbus Consulting, Inc. “Being selected by a company with AE’s standing is strong endorsement of our capabilities, and we look forward to working with the AE team to implement processes that will help the company continue its long-term growth strategy and vision of being a dominant, multi-brand lifestyle retailer.”
The first phase of the AE project began in the first quarter of 2005. In addition to helping identify areas for improvement in assortment planning, allocation and replenishment, Columbus Consulting will also assist AE in the development of an RFI (Request for Information) for a software vendor selection process. This marks the second engagement with American Eagle for Columbus Consulting. In 2001, AE hired Columbus to identify and implement business process improvements for its product development, sourcing and supply chain efforts.
“As a result of our past successful experience with Columbus Consulting, we are comfortable with bringing in Rick and his team to help us once again identify areas of improvements in our business processes,” said Jim Ford, vice-president of planning and allocation for American Eagle Outfitters. “In this very competitive retail marketplace, it is important to stay on top of everything relating to merchandising operations. Columbus offers us significant experience in retail operations and technology that we intend to capitalize on in order to streamline operations, improve merchandising processes and maintain our growth.”
About American Eagle
American Eagle Outfitters (NASDAQ: AEOS) is a leading lifestyle retailer that designs, markets, and sells its own brand of casual, fashion-right clothing for 15 to 25 year-olds, providing high-quality merchandise at affordable prices. AE's collection includes modern basics like jeans, surplus, and graphic Ts as well as a stylish assortment of cool accessories, outerwear, footwear and swimwear.
American Eagle Outfitters currently operates 779 AE stores in 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and 70 AE stores in Canada. AE also operates via its Web business, www.ae.com, which offers additional sizes and styles of favorite AE merchandise.
About Columbus Consulting, Inc.
Founded by industry veteran Richard Amari in 2001, Columbus Consulting, Inc. is comprised of a team of highly experienced specialists in retail systems and processes. The company works with many of the world’s largest and well-known retailers, general merchandisers and apparel stores, including American Eagle, Anne Taylor, Big Lots, CVS Pharmacy, and New York & Company . Columbus Consulting is called upon to provide a variety of services, from managing short-term, high-impact, executive-level advisory services on matters of strategic importance relating to retail systems and processes, to overseeing large, multi-disciplinary, multi-million dollar projects, lasting more than a year. The company is based in Columbus, Ohio. For more information on Columbus Consulting, visit www.columbusconsultinginc.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:29 AM | Comments (0)
May 24, 2005
Supermicro Selects ASBIS as Distributor in Europe, Middle East and Africa
ASBIS, a leading supplier of computer components to the EMEA emerging markets, has signed an Authorized Distributorship Contract with Supermicro, a California-based global leader in the design and manufacture of server solutions and motherboards. The new partnership will promote the distribution and sales of Supermicro products throughout 26 countries of ASBIS presence.
Limassol, Cyprus (PRWEB) May 24, 2005 -- ASBISc Enterprises Ltd., a leading supplier of computer components to the EMEA emerging markets, has signed an Authorized Distributorship Contract with Supermicro, a California-based global leader in the design and manufacture of server solutions and motherboards.
Under the terms of the recently signed agreement, ASBIS is now authorized to distribute all Supermicro products including servers, motherboards, chassis, and accessories. The agreement covers all territories of ASBIS’ current operation. As stated in the agreement, “The purpose of this document is to allow ASBIS and Supermicro to execute a mutually beneficial business relationship and devote ASBIS’s best efforts to market and sell Supermicro products”.
Laurent Journoud, ASBIS’ Executive VP Sales & Marketing, said, “Thanks to the new agreement with Supermicro we will be able to significantly extend our offer of state-of-the-art server products based on advanced Intel platforms and other future server and workstation technologies. We will also be able to respond faster and more efficiently to the changing requirements of our customers. The full range of Supermicro products, which we will soon start offering to our channel partners, stands head and shoulders above the competition by delivering industry-leading performance at extremely competitive prices. I am positive that our customers are going to appreciate it”.
The new partnership will promote the distribution and sales of Supermicro products throughout 26 countries of ASBIS presence with distribution centers located in the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, the United Arab Emirates and Finland. ASBIS will enable distributors and resellers to obtain Supermicro products locally through ASBIS offices.
“Supermicro specifically selected ASBIS as a key distribution partner due to their positive track record in computer component sales and their massive market presence across the emerging markets of Europe, Middle East and Africa.” said Wally Liaw, VP of International Sales at Supermicro. “This gives both parties a unique opportunity to make a significant contribution to satisfying the ever-growing demand for innovative and reliable server products. We are looking forward to successful co-operation with ASBIS over the coming years.”
About ASBIS
ASBIS is one of the largest suppliers of computer components in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) markets. The privately-owned company with headquarters in Cyprus and 38 offices in 26 countries plays a significant role in global supply chain with around 15,000 product items in its portfolio and the annual turnover reaching USD 755 million in 2004.
Today the company serves more than 12,500 active customers in 70 countries via 4 distribution centers and 33 local warehouses across its expanding regions. ASBIS combines extensive knowledge of the local markets it serves with a strong international team of over 600 employees bringing value to both its vendors and customers. ASBIS offers its clients not only a complete set of components and building blocks for manufacturing PCs, servers or notebooks, but also a unique pre- and post-sales service.
For more information about ASBIS please visit www.asbis.com.
About Supermicro Computer, Inc.
Established in 1993, Supermicro emphasizes superior product design engineering and uncompromising quality control to produce outstanding industry leading server systems that maximize the functionality and compatibility of its products. By combining a staunch commitment to quality with a market leadership tradition of being first to market, Supermicro’s high-end motherboards and server systems consistently deliver unsurpassed price/performance and reliability. Supermicro specializes in Server Building Block Solutions for Mission-Critical applications, including high-end graphics, modular computing and enterprise storage system development, to better serve today's rapidly changing global business needs. As the premier server solutions and motherboard manufacturer in Silicon Valley and the fastest growing high volume server manufacturer in the world today, Supermicro provides outstanding quality with 24x7 Worldwide Technical Support.
For additional information, please visit the company’s website at www.Supermicro.com or email e-mail protected from spam bots.
Media contact:
Victor Lukyanov
PR Manager
ASBISc Enterprises Ltd.
E-mail: e-mail protected from spam bots
Tel. +375 17 2147762 (ext.227)
www.asbis.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:19 AM | Comments (0)
Global RFID Market to Top $2 Billion in 2005: Marketstrat
Global RFID services revenues are expected to touch $350 million in 2005, according to a new report titled, “RFID Products, Applications and Services Worldwide – A Market Strategy Report.”
Fremont, CA (PRWEB) May 24, 2005 -- RFID technology has been growing steadily in the past 3-4 years and is expected to grow rapidly in the 2006-2009 period, before stabilizing and settling on a steady growth path. The year 2004 was marked by excitement related to mandates, entry of new players, re-positioning of some companies as “RFID focused,” new product and service launches, technology advances, standards evolution, partnerships & alliances, mergers & acquisitions, and general market awareness.
Visit http://www.marketstrat.com/rfid_report.htm for details on the RFID report.
The worldwide market for RFID was $1.49 billion in 2004. RFID hardware components (Readers, Tags, and ICs) accounted for 72% of the market, followed by Services (19%) and Software (9%).
- Worldwide Reader revenues were $290 million and Tag revenues $645 million in 2004.
- Revenues for RFID Hardware (Tags, Readers, ICs) are expected to grow at a CAGR of 28%. Growth in the 2006-2009 period will be high, followed by market stabilization.
- Professional Services are expected to reach $850 million by the year 2010. This segment includes service revenues related to business consulting, pilots, full life cycle implementation, hardware engineering, systems integration, and data analysis.
- The Access Control applications segment is expected to account for $191 million in revenues in North America in 2005.
- In Europe, the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) vertical is expected to account for $126 million in RFID-related spending in 2005.
- The Asia-Pacific market for RFID software was $12.9 million in 2003, and is expected to grow to $339 million by the end of 2012. Asia-Pacific is behind North America and Europe in implementing supply chain management and execution systems and related software. As the demand for RFID increases, companies in Asia-Pacific (particularly Japan, Korea, China, India, and Australia) are expected to look toward implementing comprehensive SCM and SCE solutions with embedded RFID functionality.
The primary beneficiaries of the expected explosion in this market are producers of RFID tags, reader systems, related software, shipping labels, label printers, inks, and antennas. Close behind are leading companies providing software and services for the supply chain function and for the warehouse and transportation industries. Opportunities also abound for transportation and logistics providers – both to improve their own efficiency as well as customer efficiencies. Since RFID does not require line of sight, shipping companies can significantly reduce the time, space, and people needed for inventory handling.
Marketstrat’s latest research finds that the rapid growth rates predicted in 2004 (based on Wal-Mart compliance deadline of January 2005) did not come true. As companies get deeper into RFID planning and analyze potential business process changes, and with the introduction of Gen2 products, the nature and scope of projects will change, with a long-term roadmap. This is a good thing for the RFID ecosystem as a whole, and helps avoid future implosion from poorly planned and implemented solutions.
Despite the rapid growth projected, there are restraints/challenges such as data ownership and partner data integration; data security and privacy; implementation costs; integrating data across multiple facilities; managing large volumes of data; need for business process realignment and privacy issues.
Marketstrat’s two-volume report provides:
- Analysis of current and emerging applications, verticals, technology, evolving standards, competitive frameworks, success strategies, market drivers and restraints.
- Estimates/forecasts for the years 2003-2012 by Product Category (separately for Hardware, Software, and Services); by Application; and by Vertical, for each geographic region.
- Estimates/forecasts for North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World.
- Estimates/forecasts for the following applications: Access Control, Animal Tracking, Asset Management, Baggage Control, Point-of-Sale, Supply Chain Management, Tire Tracking, Vehicle Identification, Other.
- Estimates/forecasts for the following verticals: Automotive, CPG, Defense, Healthcare/Pharmaceutical, Homeland Security, Retail, Transportation, Other.
- Profiles of 525 RFID vendors worldwide. Vendors profiled include makers of components (chips, tags, readers), printers, software, systems integrators, and other service providers.
For additional information on this newly released report (including full table of contents), visit www.marketstrat.com.
About Marketstrat, Inc.:
Marketstrat provides strategy support to companies in the Life Sciences/Healthcare and High-Tech verticals, through published market reports and related consulting services. Marketstrat’s reports have global market coverage, with crisp and concise market analyses, presentation of key findings, recommendations, 5-7 year estimates/forecasts, competitive strategies, purchase considerations, emerging business models, and vendor profiles.
Contact:
Sudheer Yerabati
510-996-7373
e-mail protected from spam bots
Marketstrat, Inc.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:17 AM | Comments (0)
May 23, 2005
Columbus Consulting Earning Respect Among Notables in Retail Space
Columbus Consulting announces Saks Fifth Avenue as new client and adds four industry experts to help support growing demand for consulting services.
Columbus, OH (PRWEB) May 23, 2005 -- Boasting clients such as American Eagle, Ann Taylor, Big Lots, CVS Pharmacy and New York & Company, Columbus Consulting, Inc. has quickly become a force of industry experts that is earning respect from many of the notables in the U.S. and international retail industry. The company offers a variety of business expertise and services designed to help improve a retailer’s merchandising systems and processes, from planning and allocation, supply chain, to reporting and analysis.
Columbus Consulting today announced that it has been hired by Saks Fifth Avenue to help the renowned retailer re-engineer its merchandise planning process. Saks Fifth Avenue is part of Saks Incorporated, one of the nation’s premiere retail enterprises operating 382 stores in 40 states, with more than $6 billion in annual revenues and 50,000 service associates. As part of the project, Columbus Consulting will also assist Saks in selecting a new merchandising planning system, which will be critical in helping the retailer implement and maintain a profitable merchandising process. The first phase of the project, which began in April 2005, marks the first engagement for Columbus Consulting at Saks
In response to the growing demand for its consulting services, Columbus Consulting recently added four industry experts who will be responsible for supporting existing contracts and several major new projects.
“We are successful in helping large retail organizations because we have put together a unique and diverse team of proven leaders and experts who understands the ins and outs of the retail industry, including both merchandising process and technology,” said Richard Amari, president of Columbus Consulting. “We have been experiencing solid growth in the past 18 to 24 months and are establishing a presence in the competitive retail consulting industry. Much of this success can be attributed to our significant expertise in the industry combined with positive referrals from our clients. These clients, which include some of today’s most successful retailers, depend on us to manage critical projects and to deliver results on time and within budget.”
The Columbus team of Richard Amari, Jon Beck, Mike Downing, Don Poirier, and Richard von Hirshberg are industry veterans, each with decades of retail experience. The company recently expanded with the appointments of, Ken Knop, Stuart Tattum, Drew Achabal, and Marc Reifeis as senior consultants.
• Knop has more than 20 years of retail merchandising experience, working with many of the nation’s leading retailers, including Sears Roebuck, Payless Shoesource, LL Bean and Neiman Marcus. Prior to joining Columbus, Knop served as vice president of business process consulting for Planalytics, where he was responsible for complex implementations of inventory planning and control systems, and business processes at retailers and manufacturers nationwide. He also held various management and director-level positions specializing in merchandise planning, allocation and distribution at Comshare, Contempo Casual, Hub Distributing and Mervyn’s. Knop earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and applied science from the University of California at Los Angeles where he graduated magna cum laude. He then earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of California at Berkeley.
• Tattum is a 20-year retail software veteran and began his career at Next, where he was a founding member of the team that developed the initial versions of the Arthur Planning, Assortment Planning and Decision Support applications. He also managed the design and implementation of the Arthur Planning and Decision Support applications at numerous major retailers and wholesalers, and directed the design, development and global roll-out of the initial versions of the Arthur Allocation application. Prior to joining Columbus, Tattum was responsible for retail planning services sales and marketing at Planalytics, and developed and enhanced partnerships with retail software and consulting companies. Prior clients include, Ann Taylor, Neiman Marcus, Target Stores and Wilsons Leather. He earned a bachelor’s of science honors degree from The University of Leeds in England.
• Achabal is an experienced retail consultant and comes to Columbus after serving for five years as engagement manager and senior retail planning consultant at Planalytics, where he was responsible for managing the day-to-day customer relationship for Gap, Inc. He has overseen critical assortment planning implementations, including system planning and design at several major retailers. Achabal earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, Calif.
• Reifeis is an experienced, senior-level retail executive who began his career with KPMG/Peat Marwick, LLP. During the past 13 years, he has held progressively more senior roles across the Limited Brands organization, including work in Victoria’s Secret stores. Major accomplishments include the implementation of an enterprise data warehouse and leading enterprise human resource and payroll systems. Reifies earned a bachelor’s of science degree in computer information science – engineering from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.
“We are excited about adding Stuart, Ken, Marc and Drew to our team and look forward to their contributions to the ongoing success of Columbus Consulting,” added Amari. “Each person brings unique talents, as well as significant retail experience that will help us to serve our clients better and expand our reach. Among our team members are individuals who led the development of the world’s leading merchandise planning applications, and conceived and advocated system concepts and business processes relating to merchandise planning and allocation that are today accepted as industry best practices. With more than 150 years of combined experience in the retail industry, we have a unique understanding of implementing effective and efficient merchandising systems that have helped multi-million and multi-billion dollar organizations improve their business processes.”
About Columbus Consulting, Inc.
Founded by industry veteran Richard Amari in 2001, Columbus Consulting, Inc. is comprised of a team of highly experienced specialists in retail systems and processes. The company works with many of the world’s largest and well-known retailers, general merchandisers and apparel stores, including American Eagle, Anne Taylor, Big Lots, CVS Pharmacy, and New York & Company . Columbus Consulting is called upon to provide a variety of services, from managing short-term, high-impact, executive-level advisory services on matters of strategic importance relating to retail systems and processes, to overseeing large, multi-disciplinary, multi-million dollar projects, lasting more than a year. The company is based in Columbus, Ohio. For more information on Columbus Consulting, visit www.columbusconsultinginc.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 07:09 AM | Comments (0)
ImageID Joins AIM Global -- Signals Growing Industrywide Collaboration in Automatic Identification and Mobile Technology
ImageID Ltd., provider of the Visidot Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) system, announced today that it has joined AIM Global, the association for Automatic Identification and Mobility. AIM Global works to increase the understanding and adoption of Auto ID, RFID and enterprise mobile computing through education, standards, and cooperation with other leading industry associations. Started more than 30 years ago, AIM Global is the voice of Automatic Identification and Mobility technologies such as bar code, RFID, and enterprise mobile computing.
Warrendale, PA (PRWEB) May 23, 2005 -- ImageID Ltd., provider of the Visidot Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) system, announced today that it has joined AIM Global, the association for Automatic Identification and Mobility. AIM Global works to increase the understanding and adoption of Auto ID, RFID and enterprise mobile computing through education, standards, and cooperation with other leading industry associations. Started more than 30 years ago, AIM Global is the voice of Automatic Identification and Mobility technologies such as bar code, RFID, and enterprise mobile computing.
As a member of AIM Global, ImageID will join other leading companies who are committed to the growth of automatic identification and mobility solutions through industry standards development, advocacy and the support of a global channel network. In particular, ImageID’s Visidot auto ID specialists will participate in the RFID Experts Group (REG), a group of RFID (radio frequency identification) expert advisors working to address implementation issues related to supply chain adoption of RFID systems. ImageID will be working with the REG on its initiatives for implementing bar code solutions in conjunction with RFID tagging for operations that do not have reliable RFID reading throughout their supply chains.
"We are looking forward to working with AIM and the RFID Experts Group to promote visibility-enhancing initiatives for multiple-asset scanning, such as adding bar codes to RFID-tagged assets. Effective collaboration to meet the challenges of multiple-asset data capture will benefit the entire AIDC industry," said David Reis, CEO of ImageID.
"We are pleased that ImageID, the developers of the Visidot technology, is committed to partnering with us in the development of standards and educational materials for Automatic Identification and Mobility technologies. Their participation in AIM Global is a strong indication of its support of our technologies to ultimately help companies in multiple industries become more competitive while saving time and money," said Dan Mullen, AIM Global president.
About ImageID
ImageID, the provider of the Visidot™ solution (www.visidot.com), develops and markets advanced multiple-asset Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) solutions. Based on imaging technology and sophisticated algorithms, the Visidot solution is capable of identifying and decoding hundreds of unique standard barcodes simultaneously in a single read, with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The Visidot solution is being used in retail supply chains, automotive manufacturing and reusable assets pool management operations to provide per-asset visibility and to increase operational efficiencies. ImageID is a multinational company with R&D facilities in Israel and direct sales and partner networks in the US and Europe.
About AIM Global
For more than 30 years, AIM Global has served as the association for and worldwide authority on automatic identification, data collection and networking in a mobile environment. AIM members are providers and users of technologies, systems, and services that capture, manage, and integrate accurate data into larger information systems. Serving more than 900 members in 43 countries, AIM is dedicated to accelerating the growth and use of Automatic Identification and Mobility technologies and services around the world.
AIM Global has an active educational focus, providing accurate and unbiased information on AIDC technology, standards, and applications. For more information on AIM programs, please visit www.aimglobal.org/calendar.
As part of its educational outreach, AIM Global publishes "RFID Connections," the industry's oldest and most respected e-newsletter on RFID. For a free subscription, please visit http://subscriptions.aimglobal.org.
For more information on AIM Global, its technologies and its members, please visit www.aimglobal.org or www.rfid.org.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 07:08 AM | Comments (0)
TagStone Commences Operations as Premier RFID Systems Integrator and Consultancy
Newly established Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) consultancy TagStone, has partnered with global giants Oracle, UPM Rafsec, SAMSys and Printronix to provide comprehensive RFID solutions in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
(PRWEB) May 22, 2005 -- Founded in Kuwait, with its regional headquarters and RFID testing and demonstration facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, TagStone aims to be a key player in the region, by introducing and implementing RFID solutions for companies across industries and borders.
Jointly addressing a press conference, TagStone and their partners, Oracle, UPM Rafsec and SAMSys spoke of the importance of RFID and its impact on industry in the region. "RFID is a revolutionary technology and deploying these solutions in enterprises leads to streamlined business processes with total visibility. Around the world, RFID solutions are recognised as key to tremendous cost savings across an extended chain of suppliers, partners and customers. TagStone will bring together all the key components required to provide clients with complete end-to-end RFID solutions, from consulting to implementation and ongoing support," it was announced.
The CEO of TagStone, Faisal Al Gharabally outlined the vision and mission of the new company: "At TagStone, we will deploy versatile, integrated and robust RFID solutions across the aviation, healthcare, retail, supply chain, manufacturing, automotive and oil and gas industries located in the Middle East to retaine our status as innovators and leaders. Our vision is to create a world of 'smart' objects where every object is able to interact with other objects through RFID technology and our mission is to enable clients to have real-time visibility, control and information of their processes through effective evaluation, implementation, integration and support of RFID and related technologies."
As a full-solution, premier RFID systems integrator and consultancy, TagStone will handle business assessment, process and technology blending, solution architecture, technology selection, and solution integration and support.
In an environment of technology cost compression, the company has built a stable of global technology partners that are best in breed and span a wide range of solutions to support small, medium and large enterprises. "TagStone is driven to give our clients the professionalism and expertise of larger system integration firms with the client care and value of an agile focused solution integration team. We are based on a seasoned team of strategy, business, and technology professionals," said Faisal Al Gharabally, introducing Oracle, UPM Rafsec and SAMSys and Printronix as TagStone partners, at the press conference.
Presenting RFID as a technology which is flexible in its application, Edwin W. Kalischnig - Director, RFID Business Development of Oracle (Europe), explained that RFID solutions allow seamless integration of a range of business needs incorporating new technology, standards and industry mandates. By automating erroneous and laborious manual processes, RFID optimises supply chains, speeds up payment systems and tracks assets - on a 24/7 basis. "We are pleased to partner with TagStone in their endeavour to focus on RFID solutions for the Middle East. Together, we see a significant value creation opportunity in the blending of existing technologies like affordable management systems and emerging technologies like next generation RFID. This balanced approach will allow TagStone to be one of the key players in the industry, by capturing the very first opportunities to help companies truly improve operational efficiency," he stated. Edward Lu - Business Development Director UPM Rafsec (Asia) and Julie Cooper - Sales Manager SAMSys Technologies (Europe), also spoke at the conference, confirming their partnership with TagStone.
TagStone's Dubai office will service companies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA region) and later extend services to Asia.
Andreas Kolb, COO of TagStone explained: "We have the hardware, software, and mindware needed to provide clients with end-to-end RFID solutions. The EMEA region offers a colossal market as key cities continue to develop into significant logistics, manufacturing and marketing hubs. The combination of intelligent enterprises, emphasis on innovation, and the knowledge economy provides a conducive and stimulated environment that is ready for RFID solutions from TagStone. With the combined strengths of our partners, we see ourselves at the forefront of a slow but steady revolution across industries and borders in the region," he stated.
TagStone's RFID solutions incorporate RFID Middleware from Oracle, RFID readers from SAMSys, RFID tags from UPM Rafsec and RFID printers from Printronix.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 07:06 AM | Comments (0)
Northcutt Trucking Awarded Carrier of the Year
Northcutt Trucking has been awarded “Carrier of the Year” for 2004 by customer, C.H. Robinson.
CLEVELAND, OH (PRWEB) May 22, 2005 -- Northcutt Trucking, the Elyria-based trucking company, announced today that it has been awarded “Carrier of the Year” for 2004 by customer, C.H. Robinson, the Minnesota-based third party logistics company. The Cleveland office of C.H. Robinson chose five recipients to honor with the 2004 award.
“We are honored to have been chosen as a Carrier of the Year by C.H. Robinson,” said Charlie Northcutt, President of Northcutt Trucking. “Being a small business owner, I certainly understand the relationship between providing great customer service and my bottom line. I try to treat my customers and employees like family and have enjoyed our relationship with C.H. Robinson. It is very rewarding to be honored in this way by a customer, especially when the customer is a long-standing, reputable company like C.H. Robinson. This means a great deal to all of us and we really are honored to be recognized in this way,” he added.
“Northcutt Trucking has shown great dedication to both C.H. Robinson and our customers and should be used as a model for all carriers,” said Steve Rozman, Operations Manager. “We sincerely appreciate the consistent and reliable approach of their people and recognize that their hard work is the foundation of success for both our companies. We look forward to our continued alliance with Northcutt Trucking and are pleased to honor them as a top carrier for 2004,” he added.
About Northcutt Trucking
Northcutt Trucking is a national trucking company headquartered in Elyria, Ohio. Founded in 1997 by long-time trucking industry veteran, Charlie Northcutt, Northcutt Trucking offers 53 foot dry van trailers and specializes in dry freight. Northcutt Trucking provides transportation solutions nationally and partners with its customers to help ensure their success with every load. Northcutt Trucking understands that their customers depend on them to safely transport their products on time and on budget – and Northcutt Trucking delivers.
About C.H. Robinson
Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson is one of North America’s largest third party logistics companies with operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe and Asia. C.H. Robinson provides truck, rail, ocean and air transportation throughout the world. Headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, C.H. Robinson has been listed as one of America’s most admired companies by Fortune Magazine. C.H. Robinson manages relationships with carriers world-wide so their customers can focus on their businesses, just like 16,000 of them did just last year.
For more information, contact:
Charlie Northcutt
Founder & President
Northcutt Trucking
440.458.5139
e-mail protected from spam bots
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 07:06 AM | Comments (0)
Atlanta Web Design Firm Launches Supply Chain Consultancy Website
Bellwether Logistics Services Website launched by Southern Web Group
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 22, 2005 -- Atlanta-based Southern Web Group is pleased to announce the launch of the Website for Bellwether Logistics Services, located at www.bellwether-services.com, a supply chain consultancy based in Stockbridge, Georgia.
The Henry County, Georgia, company provides supply chain analysis, including Lean Six Sigma, DFSS, QFD, ISO 9001:2000, Global Transportation Management, DMAIC and DMADV analysis.
Site visitors can expect to see current information about supply chain management and business process management.
Bellwether Logistics Services’ Website contains a wide array of information, including press releases and many case studies that underscore the company’s dedication to success. Bellwether is dedicated to providing effective solutions to manufacturing, R&D, telecommunications, government, transportation, market research, call center, automotive suppliers, aerospace, food & beverage, consumer products, and supply chain operations. Bellwether was founded in 2001 as Consult Quality, LLC, as a flagship Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2000) Solution Provider for federal government contractors. The name change reflects the growth and additional service offerings.
Founded in 1999, Southern Web Group is a leader in Atlanta’s Web design industry and can be found on the Web at www.southernwebgroup.com. With a growing clientele across the country, the Atlanta Web design firm is pleased to welcome Bellwether Logistics Services to its list of clients that already includes the Henry Medical Center, the American Civil Liberties Union and Georgia Office of Homeland Security.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 07:04 AM | Comments (0)
Associated Packaging Technologies (APT) Names Gary Nevill as European Business Development Manager
May 23, 2005
Chadds Ford, PA
Associated Packaging Technologies (APT), the leading global supplier of thermoformed CPET food trays, has hired Gary Nevill as UK/European Business Development Manager. Nevill most recently was National Accounts Manager for Huhtamaki Van Leer where he provided thermoformed plastic solutions to various food manufacturers in the UK and Europe. At Associated Packaging Technologies Nevill will be responsible for expansion and maintenance of UK and European customers and report to John Giordani, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Technical Sales.
APT is the world's largest vertically integrated manufacturer of CPET dual-ovenable containers for the food industry, the leading source for plastic food trays in the North American frozen food industry, and a major source for plastic food trays in other markets, including case ready meats, institutional, prepared foods, and bakery. The company has thermoforming plants in: Cambridge, Ontario; Waynesville, North Carolina; Chillicothe, Missouri; and Carrickmacross, Ireland.
For more information, contact: Associated Packaging Technologies, 1 Dickinson Drive, Suite 100, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, 484-785-1120, Fax: 484-785-1121, www.APTechnologies.com, www.CR-Freshlock.com email:info@APTechnologies.com
Press Contacts:
John L. Giordani, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Technical Sales
484-785-1124, e-mail: giordani@APTechnologies.com
Dan Ditzler, Newton Associates
610-964-9300, e-mail: dand@newtonassociates.com
Posted by Industrial at 12:37 AM | Comments (0)
May 19, 2005
DDL West Addresses Declining CA Packaging Standards - Helps Manufacturers Maintain Package Integrity & Contain Costs
DDL West addresses declining packaging standards in California by helping manufacturers maintain package integrity and contain costs.
Costa Mesa, CA (PRWEB) May 19, 2005 -- http://www.testedandproven.com - DDL West, a CA-based package, product and material testing laboratory is addressing declining packaging standards in California by helping manufacturers maintain package integrity and contain costs.
California-based medical device manufacturers are increasingly struggling to maintain the integrity of their packaging while staying within budget.
“Many CA-based manufacturers are cutting down on the amount of testing they do in order to save money,” said Michael Foster, DDL West Package Engineer. “Instead of testing 30 package samples, they may only test 10, which results in a much lower confidence level.”
Packaging is not only failing integrity testing due to cost cutting, but also because many manufacturers are choosing the wrong type of packaging for their product. Since the majority of medical devices have sharp edges or points, it is vital to choose packaging that cannot be perforated.
“DDL West is educating clientele via its growing suite of complimentary PackServices,” said Foster. “DDL West offers comprehensive consultation to identify manufacturers’ individual package testing requirements and to determine the best value for their testing dollars.”
DDL West is helping medical device manufacturers maintain the integrity of their packaging with advice on how to:
- Choose the right materials for their packaging
- Submit the correct number of package samples for a 90-95% confidence level
- Maximize on their package testing investment
- Eliminate costs of re-testing
For expert advice on maintaining cost effective package integrity, visit http://www.testedandproven.com or call Mike Foster at (714) 979-1712 ext. 16.
About DDL West:
DDL West offers expert package testing, product testing and material testing services including Shock testing, vibration testing, tensile testing, leak testing and validation. DDL package testing clients find value through its zero-cost package testing consulting service, Pack-Advice.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:25 AM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2005
Plastic Bins Stack Up Workplace Efficiency, Save Money
Stor-Quip Systems, Inc., a leading plastic bins and storage systems distributor, demonstrates that plastic bins and reusable containers improve workplace efficiency and ultimately save money.
(PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- Stor-Quip Systems, Inc., a leading plastic bins and storage systems distributor, demonstrates that plastic bins and reusable containers improve workplace efficiency and ultimately save money. Plastic bins are coming to the forefront as workable and affordable solutions to storage needs and organization.
Stor-Quip Systems believes businesses are finding that plastic bins serve many organizational needs and at the same time save money that would otherwise be spent on cardboard containers. Plastic bins are stackable, easily organized, and designed so that parts are easily identified and obtainable. As such, plastic bins improve inventory control and also by design are sturdier than cardboard containers.
“The Lewis Bins+ plastic bins protect my product better than other brands I have tried,” said Mark Worth, President of Marko Systems, Inc., and a customer of Stor-Quip. “Since the sides are rigid and don’t bow outward, I can now take a bin off my shelf without worrying about accidentally pulling the one next to it off the shelf as well.”
Reusable containers are becoming viable transportation options for warehouses and distributors. These containers save money because they can transport product and be repeatedly used. They nest with other containers when empty and are stackable when in use.
Plastic bins and reusable containers from Stor-Quip can provide:
• Better organization of products
• Improved workflow
• Money saved that would otherwise be spent on cardboard
Find more information on plastic bins and reusable containers by visiting www.StorQuip.com or calling 1-888-392-STOR or 1-888-392-7867.
About Stor-Quip Systems, Inc.
A leading plastic bins and storage systems distributor, Stor-Quip Systems, Inc. is dedicated to providing high quality storage systems and equipment with exceptional customer service. The are located in Owasso, Oklahoma.
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Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:06 AM | Comments (0)
Mere Mortal Managers: Senior Management “Called on the Carpet” Before Leading Transition to Lean Manufacturing
TPS president Bill Hanover encourages top managers to abandon destructive, dictator management styles and practices to create a Lean Manufacturing Culture. In a series of three articles, “Mere Mortal Managers,” Hanover helps managers effectively lead their Lean transition.
Logan, Utah (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) May 18, 2005 -- TPS president Bill Hanover encourages top managers to abandon destructive, dictator management styles and practices to create a Lean Manufacturing Culture. “Mere Mortal Managers,” a series of 3 articles, helps managers effectively lead their Lean transition.
Real world strategies are proposed to help managers “Self-Correct,” “Prepare,” and “Execute” the necessary transformation to Lean Manufacturing and World Class Excellence.
As a matter of survival all companies must become Lean if they are to remain profitable whether they compete in local or global markets. Customers demand absolute quality, on-time delivery, very short lead-times, and numerous product style choices with uncompromising expectations. Lean manufacturing enables companies to meet these demands.
Senior managers leading the way through a Lean transformation are riddled with flaws and inadequacies making it difficult to win the hearts, minds, and efforts of their employees. Managers are asked to take a good hard look in the mirror as they become the type of leaders that can effectively take the company and staff where they need to go: Lean.
Lean principles are not exclusive to manufacturing. Every manager can benefit from the practical advice in “Mere Mortal Managers” and apply the tools of Lean in virtually any company. Managers must become “Lean Leaders” if they are to effectively eliminate wasteful practices and facilitate process improvements.
For more information regarding “Mere Mortal Managers” or Lean Manufacturing please contact Bill Hanover or visit www.tpslean.com. Full version articles available at http://www.tpslean.com/leanwaystoimp.htm.
About TPS - ThroughPut Solutions:
TPS is a Lean Manufacturing Consulting & Implementation firm specializing in very fast self-funding Lean manufacturing and process improvement implementations. Now in their 10th year of serving clients TPS has saved and helped companies earn millions by implementing waste eliminating improvements.
Contact:
Bill Hanover, president TPS – ThroughPut Solutions
415 East 600 South
River Heights, Utah 84321
435-792-4380
http://www.tpslean.com