Industrial Manufacturing News

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March 31, 2006

SolidWorks Reseller CADVenture Announces New Tools Including a Virtual Office for SolidWorks 3D CAD Subscription Customers

Moving to CADVenture's Virtual Office provides SolidWorks instructor-led classes to companies, adding convenience while saving them time and money. Hundreds of new companies in tri-state area choose CADVenture for SolidWorks 3D CAD support to increase their productivity while lowering costs.

Willoughby, OH (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- As part of its broader strategy to make it easier for SolidWorks organizations in the tri state area of Ohio, Northwest Pennsylvania, and Western New York to fully realize the benefits of the SolidWorks 3D CAD platform, CADVenture today announced a suite of new and updated tools to help organizations gain immediate access to support personnel and training aids that dramatically increase end-user productivity while helping clients reduce costs.

These tools, which are available free of charge to all CADVenture's clients with active SolidWorks Subscription Service, include the CADVenture Virtual Office, Virtual Tech Talks, and Virtual Night Schools. In addition, CADVenture announced the immediate availability of all SolidWorks Instructor led classes through the Virtual Office. These tools benefit customers by eliminating wasted time and travel from the support and training equation thus reducing costs significantly.

“Every year CADVenture has been investing in an infrastructure that will allow us to better serve our customers”, said Richard Schreiner, Vice President of CADVenture, Inc. “This announcement is a big step in our overall strategy toward helping customers realize productivity gains as quickly as possible, so they can begin to take full advantage of SolidWorks benefits in the shortest amount of time imaginable. After a thorough analysis of our environment, we recognized that we could significantly cut costs and increase productivity for our customers by virtually eliminating the amount of travel time for our customers and technical personnel by replacing it with a tool that would provide the feel of a live meeting. After all, time is money.”

Services that would normally require participants to travel to the reseller are now available in real time online. The Virtual Office goes way beyond simple file sharing. Capabilities that allow CADVenture to convoke instant, ad hoc meetings with the right people needing information to make urgent decisions is the foundation to the Virtual Office. The benefits of video conferencing and cutting travel costs, make the online Virtual Office more effective than getting together in the same physical location.

“Virtual Office is the future of this industry”, stated Ken Zebracki, President of CADVenture. “Customers are demanding information that is accessible at a moment's notice. Too many resellers of technology utilize antiquated tools to service their customers. Our goal was to offer our customers a platform that would make communication and collaboration with CADVenture personnel instantaneous, seamless and extremely easy to use. Without question, Virtual Office is a home run. Today our SolidWorks support has matched the innovation displayed by SolidWorks in the development of their software.”

Founded in 1985, CADVenture is the Great Lakes leader in SolidWorks sales, services and solutions that help businesses realize their full engineering potential. CADVenture specializes in SolidWorks 3D CAD, finite element analysis, kinematics, fluid dynamics and other intelligent product design solutions. CADVenture has won awards for providing outstanding support to its clients by SolidWorks in seven of the last nine years, providing unique training, user meetings, and night school programs. Headquartered outside Cleveland, Ohio, CADVenture is 100-percent focused on providing design solutions that reduce design cycles, minimize design errors, and improve time to market. A leader in the CAD/CAM/CAE markets, CADVenture helps customers leverage the latest design technologies to design better products faster and at lower cost.

For more information on CAD solutions, visit CADVenture at www.cadventureinc.com or call +1-440-954-9589.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:50 PM | Comments (0)

Secrets to Unlocking the Treasures Hidden in Your Business Revealed

A majority of business owners are unaware of the treasures buried within their own business enterprises. Author Grover Rutter CPA/ABV, CVA, BVAL provides an easy and detailed "How-To" guide that shares these wealth building secrets with business owners.

Findlay, OH (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- They are usually buried just below the surface. Maybe you have seen them by accident... but what you saw failed to register. Possibly you have even mistaken them as hindrances to your business; much in the same manner as our ancestors believed that crude oil oozing in wells and pasture lands was a curse. (Folks just weren't ready or able to make use of the smelly black stuff.)

CPA and author Grover Rutter has unveiled the secrets necessary for you to mine and profitably process the otherwise secret wealth hidden in your business. In his second book, How to Sell Your Business for the MOST Money (Secrets to Unlocking the Treasures Hidden in Your Business), readers are provided with a step by step approach to dramatically increase the value of their businesses.

Mr. Rutter’s sole business is to value and sell businesses for owners wanting to retire—or who are just burnt out. “Over 50% of all privately held businesses sold in the United States are sold because the owners are burnt out,” Rutter explains. “Retirement is not the number one reason why business owners want to get out of business. But no matter why or when you get out of business, the amount of money you get for your business is extremely important to your financial well-being.”

"It doesn't matter whether you are new in business--or ready to retire," explains Rutter. "The trick to mastering true liquidity and wealth in any business is really no trick at all. You just have to know what to do and how to do it... It's really easy when you know how--and that is what I am sharing with folks."

Meant to be a quick-read for those with busy schedules--Rutter's newest book is immediately available in print or electronic format at http://www.lulu.com/businessadvisor. It will also be available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com and Borders' Books online around June 1, 2006.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:48 PM | Comments (0)

Thatcher Technology Group Team Expands

Thatcher Technology Group is pleased to announce that Karen Isely has accepted the position of Director of Sales Consulting. Isely comes to Thatcher Technology with a successful 20 year history in building and managing effective sales consulting organizations, with emphasis on selling and delivering world class solutions and building strong customer relationships. Isely has worked with companies in the Financial Services, High Tech, Retail, Pharma, Automotive, Telco, and Manufacturing industries.

ADDISON, IL (PRWEB) March 28, 2006 -– Thatcher Technology Group is pleased to announce that Karen Isely has accepted the position of Director of Sales Consulting. Isely comes to Thatcher Technology with a successful 20 year history in building and managing effective sales consulting organizations, with emphasis on selling and delivering world class solutions and building strong customer relationships.

Isely will bring to Thatcher Technology her experience of helping hundreds of organizations define their Enterprise Incentive Compensation Management requirements and determine how new technologies and best practices can help solve their business problems and provide total solutions. Isely has worked with companies in the Financial Services, High Tech, Retail, Pharma, Automotive, Telco, and Manufacturing industries.

Isely resides in Batavia, IL.

About Thatcher Technology
Thatcher Technology Group has more than 25 years of creating and implementing software solutions that fuel growth in direct sales organizations. Prowess™ Software Solutions Suite is a powerful, scalable genealogy, compensation and incentive management system for direct and multi-level sales organizations. Prowess™ helps turn high-volume, complex sales activities into seamless, cost-effective processes. For more information, visit their website at www.thatchertech.com

Media Contact: For more information on Thatcher Technology Group, please contact Beth Peterson, (847) 931-9375.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:47 PM | Comments (0)

Men's Hair Styles and Street Trends 2006 - Just Released!

The most advanced and detailed clipper cutting DVD available on the US market today. Endorsed by beauty schools and barber shops nationwide. A brand new 2006 edition.

(PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- Since the launch of our Video "Entering the Art Zone," in January 2006 we have received an overwhelming response from Barbers and Stylists nationwide. Because of this, we have added The Community portion to our web site, www.enteringtheartzone.com to better communicate with industry professionals.

Since this time we have also been endorsed by Beauty Schools and Barber Shops nationwide, wherein they are using this video "Entering the Art Zone" as an instructional tool.

Educators have testified that this instructional video has helped barbers and stylists alike to develop techniques that are not traditionally practiced in the industry.

“Entering The Art Zone has just released one of the most comprehensive and best hair clipper instructional DVD’s we’ve ever seen. These DVD’s are a must for stylists, schools, and educators who want to expand on their skills and techniques.” --Francesco Rizzuto President & CEO Hair-brain.com

Entering The Art Zone was created specifically for the Barber and Stylist to develop a mind set to become, extraordinary. Clipper cutting is the number 1 choice for men’s grooming today. Entering the Art Zone teaches you Clipper Cutting Techniques to work with all hair textures and types with precision and accuracy.

Learn to perfect many of the latest men’s hairstyles and barbering trends such as: Blowouts, Fade haircut, Temple Fade, taper fade, Bald Fade (Skin Fade), Half Fades, low fade hair cut, Brooklyn fade hair cut, black fade haircut, buzz cut, crew cut, Caesar haircut, Mohawk, razor cuts, texturing, clipper over comb, man hair cut, man hair style, Outlining and Beard Shapeups.

This video is a must have. Check us out: www.enteringtheartzone.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:46 PM | Comments (0)

wfnn.info Started Coverage on Kansai Mining Finding Gold and Diamonds

http://freestock1.com and WFNN coverage on Kansai Mining finding diamonds and gold.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 – WFNN continues report on companies to highlight companies believed to have high growth prospects. Dr. Joseph Louis deBeauchamp posted his report on six sites to allow investors to read about these companies.

WFNN said, “WFNN sees the stock lifted back up to the dollar range. The management went through some changes, and appears back on track. WFNN believes that the latest mining activity shows promise to finally drive some revenue flows and profits to the bottom line. The pricing on gold and diamonds makes this company well positioned to move sharply upward, and the price for these commodities continues to rise."

For information of these events examine: http://freestock1.com and http://wfnn.info for the information.

About Kansai Mining: Kansai Mining Corporation is a Canadian based mineral exploration & development company with its registered office in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. The company's mineral portfolio currently comprises two major projects: the Migori Gold Project in Kenya and the Natal Diamond Project in Venezuela. The company continues to focus on enhancing shareholder value through the exploration of these two major projects, with the objective of taking both projects, if warranted, to the production stage.

Thomas L. Crom
Chief Financial Officer
Kansai Mining Corporation (symbol: KAN on TSXV)
Telephone 928 474-9151
Fax 928 474-8354
http://www.kansaimining.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:45 PM | Comments (0)

Global Caché and Niveus Media Form Strategic Alliance

Niveus and Global Caché to Connect Common Household Devices to Media Server

Jacksonville, OR and Santa Clara, CA (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- Global Caché, the award-winning manufacturer of IP-enabling products, and Niveus Media, manufacturer of media entertainment devices for the high-end audio/video market, announced today they have signed an agreement that provides the framework for the two companies to collaborate on marketing and assures product compatibility.

Global Caché's GC-100 Network Adapter allows common household devices to be connected to a network and controlled via network-based software. In addition, Global Caché provides products for learning infrared (IR) codes, extending IR functions over a network, and sensors and specialized connectivity products. The Niveus Media Center product line, recently recognized by Popular Science as the Best of What’s New for 2005, offers a high fidelity audio and video experience, including movies, music, photos, games and more.

“Partnering up with Global Caché assures our customers of seamless product compatibility and provides them with the ability to connect previously un-networked devices to the Niveus Media Center,” said Brian Paper, VP Marketing for Niveus Media. “This opens up exciting new market opportunities for our customer base, including cost-effective entertainment automation, as well as whole-house control. The agreement furthers our goal of delivering full services and features on the Niveus Media Center.”

“We’re very enthusiastic about this new alliance with Niveus,” said Robin Ford, Global Caché’s VP of Business Development. “With the convergence of the IT and consumer electronic markets, and the current migration in the digital home market to open standards-based systems from high-cost proprietary systems, this kind of alliance is essential. Our respective customers can be assured that our products are work well together and they have the choice in best-of-breed products.”

About Global Caché, Inc.
Global Caché is dedicated to producing state-of-the-art products that enable technology in homes and businesses. Our award-winning GC-100 Network Adapter provides the means for PC-based automation and management software to access, control, and deliver services in a networked home or business to diverse and previously unconnected devices and appliances. In addition, Global Caché provides an IR learner, winner of the prestigious CEPro Product of the Year award for IP-enabling, receivers, sensors, and other connectivity products. Global Caché sells through distributors, VARs, and OEMs. For more information on Global Caché and our products and services, visit online at www.globalcache.com or call us at 541-899-4800.

About Niveus
Founded in 2002, Niveus Media, Inc. is a Santa Clara, California hardware and software maker, specializing in media entertainment devices for the consumer electronics market. Niveus Media is dedicated to delivering innovative, integrated consumer electronics devices for the networked home. Additional information can be found at: www.niveusmedia.com.

Media Contacts:
Global Caché/Rusty Keller
541-899-4800

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:44 PM | Comments (0)

AquaSensors Joins Modbus-IDA and Introduces Modbus Water Sensors DataStick Sensors Communicate Analog Values with 24-bit Accuracy Over Modbus

AquaSensors Modbus version of its patented DataStick family of analytical sensors that communicate directly with Programmable Logic Controllers, PCs, and process controllers using Modbus, DeviceNet, Profibus,Rockwell DF-1, USB, RS-232, and RS-485. DataSticks delivers flawless 24 bit resolution analog data directly over industrial networks to measure pH, ORP, DO, Ozone, Conductivity, Suspended Solids, and Resistivity. This enables PLCs, PCs, and industrial computers to perform in applications that could only be done previously with costly process control and DCS systems. DataSticks delivers significant cost savings by simplifying installation, maintenance and calibration.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

AquaSensors Joins Modbus-IDA and Introduces Modbus Water Sensors

DataStick sensors communicate analog values with 24-bit accuracy over Modbus.

Ideal applications include water, wastewater, food, beverage, oil & gas, chemical, and pulp & paper.

Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin: AquaSensors has introduced a Modbus version of its patented DataStick™ family of analytical sensors to the process market. The DataStick systems communicate directly with Programmable Logic Controllers, PCs, and process controllers using Modbus. DataStick sensors are plug and play delivering flawless 24-bit resolution analog data directly over Modbus communications networks to measure pH, ORP, DO, Ozone, Conductivity, Suspended Solids, Turbidity, and Resistivity. This enables PLCs, PCs, and industrial computers to perform in applications that could only be done previously with costly process control and DCS systems.

The DataStick delivers significant cost savings by simplifying installation, maintenance and calibration. The DataStick is remotely calibrated, configured and diagnosed with any computer, HMI, or PLC through a single Modbus cable.
The DataStick has three basic interchangeable parts that increase reliability, simplify maintenance, and lower MRO inventory. These parts are described as follows:

DataStick Sensor body
The DataStickTM sensor body is common to all applications and accepts DataStick sensor heads and DataStick network interfaces. The DataStick has an integrated 24-bit analog to digital converter insuring high quality data. The DataStick sensor body automatically detects the sensor head type connected to it and configures itself to send data through the DataStick network interface module.

DataStick Sensor Head
DataStick’s factory calibrated sensor heads are plug-and-play with any DataStick body eliminating the need for lengthy calibrations in the field. This makes it possible to have processes up and running in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional sensors. Signal loss or electrical interference from wiring is eliminated with this feature.

Maintenance and repair is greatly simplified with the DataStick’s hot swappable sensor heads. The heads can be changed without replacing the entire sensor and avoids rewiring. No more fumbling around with calibration solutions in the field, simply swap DataStick sensor heads and return to the office or lab for calibration.

Modbus Interface Modules
The Modbus network interface module allows the DataStick to communicate directly to an HMI, PLC or process controller.

Integrated Sensor System
The DataStick’s measurement architecture eliminates the requirement for intermediate analyzers or transmitter boxes. This reduces system costs, increases accuracy, and enables faster installation by eliminating the need to configure measurement scales after installation. The system does not require traditional 4-20 loops for data reporting which further reduces costs and improves system accuracy by eliminating scaling errors.

The DataStick is powered with network power or 9-30 VDC standard control panel power supplies.
MRO inventory is reduced since Network Interface Modules and DataStick bodies are common to all sensor heads.

AquaSensors offers standard fitting shapes/sizes for common mounting applications; AquaSensors engineers can custom design the DataStick body to fit any shape or size of fitting. Sensor bodies are available in CPVC, 316 Stainless Steel, PEEK® and other materials.

AquaSensors is a member of the Modbus-IDA, an organization of independent users and suppliers of automation devices that seek to drive the adoption of the Modbus communication protocol suite and the evolution to address architectures for distributed automation systems across multiple market segments. www.modbus-ida.org. Lenore Tracey, Executive Director of Modbus-IDA, commented, “We are delighted to welcome AquaSensors as one of our newest members, and invite users to learn more about the DataStick product line in our growing Modbus device database.” The Modbus device database can be found at: www.modbus.org/companies.php

“Modbus is a perfect match to the DataStick sensors enabling many sensors to be seamlessly networked to a PLC, PC, or process controller,” commented Bruce Bathust, president and cofounder of AquaSensors. The high accuracy DataStick modular sensor system enables programmable controllers, industrial PCs, and commercial PCs to perform in a wide range of applications that in the past could only be done with expensive Distributed Control Systems (DCS) or process instruments.

AquaSensors LLC was established to develop revolutionary sensors with integrated digital communications, remote adjustments, interchangeable factory calibrated sensor heads, and plug-and-play installation.

CONTACTS:
Bruce Bathurst, President
AquaSensors, LLC
Phone: (262) 255-4459
FAX: (262) 255-4708
www.aquasensors.com

Bill Lydon
Applied Marketing Concepts
Phone: 414-427-5853
Cell Phone: 414-704-5004
www.mrktgsolutions.com

For electronic images, call 414-427-5853, or e-mail with your preferred file formats.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:43 PM | Comments (0)

Boston Engineering Expands Its “Complete Solutions” Offering by Becoming a PTC® Authorized Channel Partner

Boston Engineering becomes a VAR for PTC’s engineering software tools--Pro/ENGINEER Mechanical CAD and Windchill Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)--to offer clients better access to collaboration tools and product development services. Boston Engineering is hiring additional sales and applications engineers to expand the team and channel program.

Boston, MA (PRWEB) April 1, 2006 -- In a move designed to help the company offer more complete solutions to its clients, Boston Engineering Corporation, a Waltham-based outsourced engineering services firm, today announced an agreement with PTC (Nasdaq: PMTC) to become an authorized reseller in the PTC Channel Advantage™ Program, for their Pro/ENGINEER® Mechanical CAD and Windchill® Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software tools.

Pro/ENGINEER is a 3D product design solution that helps companies develop detailed, intuitive and realistic digital product representations. Windchill is a product data management and project management solution that helps companies control product development data and enable internal and external product development collaboration. “At Boston Engineering, our distinction has always been to offer Total System Responsibility™ (TSR) approaches and thinking. Becoming a channel partner for PTC is taking this a step further,” said Mark Smithers, vice president and COO of Boston Engineering. “Not only can we help customers develop engineering products, we can provide installation and education for the tools that will help them get there.”

By becoming a value-added reseller (VAR), Boston Engineering is following a successful model used by PTC over the last few years. "Our engineering staff has years of experience using PTC tools to develop solutions for our clients,” said Smithers, “Becoming a VAR is simply another way we can help our clients succeed with their development objectives.

The PTC agreement doesn’t limit Boston Engineering’s right to use other engineering tools. “We will continue to be non-biased and use the tools that are best suited to each client’s needs,” says Smithers. “We are experts in a number of other CAD and database applications, including open source solutions, and we will continue to use them.”

The Boston Engineering VAR program will be headed by Len Sparks, a program manager and mechanical engineer who has been with the company for seven years. The company is actively searching for additional sales and applications engineers to expand the team and channel program.

About Boston Engineering Corporation
As an outsourced engineering services firm, Boston Engineering (www.boston-engineering.com) offers turn-key electrical, mechanical, software, and controls engineering development services for clients in industries such as electronics, foodservice, homeland security, energy and environment, manufacturing and medical. Boston Engineering’s interdisciplinary systems approach follows a proven methodology that combines a focus on accelerated time to market with a Total System Responsibility™ (TSR) philosophy.

For more information, contact:
Shari Monnes
Public Relations for Boston Engineering
Phone: 978-251-0176

Boston Engineering contact:
Mark Smithers, Vice President, COO
781-466-8010 x 14
www.boston-engineering.com

Boston Engineering Corporation • 411 Waverley Oaks Road, Suite 114, Waltham, MA 02452 • 781-466-8010 • Fax: 781-466-8020 • www.boston-engineering.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:42 PM | Comments (0)

Size Matters: Long Time New Jersey Expanding Air Shaft Manufacturer Takes Advantage of Competitors Larger Size

Creatively implementing a streamlined manufacturing process and keeping a large stock of common shaft component parts on hand has allowed Convertech, Inc., to level the playing field with larger competitors who struggle to deliver their expanding air shaft products in less than sixteen weeks.

Wharton, New Jersey (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- Creatively implementing a streamlined manufacturing process and keeping a large stock of common shaft component parts on hand has allowed Convertech, Inc., to level the playing field with larger competitors who struggle to deliver their expanding air shaft products in less than sixteen weeks.

Although being in business for nearly 30 years, Convertech is still often seen as the "new kid on the block" in the expanding shaft industry. Competition with larger manufacturers has fostered a creative manufacturing environment at Convertech. "We've had to streamline our production process to ensure we can deliver our shafts fast without sacrificing quality. We keep many of our most common shaft parts in stock so we can custom manufacture our shafts faster than larger, less flexible companies", explained Larry Taitel, President of Convertech.

With the release of the newly re-designed differential shaft, which features a more complicated and innovative design than competing versions, Convertech is still able to deliver in less than half the time of its closest competitor. "We've put a lot of energy and skill into designing our new differential shaft," explained Larry Taitel. "It's able to load and unload materials more easily than any other type of shaft. The GlideLock clutched rollers automatically engage on each core independently so you get perfect tension every time. It's a very complicated design that actually ends up simplifying the entire process and allows converters to run multiple width cores on the same shaft. It takes more time to manufacture the differential shafts but we can still deliver it faster than our competitors can deliver a simple lug shaft."

Tom Cheatle of RTG films is another satisfied Convertech customer who echos Larry Taitels comments. "Not only can we run many different film widths across the shafts, but we can still maintain proper tensions - something that we were not able to consistently do prior on this slitter. Plus we are now able to run the slitter at higher speeds without any issues at all. To date, we are problem free as Convertech promised, plus the delivery date was outstanding.."

For over a quarter century Convertech has been the leader in exceptionally fast delivery time with superior engineering and quality built into every expanding shaft and chuck. With its competitors extended delivery time of as much as sixteen weeks Convertech's faster delivery time will always keep you up and running.

Convertech, Inc.: Delivered fast and built to last

Interview Contact:
Larry Taitel
Telephone: 973-328-1850
http://www.convertech.com

Convertech Inc.
353 Richard Mine Road
Wharton, NJ 07885
+01-973-328-1850 voice
+01-973-328-7256 fax
www.convertech.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)

Factory Net: e-mails on the Production Machine

When is manufacturing finally going online? Materials management systems, e-mail communications, customer relationship management – computer networking has revolutionised business processes in many areas. However, it is generally a different story when it comes to the production side. Yet it offers massive potential for industrial companies. Particularly in Germany, this opportunity needs to be seized quickly.

Erkrath, Germany (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- The intensive use of EDP systems has transformed the world of work in offices all over the world. Internet searches, online orders, and e-mail in particular, have long become an essential part of everyday life in the office. The computer is assisting in opening up opportunities for growth and savings which even optimistic experts would not have thought possible. The speed of many processes has also increased radically. Order today, deliver tomorrow – a principle which now applies equally to books and to complex components for the automotive industry.

In view of this, it is all the more astonishing that networking in most companies stops at precisely the point where the actual process of value-added begins in industry: when it comes to manufacturing. Let me give but one key ratio to support this observation: whereas you can find a computer in over 90 per cent of German offices, overall only 53 per cent of employees in industrial companies use a PC frequently. In other words, if you are working on the production side generally you will be working offline.

Admittedly, it feels as if you are being transported against your will back to the early 1990s as you argue the case that it is high time for manufacturing to be linked in to the internet and/or intranet. Back then, people with mobile phones who were seen using them in public were often greeted with a shake of the head from many of those passing by. It was practically the same when it came to the internet. What’s the point of e-mails? After all, you’ve still got the regular mail.

The rest is history. And it is simply a realistic forecast to suggest that, once manufacturing finally goes online, it will similarly develop a dynamic all of its own, with developments which to some extent cannot yet be predicted. It is set to develop in much the same way as the incredibly fast integration and spread of mobile telephony and the internet into all areas of our daily life.

Ultimately, every experience of practice in industry demonstrates more than clearly already that consistent networking, known as Factory Net, can enable production flows to be further accelerated, costs to be reduced and customer services optimised. With this, there is a particular critical advantage in the transparency of networked manufacturing. For example the works manager can use the network to monitor how many parts a machine has already manufactured and when the order in progress will be completed. This enables him to have an optimal assessment of existing production capacities, on the basis of real-time data. This in turn allows idle times and production bottlenecks to be minimised.

If all machines and production halls are linked with one another via a common database, then raw materials management can be optimised with ease. The supervisor can see from his workstation which machine still has how many raw parts available and when it will need resupplying. Even ordering processes can be automated, in a further stage.

Professional management of service intervals or repair work can be delivered more easily using Factory Net. Many machine manufacturers are already offering a remote maintenance option. The technician can then access the defective machine via the internet or using what is known as a P-to-P connection. Some problems can thus be resolved without a service team deployment. If the technician does need to come on call-out, he has the advantage of already being familiar with the problem and thus being prepared accordingly. Downtimes and maintenance costs can be reduced to a minimum in this way. In a world of increasingly strong competition, this is a critical advantage.

Factory Net also allows you to significantly simplify day-to-day processes which are essential for production management. A good example of this is recording the volumes produced. In many companies, the operator still writes down the number of parts produced on a slip of paper and hands this in to the production manager. He then has to enter the figures for all the machines laboriously onto the PC. Not only is this very time-consuming, but it can lead to inaccurate data if the handwriting is illegible or if there are keying errors – and the associated risks are difficult to guard against.

Using Factory Net, the volumes produced can be recorded on the machine entirely automatically, and summarised immediately into comprehensive overview tables to be used in production management. A system which has already proven itself in practice in terms of offering this kind of performance is the BRANKAMP eR5 ProductionMonitoring tool. It even enables key production data to be downloaded via a secure internet connection and a standard internet browser from anywhere in the world - for example, during an on-site customer presentation. But the customer also benefits in his day-to-day operations: capacities and delivery dates can be calculated in the shortest of times, and with a degree of accuracy not possible before. In the fierce competition for orders, that can be a critical advantage.

Unlike in the 1970s, when the notion of networked manufacturing first excited engineers, Factory Net is no longer just a theoretical concept which still needs to be realised. The applications and technologies are available today, and are already being used by innovative companies such as the forming and shaping company Vosseler Umformtechnik. As the pioneer and global market leader in ProcessMonitoring systems (sensor-based measurement systems for machines), BRANKAMP will be exhibiting Factory Net in use at the “wire” trade fair in Düsseldorf. The next step in “eVolution” will soon be upon us, and companies which react quickly will secure clear market advantages. To give an example: networking manufacturing will trigger a revolution and reconfiguration of operations – just as we have seen in office practices.

About the author: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Klaus Brankamp is the founder and Managing Director of BRANKAMP System Prozessautomation GmbH. The company, based in Erkrath near Düsseldorf, is a pioneer and global market leader in ProcessMonitoring systems. At manufacturing sites around the world, roughly 50,000 BRANKAMP applications are in use. AT EMO in Hanover, the company will exhibit Factory Net in operation at its stand. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Brankamp also lectures at RWTH Aachen on "Planning and development of new products,” and is the author of several specialist works.

By Prof. Dr.-Ing. Klaus Brankamp

Contact:
Dr.-Ing. K. Brankamp System Prozessautomation GmbH
Andreas Steinhauer
Max-Planck-Straße 9
40699 Erkrath
phone: +49-211-25 07 60
fax: +49- 211-20 84 02
Web: www.brankamp.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:40 PM | Comments (0)

Boston Engineering Expands Its “Complete Solutions” Offering by Becoming a PTC® Authorized Channel Partner

Boston Engineering becomes a VAR for PTC’s engineering software tools--Pro/ENGINEER Mechanical CAD and Windchill Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)--to offer clients better access to collaboration tools and product development services

Boston, MA (PRWEB) March 30, 2006 – In a move designed to help the company offer more complete solutions to its clients, Boston Engineering Corporation, a Waltham-based outsourced engineering services firm, today announced an agreement with PTC (Nasdaq: PMTC) to become an authorized reseller in the PTC Channel Advantage™ Program, for their Pro/ENGINEER® Mechanical CAD and Windchill® Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software tools.

Pro/ENGINEER is a 3D product design solution that helps companies develop detailed, intuitive and realistic digital product representations. Windchill is a product data management and project management solution that helps companies control product development data and enable internal and external product development collaboration. “At Boston Engineering, our distinction has always been to offer Total System Responsibility™ (TSR) approaches and thinking. Becoming a channel partner for PTC is taking this a step further,” said Mark Smithers, vice president and COO of Boston Engineering. “Not only can we help customers develop engineering products, we can provide installation and education for the tools that will help them get there.”

By becoming a value-added reseller (VAR), Boston Engineering is following a successful model used by PTC over the last few years. "Our engineering staff has years of experience using PTC tools to develop solutions for our clients,” said Smithers, “Becoming a VAR is simply another way we can help our clients succeed with their development objectives.

The PTC agreement doesn’t limit Boston Engineering’s right to use other engineering tools. “We will continue to be non-biased and use the tools that are best suited to each client’s needs,” says Smithers. “We are experts in a number of other CAD and database applications, including open source solutions, and we will continue to use them.”

The Boston Engineering VAR program will be headed by Len Sparks, a program manager and mechanical engineer who has been with the company for seven years. The company is actively searching for additional sales and applications engineers to expand the team and channel program.

About Boston Engineering Corporation
As an outsourced engineering services firm, Boston Engineering (www.boston-engineering.com) offers turn-key electrical, mechanical, software, and controls engineering development services for clients in industries such as electronics, foodservice, homeland security, energy and environment, manufacturing and medical. Boston Engineering’s interdisciplinary systems approach follows a proven methodology that combines a focus on accelerated time to market with a Total System Responsibility™ (TSR) philosophy.

For more information, contact:
Shari Monnes
Public Relations for Boston Engineering
978-251-0176

Boston Engineering contact:
Mark Smithers, Vice President, COO
781-466-8010 x 14
www.boston-engineering.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:38 PM | Comments (0)

March 30, 2006

Web 3.0 blossoms on P2P Enterprise Search, Networking and Sourcing Platform

Signs of Web 3.0 were visible with the availability of Samooha – Empowered Business Networks. The Integrated Peer-to-Peer Business Environment combines the power of desktop, the increase in processing power and memory on PCs, the maturity of broadband and the availability of Open Standard and Open Source based technologies in the Java domain to bring out an unique experience of business networking, enterprise search, global sourcing, CRM and ERM within and outside the enterprise enabling supply chain integration at a lower level of the business pyramid.

Bangalore, India (PRWEB) March 30, 2006 -- Zudha achieved a breakthrough in innovation with the first stable release of Samooha-S, a FREE Version of the Platform for Small Businesses to download and use.

The futuristic architecture of Samooha utilizes the plugin model similar to IDEs like Netbeans and Eclipse to enable the Samooha Business Cooperative Members to write their own plugins that fits well into the business needs of any verticals or serves the horizontal needs across the global enterprise scenario.

Samooha is a complimentary offering that boasts some of the most frequently used features in offerings such as Google, Alibaba, SAP, Oracle, Siebel, E-Bay and so on but with a very unique proposition of unified or integrated environment that runs as a Networked Desktop Application with a different approach to SaaS (Software as a Service) model.

The platform works on peer-to-peer overlay network based on query propagation and discovery mechanism and eliminates server dependency for data or query interpretation thereby taking advantage of edge nodes to support the distributed search mechanism. The network utilizes software routers run by Samooha managers for supporting the message routing. A caching and replication service will be offered in the next phase if the need arise for the users to avoid flooding of queries amongst the participating peers. The platform leverages Open Source peer-to-peer technologies and other network address translation techniques to achieve communication between participating business users.

Samooha platform offers database independence and uses Open Source Database, Object/Relational Persistence and supports multiple database usage.

According to Zudha, the managers of Samooha, the development road map includes enhancement of search and collaboration features, inclusion of voice and video capabilities, integration with standards like Rosettanet and US1GS standards and interoperability with the other enterprise offerings wherever possible.

Samooha-S (for small business) is available for FREE download and will not cover any Licence Fee for usage and can be offered by any independent IT consultant for a fee for training and support without having to be a formal cooperative member with no liability whatsoever for the Samooha Managers towards the end users of Samooha-S.

Samooha-M for mid-segment will be available through cooperative members. Samooha-L for higher end of the mid-segment will be available through partner network. Samooha-XL for enterprise needs with minor customization and private super-network with additional enterprise specific modules will be available directly from Samooha managers and strategic partners. Samooha-XXL for enterprise with major customization and large roll out will be available from Samooha managers in a span of 12-18 months.

According to Samooha managers (http://www.samooha.com) , the concept of Web 3.0 that is favoring Desktop users will truly be an empowerment for the employees of networked organizations and is a boon for managers and employers to aggregate the data within the business premises instead of allowing it to reside on several servers outside the organizations especially while networking for business by avoiding the replication of data on several sites as currently being witnessed.

Samooha-S is free of Spyware while it has a Small SignBoard for display of Sponsor Ads which in turn supports the running of router for Samooha-S Business Networks.

Small Business Owners can leverage their exposure to global contacts on Samooha networks and are encouraged to review and provide valuable comments to further prepare Samooha as their choice for business computing.

Zudha invites strategic alliances / partnership proposals from any region to leverage the opportunity to offer Samooha platform to businesses and be an early mover in gaining insight into the World's First Peer-to-Peer Business Platform.

For further details or queries on this Press Release please contact:
PR Officer
Zudha Information Technology Pvt Ltd
#227, 12th Cross
Wilson Garden
Bangalore – 560027
India
Tel : 91-80-41206607
Fax : 91-80-22214112
http://www.samooha.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:54 AM | Comments (0)

Numina Material Handling Assists CDW with Combined Automated Scanning and Labeling Technology to Streamline High-Volume, Full-Case Picking

Numina Group's One-Step Fulfillment System, including print-and-apply labeling coupled with advanced barcode recognition technology, creates major savings that automates application of packing slips and shipping labels to full-case cartons.

(PRWEB) March 30, 2006 -- CDW Corporation has a customer-centric philosophy of responding to their customers needs with a sense of urgency. As one of North America's leading providers of computer systems, technology and services for business, government, and education, that philosophy is demonstrated by a commitment to developing and applying the latest advancement in material handling automation at their Distribution Centers.

"Speed and accuracy are essential factors we use in evaluating distribution process improvements. Our mission is to optimize our operations to ensure quality, accurate, next day deliveries for customer orders," stated Doug Eckrote, senior vice president of operations.

Those objectives led the CDW team to improve on their advanced full-case picking process.

In the past, CDW warehouse workers picked by individual orders, using pre-printed labels and packing slips to label cartons. Using hand scanners, they would scan the product number to make sure that was the right item, and additionally scan the serial number. Because the location of the serial number bar code could be on any side of the carton, the picker had to search multiple sides of a carton before locating it. Capturing the information and then hand applying the shipper label and the packing slip could take up to 45 to 60 seconds.

To develop and integrate the technology needed for such an innovative solution, CDW turned to The Numina Group, a Burr Ridge IL-based system integrator and material handling automation provider.

Numina provided the Panther Industries Print-and-Apply Applicators, its RDS TRAK3 real-time control software, Vitronics Vision Scanning Tunnel and teamed with Matco Integrators who supplied the material handling conveyor belt and mechanical modification for the carton transportation and tracking to support the auto identification and labeling applications.

Today, after cartons flow onto the shipping conveyor they arrive at the Scan Tunnel, where the Vitronic Camera System scans all sides of the case, and captures the product ID and serial number barcodes. The barcode data is transmitted by the Numina RDS control system to the CDW warehouse management System. That system validates the case pick and transmits the labeling requirements and content for both the packing slip and shipper label required for each case. Immediately after the Scan Tunnel, an automated labeling system consisting of dual Panther Industries print-and-apply label applicators are used to apply a combination packing slip and shipping label to order shipments.

"If an extra carton or a picking error occurs the data from the Scan Tunnel sent to the warehouse management system is used to check and validate all case picks match the currently active orders," explains Numina president Dan Hanrahan. "If the case is a miss pick or a no-read condition occurs the case will not be labeled and will be diverted as a 'not assigned pick' to an inspection-exception station for human disposition."

CDW’s Eckrote summarized the substantial improvements in material handling automation: "Essentially, we've reduced the pick labor by approximately 60 percent on full-case items," he says. "This has proven to be the right technology to increase throughput at our operations while improving productivity and enhancing accuracy."

For more information:
Dan Hanrahan
Numina Group
60 Shore Drive,
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Phone: (630) 323-0110
Web site: www.numinagroup.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:54 AM | Comments (0)

DBA Software Announces Version 3 for Small Manufacturers

Manufacturing software includes new MRP & scheduling tools.

San Luis Obispo, CA (PRWEB) March 30, 2006 –- DBA Software Inc., a leading provider of manufacturing solutions for small business, has released version 3 of its flagship product, DBA Manufacturing Next-Generation. A free single-user version of the software can be downloaded from DBA’s website (www.dbamanufacturing.com).

“Version 3 is a significant milestone in the evolution of our small business manufacturing solution,” said Michael Hart, President of DBA Software. “With our new set of simplified MRP and scheduling tools, small companies finally have a practical production planning alternative to over-complicated ERP systems designed for larger enterprises.”

The new MRP and scheduling tools in version 3 include an MRP settings screen with usage, production, and delivery inquiries, a delivery date estimator, planned job generation directly from sales orders for make-to-order items, dynamic job scheduling within MRP, purchase order generation directly from jobs, work center scheduling with daily dispatch lists, and a new job scheduling screen for re-scheduling existing jobs.

“Most of our MRP and scheduling screens are done in a spreadsheet style so that there is complete transparency of information with the ability to trace all the numbers,” continued Hart. “This is true to our “common sense” manufacturing philosophy, which is based on keeping things simple and providing a role for human judgment rather than trusting the software to make all the decisions.”

Also new in version 3 is a manufacturers table with suppliers cross-reference and the ability to control approved manufacturers at the item or BOM component level. Manufacturers flow through to pick lists, job travelers, and purchase orders.

DBA Manufacturing Next-Generation is an all-purpose solution that includes integrated accounting and can also be used as a stand-alone manufacturing system. DBA is designed for discrete, batch process, make to order, and make to stock environments.

About DBA Software Inc
DBA Software, Inc., a privately held company, has been a leading provider of manufacturing software to small businesses since 1992. The company’s internet-based sales and support model enables it to provide a complete manufacturing and accounting solution for a fraction of the price and ongoing cost of other systems. A free single-user version of DBA Manufacturing Next-Generation can be downloaded from the company’s website (www.dbamanufacturing.com).

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:53 AM | Comments (0)

Atrium Expanding Deployment of BuyDesign® Software based on Success in Washington

Atrium is now expanding deployment of TDCI’s BuyDesign® sales and configuration solution to Atrium’s HR Windows, Texas, and California regions based on the success of the system in Atrium’s Washington region. Atrium is using BuyDesign to offer web-based online quoting, ordering, and status inquiry services to the company’s extensive regional customer networks.

Columbus, OH (PRWEB) March 31, 2006 -- TDCI Inc. (TDCI), a leading enterprise software solution provider, today announced that Atrium Companies, Inc. (Atrium), the largest manufacturer of vinyl and aluminum windows and patio doors in North America, is now expanding deployment of TDCI’s BuyDesign® sales and configuration solution to Atrium’s HR Windows, Texas, and California regions based on the success of the system in Atrium’s Washington region. Atrium is using BuyDesign to offer web-based online quoting, ordering, and status inquiry services to the company’s extensive regional customer networks.

“The primary reason we selected the BuyDesign solution was because of its configuration capabilities,” states Roger Santone, Atrium VP of Information Technology. “The majority of our products can be configured for customer-specified dimensions and features, and BuyDesign enables us to make that capability available online to our customers 24x7. In addition, the fact that it can be integrated with different back-end manufacturing systems provides us the flexibility to deliver a common solution to our customers regardless of the internal system. Based on our success with BuyDesign in Washington, we are now accelerating deployment to additional areas of the country.”

Atrium Washington has been live with BuyDesign since December following a pilot period with selected dealers. During that period, feedback was collected and improvements made to refine the system’s ease-of-use. Atrium sales representatives have now been actively introducing the new system to dealers since the first of the year. At the end of February, over 25% of Atrium Washington’s dealer based was already using the system, with the number of quotes and orders increasing steadily every week. Atrium Washington customers include dealers and lumberyards that support a number of large homebuilders as well as independent contractors and the entire remodeling market.

“Our customers are very enthusiastic about the capabilities we’ve introduced using BuyDesign,” says Peter Venerdi, Atrium VP - Operations, Western Region. “They can now configure products, generate quotes, and place orders on their own any time of the day. That saves them a lot of time and effort while providing them with much greater flexibility.”

“Our goal is to be easier to do business with than anyone else,” adds Venerdi. “BuyDesign has enabled us to leapfrog our competitors in that respect. By offering these capabilities online, we are able to provide consistently accurate, up-to-date product and price information, where most other window manufacturers send out CDs that are essentially out of date as soon as they arrive. That means their customers don’t know for sure if their product configurations and prices are valid until after they place the order by fax or phone. That adds a lot of effort that doesn’t exist with the online approach. And from our point of view, there’s a lot less administration required as compared with publishing and updating CDs.”

“Our sales people are finding that dealer personnel are comfortable with the system after just 30 or so minutes of training,” Adds Venerdi. “In fact quite a few are just picking it up and using it effectively on their own without any training at all.”

About Atrium
With headquarters in Dallas, Texas, and 80 manufacturing and distribution centers located in 22 states, Atrium is the largest manufacturer of residential vinyl and aluminum windows and patio doors in North America. Atrium serves the new construction and repair and remodeling markets with a portfolio of products marketed under the Atrium® brand name and others. Atrium’s product lines are offered in a broad range of designs and price points. The company utilizes a multi-channel distribution network that makes it possible to provide quality, nationwide service to the greatest number of end-users. Atrium customers include the industry’s leading builders, retailers, homecenters, lumberyards, contractors, designers, and architects.
About TDCI and BuyDesign

TDCI is an enterprise solution provider that specializes in helping manufacturers and their distributors streamline the buying process for customized products. TDCI’s BuyDesign® software is a comprehensive sales and configuration solution developed to help companies increase sales by becoming ‘easy to do business with’ and improve profitability by reducing order processing time, cost, and errors. BuyDesign provides modular components for guided product selection and configuration, product visualization, quoting and ordering, drawing generation, and status inquiry. It also includes applications for front-end specification capture from within popular design products such as AutoCAD and others. For more information about TDCI and BuyDesign, visit http://www.tdci.com/

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:52 AM | Comments (0)

Duquesa Marketing, Inc. Appointed Managing Consultant for Luxury Pool Lounge Product

Comfort Engineered ZenRay™ to be designed, branded and licensed by international marketing consulting firm.

Fort Thomas, KY (PRWEB) March 30, 2006 -- Cayman Island based ZenRay™ Design today announced the appointment of Duquesa Marketing to act as managing consultants on all aspects of their advanced ergonomically designed pool chaise lounge accessory.

“I interviewed numerous consultants, in Europe and the United States”, said Udo Baumgardner, owner/inventor of the ZenRay™. “Geoff Ficke gave me the most comprehensive proposal, turn-key logistics and a real feeling of confidence. His experience is obvious and his relationships very wide”.

The ZenRay™ is an accessory attachment that can be universally attached to any pool or yard lounge chair. The ZenRay™ has portability and several unique storage features. However, the patented units most advanced product benefit is the ergonomically engineered support for head, neck and shoulders. The light-weight unit enables the user to read, nap or chat with full support and eliminates head roll and pressure on the neck area.

“Everyone has experienced dozing off at the pool, or on a cruise, or just reading in the backyard. After a few minutes the head lurches, the neck and shoulder are in pain and you uncomfortably, and insecurely try to doze back off”, said Nancy Ficke, General Manager of Duquesa Marketing, Inc. “One use of the ZenRay™ and people will never give it up. It is cool looking and really designed with advanced comfort in mind. We plan a campaign to License the ZenRay after completion of design and development”.

Duquesa Marketing, Inc. is a comprehensive consumer product consulting firm. The firm has managed dozens of projects, in numerous countries, in all areas of sales, marketing, product development and funding.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:51 AM | Comments (0)

March 29, 2006

Spiralock Self Locking Threaded Fasteners Ensure Mission Safety for Spacecraft Orbiting Saturn’s Largest Moon

Unique thread locking design provides fail-safe fastening performance for the vacuum-sealed cavities of the Huygens probe, supporting new discoveries.

(PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- A recent issue of Nature Magazine reports that the European Space Agency’s Huygens probe validated a new model of the evolution of Titan, Saturn’s largest moon. The Huygens probe revealed Titan’s methane supply might be locked away in a kind of methane-rich ice, potentially originating underground. For atmospheric measurement of Saturn and Titan, NASA used Spiralock self locking threaded fasteners to resist vibration and temperature-induced thread loosening on mass spectrometer instrumentation.

While your product may not travel the equivalent of 450,000 round trips between Los Angeles and New York City--the distance the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft has traveled in exploration of Saturn and its moons--it must function in your marketplace with minimal failure, since your brand’s reputation depend on its reliability. Yet your product’s underlying reliability depends on how well it’s physically held together by nuts and bolts, which may loosen or fail under shock, vibration, or extreme temperature.

For fail-safe atmospheric measurement of Saturn and Titan from the Huygens probe, several hundred bolts and lock nuts have had to keep vacuum-tight sealed cavities secure with no thread loosening or stripping, despite shock, vibration, and temperature extremes including rocket launch, atmospheric re-entry, and the sub-zero chill of space.

“To survive the vibration and high temperatures of launch, we required the most reliable locking engagement thread,” said Dan Harpold, a NASA scientist who worked on the project. “Screws and lock nuts had to remain tight without opportunity for re-tightening. With conventional threading, however, screws and lock nuts loosened up and backed out under testing.”

In an effort to satisfy NASA’s and the European Space Agency’s stringent reliability requirements, unique self locking threaded fasteners were used. With no ability to tighten or replace loose or stripped fasteners after launch, the chosen thread locking form, by Madison Heights, Mich.-based Spiralock Corp., would have to hold until mission completion.

What makes the Spiralock self locking threaded fasteners unique is a 30º “wedge” ramp cut at the root of the female thread. Under clamp load, the crests of the threads on any standard male bolt are drawn tightly against the wedge ramp. This not only eliminates sideways motion that causes vibrational loosening but also distributes the threaded joint’s load throughout all engaged threads, a claim supported by research conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

NASA conducted a number of tests including a series of about twelve high-temperature “bake outs,” where screws and their matching internal thread forms were heated from room temperature to 300° C to simulate temperature-induced thread loosening.

“The Spiralock self locking threaded fasteners retained a tight seal at 300° C,” says Harpold. “Once torqued down properly, the screws stayed put in the threads, which helped us meet our flight schedule. To date, not one has come loose that I’m aware of.”

In other studies, the Spiralock thread locking form’s load percentage on the first engaged thread was shown significantly lower than standard thread forms, which further reduces possible bolt failure and improves product performance. The self locking threaded fasteners also allows for both thermal expansion and contraction without slippage, an important consideration for extreme conditions.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:27 AM | Comments (0)

Custom Plastic Injection Molding and Custom Rubber Molding Under One Roof

Over molding of rubber on plastic a growing trend in the industry.

(PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- Today’s competitive market demands are the driving force behind the technological advancements and process improvements required to gain product advantage. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the custom plastic injection molding and rubber injection molding industries, where two distinct processes must converge in the creation of products that involve rubber over moldings over plastic substrates.

Medical and dental devices, electronic connectors, hand tools and a variety of consumer products are increasingly produced utilizing rubber over molding on plastic -- primarily to improve the ergonomics of the final product. However, there are additional compelling drivers that are fueling the estimated 15% growth in demand for such products every year. Most notably, such finished goods often command higher market prices.

Unfortunately, higher market prices mean significantly less if manufacturing costs also rise. Yet this is often the case as such parts typically involve a myriad of players -- a plastic injection molding company, a rubber molding supplier that produces the over molding, and yet another party for assembly. This process is unwieldy and also adds significant costs from increased shipping and logistics, delays in receipt of parts from one or more sources, parts that fit poorly together, and no single source of responsibility.

In an attempt to avoid this scenario, product manufacturers are instead turning to the rare breed of injection molder that can handle custom plastic injection molding along with custom rubber molding -- along with assembly -- under one roof. Of the approximately 700 custom injection molding companies in the U.S., only a handful can lay claim to the required capabilities and expertise.

“It is an obvious advantage to have one supplier responsible for all aspects of product delivery,” says Wil Thomas, senior project engineer for R&D at Nobel Biocare, a world leader in dental solutions including crown, bridge and implant products.

Nobel Biocare selected Applied Tech Products Engineered Rubber and Plastics Group (ATPERPG) as a single plastic/rubber source. ATPERPG is a global manufacturing company that provides product design, prototyping, tool design and production, custom plastic injection molding, rubber injection molding, finishing/assembly, packaging and distribution.

ATPERPG designed a container for Nobel Biocare that holds dental implants using a custom plastic injection molding process with a rubber injection molding overlay. Everything from design through assembly of the finished product was accomplished at ATP’s facility in Tempe, Arizona. As a result, Nobel Biocare was able to keep costs down.

Injection molders can also approximate rubber over molding by utilizing thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), also known as “plastic rubber.” ATPERPG also provides this service, making it one of a very few molders that provide expertise in rubber (including silicone), TPEs and engineered thermoplastic resins. As such, the company can guide product designers more objectively in the area of material selection. This decision typically is made through an analysis of the product’s purpose and the preferences of the end use customer.

“Our industrial engineers chose synthetic rubber rather than TPE as it had a better feel,” explains Thomas.

According to Thomas, Nobel Biocare has experienced little or no quality problems related to the custom rubber molding or custom plastic injection molding processes. “ATP helped us develop something that really differentiated us from our competitors,” adds Thomas.

AT P Engineered Rubber & Plastics Group
Mike Torti
Phone: (610) 688-2200
Fax: (610) 688-1534
http://www.atperpg.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:26 AM | Comments (0)

Jorge Jones Joins SpectraSensors to Establish International Distribution Channels

New Director of International Sales joins SpectraSensors, the industry leader of on-line tunable diode laser analyzer solutions.

(PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- As part of SpectraSensors’ strategic plan to aggressively grow into the international marketplace, Jorge Jones has joined the company in the new role of Director of International Sales with a primary focus on establishing international distribution channels. This move is an important step for SpectraSensors to continue its leading role of on-line tunable diode laser analyzer solutions.

SpectraSensors technology and products for “on-line” moisture measurement have enjoyed excellent acceptance in the United States natural gas industry. Early in 2006 the Company has successfully launched new moisture measurement applications for the Petrochemical, Chemical, Semi-Conductor, and other process industries. International expansion is one of the top strategic initiatives at SpectraSensors for 2006.

George Balogh, SpectraSensors CEO said, “Jorge’s presence is perfectly timed. We are positioned to expand in 2006, and to successfully bring our products to the rest of the world. Jorge Jones’ connections and understanding of international markets, and his track record for growth in analytical instrument business will serve to round out SpectraSensors’ sales force.”

Jorge Jones received an MBA degree from Rice University, Houston Texas, and a Mechanical Engineering degree from Universidad Nacional, Bogotá, Colombia and has 17 years of business experience in industrial markets. Jones’ experience includes a diverse blend of general management and business development roles in entrepreneurial start up businesses as well as large corporations. Jones’ most recent tenure at Emerson Process Management included Directorial and General Management roles for International operations.

Jorge Jones is stationed in Houston Texas, reporting to the VP of Sales, Dale Langham, and can be contacted at (1)-281-379-4805.

SpectraSensors, Inc. headquartered in San Dimas, California, was incorporated in 1999, as a technology spin-off of the NASA/Caltech Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The company is a leading manufacturer of optically based gas sensors for the industrial process and environmental monitoring markets. Typical applications include natural gas sensors to measure moisture and carbon dioxide, process analytical sensors for on-line moisture monitoring in olefins and bulk gases, impurities in drinking water, and airborne water vapor measurements from commercial aircraft for the U.S. and International Weather Services.

For More Information Contact:
George M. Balogh, CEO
Tel: (909) 542-0394 x237
Fax: 909-542-0402
SpectraSensors, Inc.
972 North Amelia Avenue
San Dimas, CA 91773
www.spectrasensors.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:25 AM | Comments (0)

Leading PA System Manufacturer Announces Personnel Advancements

Anchor Audio, a leading manufacturer of portable public address systems, promotes from within two key personnel

Torrance, Calif. (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- Anchor Audio, Inc., an industry leader in the portable PA system manufacturing sector for over 25 years, announces the promotion of key individuals to improve operations and better serve their rapidly expanding customer base.

Michael Kim was promoted to VP of Operations from Director of Manufacturing. Kim has over nine years of experience in manufacturing, including employment with NASA on a Phase Two Project at the Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, OH.

Kim has been with Anchor Audio, Inc. for the past two years and has implemented his experience in lean manufacturing to ensure the profitable and efficient manufacturing of the company’s entire portable public address system line. Kim is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine, with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Additionally, Robert Rutten was promoted to European Sales Manager. Rutten has been Anchor Audio’s Holland based distributor for over 20 years. He brings a wealth of experience to the European market. With the goal of expanded sales in the portable public address system market, Anchor Audio will also be adding their successful wireless intercom system to their available product lineup in Europe.

Anchor Audio manufactures its portable wireless intercom system and PA system products in its own factory in Torrance, California. Thousands of satisfied customers find that Anchor’s easy to use PA system produces highly intelligible sound. Prestigious users of the Anchor Audio portable PA system and wireless intercom system include the White House, British Parliament, the Hague, all branches of the U.S. military, the Swiss Army, renowned universities, major resort hotels including the Hotel D’Arts, national and regional parks, and a diverse group of municipal users including parks, police departments, and city administrators.

Whether you are a classroom teacher, coach, theater director, church minister, city mayor or emergency crowd control officer, Anchor makes a portable public address system with your needs in mind.

Anchor’s portable public address systems are battery or AC powered, capable of covering crowds up to 5,000 – indoor or out, and are built for users with no technical knowledge. versatile portable public address systems like this can be used for giving speeches in auditoriums, making sports announcements in gyms, giving instructions to the marching band on the athletic field, or putting on a play in a small theater.

Anchor Audio manufacturers its portable PA system using a “total quality” concept. All of Anchor Audio’s products are backed by a six-year warranty, the longest offered in the industry. Through strict controls on its in-house speaker manufacturing, six quality control tests on 100% of products, and maintenance of large inventory for immediate shipment, Anchor Audio has earned its reputation for quality among a loyal customer base including: the U.S. military, the White House, the FBI, numerous police departments throughout the country, and literally thousands of schools, universities, and academic institutions.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:24 AM | Comments (0)

Equipment Lease Funding Sources & Service Providers Prepare to Exhibit at National Lessors Showcase

A limited number of exhibitor opportunities remain available on a first come basis.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- This August the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead hotel in Atlanta, GA will play host to an exclusive audience of equipment leasing executives seeking to form strategic alliances with lease funding, syndication and administrative resources. A limited number of exhibitor opportunities remain available on a first come basis.

Unlike traditional industry events, the Annual Lessor Resources Showcase uses a booth-free format to introduce lessor resources enhancing:

• Business Origination Channels
• Credit & Documentation
• Funding, Syndication & Securitization
• Asset Management
• Portfolio Servicing
• IT Solutions

Alternating exhibitor representatives are scheduled to deliver informative presentations describing their companies, products and services in the General Session maximizing exposure to every leasing executive in attendance. Following exhibitor presentations, everyone moves into the Networking Suite, where refreshments in an upscale business club-like atmosphere provide attendees unprecedented access to exhibitor representatives and their promotional materials.

John Semon, Lessors Network CEO comments, “Industry professionals participate in our events for rich insights and easy access to innovative resources. We help them understand how to gain sustainable competitive advantages, how to align strategy with business objectives, and how to implement best practices.

For the better part of two days, we focus our attention on exhibitors, sponsors and industry leaders speaking on topical subjects. Then on the final day the Open Mic forum gets everyone excited.”

On the last day, an Open Mic forum asks every registered attendee to step to the microphone and deliver a two minute overview of their company, providing a unique opportunity to identify strategic market targets that traditionally have gone unnoticed. Lease originators, recognizing a captive audience of funding resources in the room, use the Open Mic forum to pitch transactions and portfolios available for immediate funding/syndication.

Traditionally an early sell out, this annual networking event has attracted the “A-List” from the equipment leasing and finance markets including: Bank of America, Caterpillar Financial Services Corp., Chase Equipment Leasing, CIT, Citigroup, Inc., Daimler Chrysler, De Lage Landen, Decision Systems, Inc., Dell Financial Services, Deutsche Financial Services, Diligenz, Inc., ePlus Group, Inc., Experian, Fair, Isaac and Company, Fitch Ratings, GATX Capital, GE Capital, GMAC Commercial Finance, IBM Global Financing, Information Leasing Corp., International Decision Systems, John Deere Credit, Key Equipment Finance Group, KPMG Consulting LLC, Oracle Credit Corporation, Pitney Bowes Financial Services, RVI Group, SAP America, Siemens Financial Services, Textron Financial Corporation, Toyota Financial Services, UCC Direct Services, US Bancorp, Wachovia Leasing & Equipment Finance and Wells Fargo Equipment Finance.

Early “Discounted” Attendee Registration is now available. Additional information about the Annual Lessor Resources Showcase can be viewed from www.lessors.com.

About the Lessors Network

From www.Lessors.com, the ultimate Internet address for Lessors, the Lessors Network facilitates vertical market networking for companies, products and services targeting the equipment leasing and finance markets.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:24 AM | Comments (0)

Home Sensor-controller Nodes Market to Grow 80% Each Year Between now and 2010 in the U.S., Predicts Comprehensive New Study of Home Automation Applications and Markets

West Technology Research Solutions (WTRS) announced the publication of a new report that predicts a Total Addressable Market (TAM) globally of 5.3 billion units for Electronic Home Improvement and Automation products by 2010.

Mtn.View, CA (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- West Technology Research Solutions new Total Addressable Market Report details the predicted growth and demand in the major home applications for sensors and automated controls. The use of embedded smart sensors and controllers will grow as more manufacturers and home builders increasingly incorporate “smart” capabilities into the design of everyday items.

The growth potential in home automation has long been recognized in generalized statements, but now WTRS has released a major new analysis of the Total Addressable Market for electronic home improvement and automation applications. The report identifies and describes an extensive list of applications and market drivers as well as detailed forecasts and substantive data that is of immediate interest to a wide variety of manufacturers, homebuilders, designers and architects.

A sample of the findings includes these two areas:
1) The market for household safety sensors will rejuvenate the overall safety market, with the market for smoke and fire detectors growing to more than 96 million by 2010 in the US alone. Adoption of sensors into household safety equipment devices should lead to a total installed market in the US of 579 million nodes. Integral are the integration of sensors into mold detection, earthquake sensors, and child safety products.
2) In the US, the market for residential lighting controllers will grow to more than 1,272 million installed nodes by 2010. Controllers for residential lighting offer large revenue opportunities as integrated control over energy and lighting systems enables a higher level of energy conservation and cost savings.
The Report examines many other application areas in great detail.

The WTRS Total Addressable Market Report is a new category of market report, in that it encompasses virtually all aspects of the home automation application arena and defines current usage, forecasts growth by both technology and acceptance, and identifies market opportunities for suppliers who wish to participate in this coming boom.

Questions answered by this groundbreaking new TAM Report include:
What are the precise applications for sensor and control in the home?
Who are some of the end product manufacturers?
How do the end product manufacturers sell their products?
What are the key functions required by each application?
In which rooms of the home are the products found?
What is the addressable market for sensors and control nodes in a given application over the next ten years?
What are the technologies that can be used and how do they compare.

About WTRS: West Technology Research Solutions is an independent market research and consulting company focused solely on emerging wireless technologies since 1995. A true market leader in accurate forecasting, WTRS uses proprietary macroeconomic techniques as well as traditional research modalities.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:22 AM | Comments (0)

Whitley Manufacturing Honored at Modular Building Institute Convention In Orlando

Whitley Manufacturing was honored with eight awards, including one first place finish, at the recent Modular Building Institute convention in Orlando, Florida.

South Whitley, IN (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) March 29, 2006 -- Whitley Manufacturing, nationally headquartered in South Whitley, Indiana, was honored with eight awards, including one first place finish, at the recent Modular Building Institute convention in Orlando, Florida. Whitley, which operates factories in South Whitley and Rochester, Indiana, as well as Seattle, Washington, was nominated in eleven categories, winning in eight.

“We are proud to be recognized again at MBI,” according to Simon Dragan, company president. “We pride ourselves on listening carefully to the goals of our customers, on building innovative structures, on excellent customer service and on baking our product with quality service and a thorough warranty. We are glad our peers recognized our commitment to quality.”

Whitley manufactures custom buildings for education, health care, the military, commerce and science, ranging from classrooms, schools, clinics, dormitories, press boxes and offices, to MRI clinics, dialysis centers, airport terminals and bank buildings. The company has been operating since 1945, forming first to provide housing for returning veterans of World War Two. It transitioned to a manufacturer of commercial modular structures in 1971 and has consistently won numerous awards at MBI conventions. Whitley, which is privately held and locally operated, will reach a milestone in the coming weeks when it builds its 35,000th unit. Whitley employs 300 people nationwide. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.whitleyman.com.

The Modular Building Institute is the trade association formed of builders, suppliers and distributors that oversees the development and improvement of modular construction worldwide.

Contact:
Jim Sack
260-723-5131
www.whitleyman.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:21 AM | Comments (0)

Simple Design, Range of Options Make Isotech's New Ball Splines a Fit for Many Linear Motion Applications

Isotech Inc., a supplier of linear motion products, today announced the offering a new line of ball splines. The new line is available in a wide range of configurations, making it applicable to many linear motion systems. In addition the ball splines are designed to be lightweight, yet durable, and feature a unique design that puts four spline grooves on the circumference of the spline shaft to eliminate backlash.

HORSHAM, Pa (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- Isotech Inc., a supplier of precision linear motion products, today announced the company is now offering a new line of ball splines designed to save space, lower design complexity and increase the efficiency of linear motion applications.

"The new line of ball spline products is available in a wide variety of configurations," said Joe Casillo president of Isotech. "This range of options allows for use of our ball splines in a diverse range of linear motion applications."

Applications include numerous pick and place uses found in major biotech, medical and medical instrument OEM's. More specific applications include tool changers, milling machines, and varieties of processing equipment from stamping and machining, to dispensing equipment and conveyor systems.

In total, Isotech ball splines are available in 18 different shaft diameters ranging from four millimeters to 120 millimeters, and seven nut types including rotary spline, cylindrical, flange and block styles.

Included in the new ball spline offerings is a rotary ball spline. Each rotary ball spline nut includes both spline and rotational elements. A single body construction reduces the number of parts, lowering chances of installation errors and component failure.

In addition, Isotech's ball splines use a round shaft with raceway grooves, allowing the product to easily be machined to custom specifications, while the rotary-type ball splines use cross roller elements and a four-row ball circuit structure to provide rigidity, yet remain compact and lightweight. Each Isotech ball spline is manufactured to ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 standards.

"The unique design of our ball splines puts four spline grooves on the circumference of the spline shaft, promoting torque equally in either direction," said Casillo. "This also allows ease of accurate preload and can provide zero backlash."

Isotech has many different configurations of ball splines in stock and ready for shipment. Custom configurations are usually available to ship within three weeks. Call Isotech at 215-957-5999 or visit www.isotechinc.com for more information or assistance.

About Isotech Inc.
Isotech Inc., specializes in linear motion control products and is a manufacturer's representative and distributor of proprietary mechanical and electromechanical products including ball and crossed roller slides and tables, linear bushings and shafting, pneumatic, micrometer and motorized tables, linear actuators, air cylinders, dashpots/actuators, noise control materials, vibration mounts and isolators, laser marking systems and automation software training.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:20 AM | Comments (0)

Industry2Industry.com Rolls Out Online Calculator Program

In an additional effort to support the industrial community Industry2Industry has rolled out a new online calculator program and is looking to add to the new calculator section with more industry-specific calculators.

Raymond, NH (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- Industry2Industry.com, an industry-specific search engine, accepts free listings from companies that offer industrial goods and services that would be purchased by industrial purchasing executives. Industry2Industry.com is unique because associations, other directories, and sites that do not sell directly to the industrial buyer are not included in their search results.

“We’re a major search engine with an industrial filter that only serves up company web sites that offer the appropriate commodity items,” explains Mary Wells, managing editor of Industry2Industry. “Site owners that fit this description are encouraged to submit their sites. Site submissions that do not fit our criteria are not accepted.”

In an additional effort to support the industrial community Industry2Industry has rolled out a new online calculator program and is looking to add to the new calculator section with more industry-specific calculators. The section currently boasts three calculators: Calculating BTU for process liquid chillers, Sizing Actuators for Damper Applications, and Temperature Conversion. Visitors can request a calculator that they would find useful by simply completing the online calculator request form. There is no charge for requesting a specific calculator.

Companies who would like to sponsor a calculator can do so by completing the same calculator request form and entering the additional information required. A company sponsoring a calculator receives a link to their website and a brief description of their company’s offerings. The fee to sponsor a calculator is a one-time $100U.S. – the sponsorship is then for the life of the calculator page.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:19 AM | Comments (0)

Control Methods, Inc. and Eagle Thread Verifier, LLC Form Marketing Alliance

Sterling Heights, Mich.-based Eagle Thread Verifier, LLC, makers of an automated thread gauge system, announced today the company has formed a joint marketing alliance with Control Methods, Inc. (CMI) of Clinton Township, Mich.

Sterling Heights, MI (PRWEB) March 29, 2006 -- Sterling Heights, Mich.-based Eagle Thread Verifier, LLC, makers of an automated thread gauge system, announced today the company has formed a joint marketing alliance with Control Methods, Inc. (CMI) of Clinton Township, Mich. CMI specializes in designing and building automation controls, vision and inspection systems.

The Eagle Thread Verifier (ETV) is a unique thread gauge that automatically prevents improperly tapped parts from reaching final assembly, offering manufacturers a reliable method of eliminating expensive rework, and saving production time and cost.

ETV teamed up with CMI in 2005 to develop an automation control system for the thread verification system. With this partnership, Eagle Thread Verifier is able to offer manufacturers a turnkey solution that reliably and consistently inspects threaded holes in seconds, adding no time to existing production cycles. In addition to the engineering alliance, CMI will be representing Eagle Thread Verifier out in the field for new sales opportunities.

“We are pleased to have formed this marketing alliance with ETV,” stated CMI sales and applications manager, John Demeniuk. “The Eagle Thread Verifier is a foolproof way to eliminate thread problems in the manufacturing cycle. Our automotive clients demand this type of advancement in their production activities.”

Manufacturers interested in receiving product specifications for the Eagle Thread Verifier should contact ETV at (586) 764-8218 or CMI at (586) 792-2008.

About Eagle Thread Verifier, LLC
Eagle Thread Verifier is a patented automatic thread gauge that catches 99% of all thread problems in any manufacturing process. ETV is designed to operate in the rigorous production environment of coolant and chips, preventing improperly tapped parts from reaching final assembly. Over 50 million thread testing cycles have been conducted by the ETV system in manufacturing facilities throughout the U.S. The company’s headquarters are located in Sterling Heights, Michigan. For more information, visit www.eaglethreadverifier.com or call (586) 764-8218.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:18 AM | Comments (0)

March 28, 2006

TouchTrends - Turnkey Marketing Combining Variable Print Direct Mail, Opt-In Marketing, and the Web

TouchTrends, the new turn-key, all-inclusive marketing system that combines the power of variable data printing direct mail, unique URLs with personalized web pages, permission based marketing, real time email alerts, and detailed reporting, recorded record success in February.

Delray Beach, FL (PRWEB) March 27, 2006 -- Co-founders James Michelson and John Fager of JFM Concepts, a full service direct marketing firm, announced the successful launch of their new flagship product TouchTrends.

“TouchTrends is a proprietary marketing methodology and technology which combines direct mail, unique URLs, personalized web pages, real time email alerts, opt-in marketing, and detailed reporting in a way that no other offering can match,” announced James Michelson at a marketing seminar last week. John Fager added, “The front end analysis of our client’s database, the selection of the right prospects, and the ability to customize both print and web design for each market segment make TouchTrends a powerful marketing tool. Multiple mailings are critical for building brand awareness, entering the sales cycle at the right time, capturing current sales opportunities, and increasing market share. Mailing on an ongoing basis increases the chances that your message will be in front of the customer when the time is right.”

TouchTrends is an all-inclusive marketing system that is proven to increase response rates and drive sales by not only getting the right message to the right customer at the right time, but also by capturing “soft leads” for each prospect that visits the supporting website. John Fager notes, “The ability to track the online behavior of individual prospective customers tells us who was interested and explored the offer, but did not buy. Additionally, our online application is a perfect platform for permission based marketing. The customer can easily opt-in as their information is automatically pre-populated to the web form.”

A TouchTrends campaign targets top prospects with a series of full-color direct mail communications that drive respondents to a personalized web page. A unique web page address is printed for each recipient so prospects that open the website can be identified even if they do not call or submit a form. Respondents are identified instantly so you can follow-up with a more information, even while the prospect is still on the site.

About JFM Concepts:
JFM Concepts is a full service direct marketing firm that provides all the components of highly successful direct mail campaigns. In-house experts and carefully vetted partners execute all aspects of the campaign including concept, copy, design, art, web development, printing, mailing and reporting.

About James Michelson:
James D. Michelson is an honor graduate of the George Washington University and a former Naval Officer with more than 15 years of executive marketing and sales experience. Upon leaving active duty, he earned a Masters degree in Business Administration from Jacksonville University. James has held key sales and marketing positions at the executive level for both Fortune 15 and small firms in a variety of industries. His extensive experience in developing sales and marketing campaigns for companies both with and without direct sales forces has produced explosive and profitable growth. James is also an adjunct professor of business, teaching students how to create world class marketing and sales campaigns in both theoretical and practical ways.

About John Fager:
Having worked as both the marketing analyst and web producer for two Fortune 500 Fastest-Growing companies, John D. Fager has an extensive background in direct mail. Specializing in customer-centric strategies and marketing, John is among the best in the profession at creating and implementing high response campaigns. John is an expert SQL programmer and has extensive experience working with large, disparate, enterprise-level data sets. Focusing on which customer to market, he has segmented, compiled, and analyzed more than 500 direct mail campaigns during the last twelve months alone. John has a degree in Psychology from the University of Colorado and has used his expertise to create a tested methodology for highly personalized and demographically-targeted mail campaigns.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:56 AM | Comments (0)

Drag and Drop Live Process Data into Excel With OPC DataHub

Excel users can now drag and drop live data from their production systems directly into a spreadsheet for real-time analysis and dynamic reporting. New technology supports 2-way continuous data transfer between OPC and Excel, with no special plug-ins or macros required.

Georgetown, Ontario (PRWEB) March 28, 2006 -- The new OPC DataHub from Cogent Real-Time Systems feeds live data from any OPC-based production system into an Excel spreadsheet to perform real-time data analysis or generate dynamic summary reports. Data generated by Excel spreadsheets can also be sent back to the production system, all without the need for complex macro programming or special Excel plug-ins.

"Connecting Excel to OPC has never been easier" said Mr. Andrew Thomas, president of Cogent. "You just select your points and drag them into an open spreadsheet. Release the mouse button, and they start updating."

The OPC DataHub links any number of OPC servers across a standard network or Internet connection to any Excel worksheet. The data flow can be configured as one-way or bidirectional, and optimized to reduce network traffic in large applications. Spreadsheets saved with links to the OPC DataHub are automatically updated with the most recent values as soon as they are opened, making production reporting accurate and consistent.

"This technology is useful for managers and planners as well as engineers," said Mr. Thomas. "Now they can view live reports and real-time production analysis from data linked directly to the source. The numbers update continuously as production conditions change in real time."

In addition to connecting Excel to OPC servers, the OPC DataHub also links to other applications and operating systems. It can be used to bridge between OPC servers or connect to relational databases like SQL Server or Oracle. The OPC DataHub also provides customizable web access to process data, making it accessible from a web browser anywhere in the world.

The OPC DataHub builds on Cogent's established middleware technology, first introduced in 1995 and currently in use in thousands of systems worldwide. This technology allows users to seamlessly integrate data across multiple Windows, Linux and QNX platforms.

Founded in 1995, Cogent Real-Time Systems is the leader in real-time cross-platform data integration between Windows, Linux and QNX. Customers include the Bank of Canada, Cadbury Chocolate and the European Space Agency. Cogent leverages its experience in real-time data communications to provide the next generation of OPC products.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:55 AM | Comments (0)

Gordon Rudow, CEO of Bonfire Communications to Lead Interactive Session at the IABC Independent Communicator’s Roundtable

Gordon Rudow, CEO of Bonfire Communications will lead communications professionals in an interactive session at International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Independent Communicator’s Roundtable at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco on April 13, 2006.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) March 25, 2006 -- Gordon Rudow, CEO of Bonfire Communications will lead communications professionals in an interactive session at International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Independent Communicator’s Roundtable at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco on April 13, 2006. A meet-and-greet reception begins at 8:30 a.m. followed by Mr. Rudow at 9 a.m.

In this interactive session participants will work with the “Accelerated Communications Planning Map,” providing a valuable takeaway that can be applied to everyday communications planning challenges. Participants will identify audience concerns, distinguish client issues, map objectives and key strategies, and create key top-level themes and messaging for a communications campaign. Mr. Rudow offers that the methodology “will rigorously drive you toward choosing the appropriate solution and the right vehicles to deliver key internal communications.”

“It’s too often that companies think that another newsletter or e-mail from the CEO will create the kind of engagement needed to ensure the success of strategic initiatives. Whether it’s reinventing the supply chain, implementing a critical software or technology, or dealing with a complicated merger or acquisition, assuring that communications address the concerns of the audiences is critical to a successful implementation or engagement activity,” says Rudow.

Gordon Rudow, CEO of Bonfire Communications (www.bonfirecommunications.com), is an industry leader in strategic communications, change management, employee communications and engagement. The Accelerated Communications Planning Map is one tool within the company’s comprehensive communications methodology. The Bonfire Campaign Teams work with companies including Starbucks, MeadWestvaco, Genentech, Oracle, and Symantec in implementing their strategies by engaging their employees in what Bonfire calls the “essential conversations of change and organizational performance.”

About Bonfire Communications
Bonfire Communications specializes in employee engagement and internal communications design and consulting services within a variety of organizations and industries. To learn more about Bonfire's products and services, please visit www.bonfirecommunications.com.

About IABC
The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) is a global network that provides the content, the credibility and the community to help communication professionals succeed in their careers. The IABC’s Independent Communicator’s Roundtable provides communications professionals with seminar-style discussions of topics relevant to professional communicators.

Press Contacts:
Bonfire Communications
Preston Lewis
415.597.9930

International Association of Business Communicators, San Francisco Chapter
Molly Walker
510.428.9291

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:54 AM | Comments (0)

China Pushing Oil to $100 Per Barrell May be Bad, But $10 Per Bushel Wheat Would be Worse

Imagine for a minute that it’s the year 2010, and China has had a bad crop year. Unlike the disaster of the late 1950s, China's newly-found industrial wealth guarantees any future food shortages there won't remain local.

Princeton, NJ (PRWEB) March 28, 2006 -- Imagine for a minute that it’s the year 2010, and China has had a bad crop year. It happens. In the late 1950s China suffered a devastating famine that resulted in roughly 40 million persons starving to death. God forbid it should happen again. But if it should, the Chinese have something today they didn’t have in the 1950s: $700 billion of currency reserves with which to buy grain on the open markets of the world.

“Under such a nightmarish scenario,” explains Jim McCune, Managing Partner of Business Restoration Partners, “There’s really no way to know how high grain prices could go. The impact of such a famine would spread quickly, and be severely felt worldwide.” Of course this is a “worst case” scenario that no one expects to happen, and is unpredictable in any event. But what about current trends in China’s seemingly unquenchable appetite for resources of all kinds that ARE visible today . . . are there things we Do know about now that will have a huge impact on American business in the future? Even without a “worst case” scenario, the answer is a resounding yes.

To answer this crucial question Doane Advisory Services and Business Restoration Partners are contemplating a detailed macro/resource/financial/agricultural study on the Chinese economy that will offer guidance to just about any company that will feel the effects of developments in China. China’s supply of and demand for energy resources will be an important focus of the study, with the primary focus of the study centered on developments in China’s agricultural markets and their expected impact on world—and particularly American—agriculture.

Concerning agriculture, China’s per capita income is rising and urban residents in China are shifting to better diets that include more animal product protein. Explains Doane Advisory Service’s Chief Economist, Rich Pottorff: “Good, high quality cropland is being lost to factories, housing and parking lots. At the same time strong economic growth is causing serious pollution problems for China’s water supply while greatly increasing the demand for water. Only about a decade ago China was self-sufficient in soybean and cotton production – today they are the world’s largest importer for both crops.” Further changes are virtually assured as the dramatic evolution of 21st century China continues.

“Our initial work on China’s economy tells us that this information is critical to the success of American businesses, particularly to those involved in either the energy or agricultural industries,” says McCune, “and a big part of our impetus for doing the study is the piecemeal nature of most information available today on China . . . and the need for a linked, consistent analysis of all the interrelated pieces of the outlook for China’s economy.”

This research project is now in only its initial stage. Given the expense and effort involved in a comprehensive study such as this, the study will only go forward if there is enough interest from American businesses to proceed.