Industrial Manufacturing News

« July 2006 | Main | September 2006 »

August 29, 2006

Spam Cube Signs Exclusive Global Distribution Deal With eSys

Spam Cube Inc. founders Joseph P. Marino & Jonathan Fortin are going global in their battle against unwanted email, and they’ve found a distribution partner who’s got their back.

New York (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 – Spam Cube, Inc – which created the Spam Cube™ the world’s first OnDemand security hardware gadget that stops spam, viruses and phishing for home networks – has teamed up with US$ 2 Billion eSys Technologies, one of the world’s fastest growing IT Companies and clearly among Top 10 Companies in Technology distribution. Their exclusive distribution deal will help move the Spam Cube beyond the borders of United States and into the hands of PC users worldwide.

"We partnered with eSys because they’re a global electronics distribution powerhouse," said Marino. "We’ve intentionally held out on picking an exclusive distribution partner for Spam Cube. Our business development team had multiple offers on the table from other distributors, but we weren’t satisfied with their value propositions. eSys won our business because they’re giving us more than sales and logistics support – they’re giving us the attention we need to bring the Spam Cube to the entire world quicker."

And the quicker the better. Spammers around the world are growing in sophistication everyday, with companies losing nearly $20 billion annually in productivity and costs associated with combating spam, according to a recent report in the Toronto Globe and Mail. Said Canadian computer science researcher John Aycock: "It’s very much an arms race between the good guys and the bad guys."

Spam Cube is leading this legion of good guys against a high-tech axis of evil. With the distributing power of eSys behind them, more customers around the world will have access to Spam Cube Inc.’s unique device that protects up to four computers in the home without a costly subscription. The Spam Cube − featured on HGTV’s I Want That! Tech Toys and on the front page of the New York Times’ Business Day section − eliminates spam content at the source by identifying known solicitors of spam and purging them from email inboxes. Spam Cube, which works in unison with every operating system and is priced at $150, is also the ultimate weapon against viruses and phishing emails, which are sent in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information.

The partnership with eSys Technologies gives Spam Cube Inc. access to a global distributor with an impeccable reputation, subsidiary operations in 38 countries and 30,000 strong Channel partners in more than 85 countries. Incorporated in 2000, eSys has revolutionized the IT distribution world by deploying a business model involving centralized back-office and shared services, while maintaining a personalized approach with every single client.

"eSys believes that technology innovators or brand owners like Spam Cube should focus on their core capabilities and outsource non-core peripheral activities to get higher efficiencies," said eSys COO Neeraj Chauhan. "eSys is offering Spam Cube a unique outsourcing proposition with a comprehensive set of services including global logistics and warehousing, transactional services, sales support, reverse logistics and online B2B & B2C operations. We look forward to working with Spam Cube and helping them achieve their business objectives in the most efficient way."

Spam Cube’s cutting-edge advances go beyond stopping spam. The company offers an optional service called Security OnDemand™, which deletes email viruses from inboxes and alerts users whenever they receive a fraudulent email. For an annual rate of $52, Security OnDemand provides McAfee and Symantec Norton anti-virus and Spam Cube’s anti-phishing technology.

"The Spam Cube, the world’s first OnDemand security hardware gadget, is enough of a disruptor for us to enter consumer markets worldwide," said David Soares, CBDO at Spam Cube "We did a tremendous amount of research and consulting before settling on eSys and we are showing the world the power of Security OnDemand, our patented delivery platform. Since Spam Cube has always strived to be the best, we weren't going to put our distribution future into the hands of a company that wasn't first-rate."

About Spam Cube, Inc
Spam Cube, Inc is known for creating the world’s first anti-spam gadget for the home called The Spam Cube. The Spam Cube is famous for protecting every day consumers who are faced with complex spam, viruses and identity fraud scams on the Internet, by simply plugging it into their home computer or home network.

Spam Cube, Inc is based in New York, NY and has 11 patents pending.

Spam Cube’s Internet address is http://www.spamcube.com

About eSys Distribution, Inc

Incorporated in the year 2000, Singapore headquartered eSys Technologies is a US $2 billion Multinational with 117 offices in 38 countries. With global leadership position in the desktop Hard Disk Drive Distribution and other Technology products, eSys has successfully diversified into PC Manufacturing and Business Process & IT Services. eSys has four state of the art, automated PC manufacturing facilities in Singapore, Los Angeles, Dubai and New Delhi, which produce the world’s best priced computers.

It has pioneered the concept of TBO (Total Business Off shoring / Outsourcing) in which whole businesses in multiple locations are run from low-cost, high-skilled countries. Currently eSys uses its nerve center in India and Singapore to carry this out. With more than 1000 employees across the globe and 30,000 business customers, eSys has three business verticals of Technology Distribution, PC Business and Business Process & IT Services.

eSys is among the fastest growing companies in the world across industries and clearly the fastest growing IT Distribution Company globally. eSys has won numerous awards like Best Enterprise, Best Entrepreneur (for its Chairman), etc, apart from many industry awards, which have over the years validated eSys’ performance and success.

eSys’s Internet address (Corporate) : is www.esysglobal.com
(America) : http://www.esysamericas.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:25 AM | Comments (0)

First All Natural Cleaner Using Effective Microorganisms Technology™ In The United States Released By EM America

EM America releases the first cleaner in the United States made with EM Technology™ that is free of synthetic ingredients. Made with organically-grown lavender, energized water, and EM Technology™.

Alto, TX (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 -- EM America has released Earth Shine All-Purpose Cleaner, the first cleaner in the United States that utilizes Effective Microorganisms Technology™ to clean and deodorize.

It appears more and more people in the United States are chemically sensitive and cannot tolerate anything synthetic. Many of our customers often use EM•1® to break down chemicals in their home, clothes, automobiles, etc., so they can be free of headaches and nausea. EM America began to develop a cleaner to satisfy our customers’ request for a solution that used the incredible Effective Microorganisms Technology™, knowing it would be safe for the earth. This month EM America released Earth Shine All-Purpose Cleaner. Keeping with the goal that EM America produce and promote sustainable technologies, Earth Shine is made with 5 all natural ingredients and sold in fully recyclable packaging. Earth Shine is free of preservatives and colorants too.

In a world that continues to produce harmful substances to clean and bleach with oxidative compounds, Earth Shine follows a different path and uses EM Technology™ to clean with the power of ANTI-OXIDATION. Antioxidants (vitamins and minerals) do not corrode surfaces and can eliminate odors. It turns out that they can also do a great job cleaning. Earth Shine combines magnetically conditioned water, herbal extracts, essential oils, and natural soap with EM Technology™. All the ingredients in Earth Shine are food grade, making it safe for all surfaces, people, pets, and the earth. Lavender has been used in cleaning for centuries. The Pilgrims used to hang their laundry over plantings of the herb because of its pleasant scent. Lavender also grows very well in the desert where Earth Shine is made. EM•1® is approved for organic production without restrictions (OMRI Listed) and the lavender used in the extract is grown organically with EM•1® and composts made with EM•1®. EM Technology™ provides enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and bacteriocins. Earth Shine is the first cleaner to use all of these unique ingredients to clean and deodorize.

Earth Shine comes in three sizes: a 16-ounce ready to use spray bottle for $6.99, a 1-quart refill for $8.99, and a 1-gallon concentrate for commercial uses for $24.99. Earth Shine is available for use on all food preparation surfaces as well as floors, walls, countertops, windows, and any other surface. We have been sending out samples for people to test and we are getting some great feedback. One customer told us he used it to clean grease out of grout that had not been sealed and it took it right out. It takes soap films off of windows and mirrors that you wouldn’t have known they were there before using it.

EM America is the exclusive sales and marketing company of EM•1®, PROEM•1 Probiotic, Dr. Don’s Antioxidant Oral Hygiene Products, and EM•1® Rice Bran Bokashi in the continental United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Contact EM America for products, technical service, and availability of all products bearing the EM logo (recently recognized as a famous Japanese trademark) and consulting: (866) 369-3678. Or visit our newly designed website at: http://www.emamerica.com/data.
EM•1®, EM-X, and the EM Logo are property of the EM Research Organization in Okinawa, Japan.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:24 AM | Comments (0)

EAM Software Consulting and Implementation Partnerships Strengthen Invensys Presence in Latin America

Invensys Process Systems has announced that two Latin American software consulting and implementation partners will continue to help sell and service its Avantis Enterprise Asset Management software (http://www.avantis.net) in Latin America. Fundacion GCM, headquartered in Mexico, and Insyss, headquartered in Guatemala, will provide local implementation, training and support for all Avantis asset management products.

Foxboro, MA (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 -- Invensys Process Systems has announced that two Latin American software consulting and implementation partners will continue to help sell and service its Avantis Enterprise Asset Management software (http://www.avantis.net) in Latin America. Fundacion GCM, headquartered in Mexico, and Insyss, headquartered in Guatemala, will provide local implementation, training and support for all Avantis asset management products.

"Both Fundacion GCM and Insyss have extensive experience in helping Latin American companies to improve efficiency and profitability of process operations in such industries as food and beverage, chemical, pharmaceutical, manufacturing and pulp and paper, and we are pleased to be able to provide them software and tools that will help them serve their markets even better," said Neil Cooper, general manager of the Avantis unit of Invensys Process Systems. "

Invensys continues to support the partners as part of the Avantis Global Reach initiative, which is designed to ensure that Invensys can deliver the most cost effective asset management solution to any customer, anywhere in the world.

The companies will sell and implement the complete Avantis asset management solution (www.avantis.net). This includes enterprise asset management, condition monitoring and management, and business intelligence solutions that improve resource productivity by driving down operating costs, minimizing the risk of unplanned downtime, and maximizing financial return on capital assets.

Fundacion GCM (www.gcm.com.mx) provides business and software technology consulting services and will represent Avantis throughout Mexico. Founded in 1988, Fundacion GCM specializes in improving process efficiency and profitability of companies in the food and beverage, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.

"Our expertise is working with companies to maximize resources and productivity, which is a perfect fit with Invensys. The Avantis EAM software offers a proven system to significantly improve asset performance and reliability in just about any company. And the scalability to meet customers’ changing needs provides a long-term solution for our diverse range of customers," says Héctor Rivera, consulting manager, Fundacion GCM.

Insyss (www.insyss.com) offers business consulting services and works with companies to implement asset management solutions that integrate process and production with enterprise information systems. With a strong customer base in the food and beverage, chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, metals and mining, and manufacturing industries, Insyss represents Avantis throughout Central America and the Caribbean. Most recently Insyss made the first successful implementation of Avantis.DSS (Decision Support System) in Latin America (Costa Rica).

"Since partnering with Invensys, we have worked with customers to improve their operations with a solid asset management system. Customers are finding the Avantis EAM solution backed by certified consultants is the winning combination for optimizing assets, which gives them a competitive edge. We are looking forward to continuing to build on this win-win-win situation for our customers, Insyss and Invensys," says Marco A. Rosales, general manager, Insyss.

The Latin American partnerships are the most recent development in the Avantis Global Reach initiative. The program enables Avantis to provide comprehensive customer service worldwide, while realizing the business opportunities in emerging markets. For more than 20 years, customers throughout the world have relied on Avantis enterprise asset management (EAM) solutions to improve resource productivity by driving down operating costs, minimizing the risk of unplanned downtime, and maximizing financial return on capital assets.

About Invensys
Invensys is the world leader in industrial asset performance management. In addition to its rapidly expanding Global Solutions and Performance Management services groups, Invensys’ automation businesses includes industry-leading brands such as Foxboro, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware, and Avantis, whose products are installed in more than 100,000 plants across the world. These range from small hybrid and batch plants to the world’s largest upstream projects, refineries, gas plants, petrochemicals plants, power plants, and pulp and paper mills.
For more information on Invensys’ process automation businesses, please visit www.invensys.com/ps.

For more information on Invensys’ groundbreaking InFusion enterprise control system, please visit www.infusionecs.com.

The Invensys Group (www.invensys.com) is headquartered in London and is listed on the London Stock Exchange, with approximately 30,000 employees working in 60 countries.

Avantis, InRim, Foxboro, I/A Series, SimSci-Esscor, Triconex, and Wonderware are trademarks of Invensys plc, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:23 AM | Comments (0)

Retaining Wall Manufacturer Northstar Vinyl Products Set to Benefit From Georgia Gulf’s Agreement to Purchase Royal Group Technologies

With an already strong relationship with Royal Group Technologies, North America’s largest PVC converter, Northstar Vinyl Products LLC looks forward to strengthening that relationship once the company is under the Georgia Gulf fold.

Kennesaw, GA (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 -- The announcement this past June that Georgia Gulf agreed to acquire all outstanding common stock of Royal Group Technologies, was great news for retaining wall manufacturer Northstar Vinyl Products.

Historically, retaining walls were built of traditional materials like wood and concrete. In fact, since availability of these materials was great, they remained the top material choices for many years. However, in recent years, retaining walls have changed dramatically with two key innovations. Vinyl sheet piling and marine-grade composite sheet piling have taken the retaining walls industry to an entirely new level and have quickly become the first choice for retaining wall manufacturing.

Northstar Vinyl Products is now developing a strong relationship with Royal Group Technologies, a leading producer of vinyl building and construction products. In fact, the strong relationship between the two companies is helping to elevate PVC to the most popular choice for constructing retaining walls.

“Georgia Gulf manufactures commodity chemicals, vinyl resins, and vinyl compounds, which are the basic materials used to manufacture PVC. The combination of Royal Group Technologies with Georgia Gulf should mean innovative strides and greater efficiencies in the PVC arena,” states Jeff Moreau, Northstar Vinyl Products.

He continues: “We are looking forward to further developing our relationship with the newly combined company. With our exciting array of retaining wall products and the necessity to constantly innovate and make our products better, we hope to continue our expansion of our production capabilities and shorter the production time in order to meet increasing demand for retaining walls constructed from vinyl sheet piling.”

Northstar Vinyl Products emerged as a leader in retaining wall products installed throughout the Gulf Coast and other regions in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the region, took hundreds of lives and caused billions of dollars in damage.

About Us:
Northstar Vinyl Products, LLC is located in Kennesaw, GA. Manufacturing facilities are located in Pell City, AL, Rockford, IL, Houston, TX, Cartersville, GA and Woodbridge, Canada.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:22 AM | Comments (0)

Productivity Nano-Conference in San Francisco on September 14, 2006

Busy, mobile professionals will flock to the Productivity Nano-Conference at Microsoft in San Francisco on September 14, 2006 to hone their skills in managing communication and manipulating core desktop applications.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 -- Busy, mobile professionals will have the opportunity to boost their productivity at the Productivity Nano-Conference at Microsoft’s offices in San Francisco on September 14th, 2006. Attendees will hone their skills and learn new techniques in using core desktop applications and managing and organizing e-mail communication. In particular, the nano-conference offers short courses in Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. The afternoon session focuses on “getting organized,” giving users a methodology for organizing e-mail, electronic documents, papers, and their physical workspace.

“Today’s professionals are not always able to spare the time to attend traditional training classes as we know them, so professionals need new ways to take their skills to the next level and improve their productivity,” said Bill Ramirez, Education Manager of CIBER’s San Francisco office. CIBER, Inc. (NYSE: CBR) is a co-sponsor of the conference. “Training managers want to offer condensed training programs that address the areas where users spend substantial time, such as e-mail, office applications, and hand-held devices. Short, highly-focused conferences that address critical needs without requiring a large time investment are an ideal medium.”

“Users today also need a different approach to training. We are finding that they are more savvy when it comes to the applications they use, so they need to learn the more advanced tips and techniques that can help them solve real business challenges such as managing the information overload,” said Deborah Bonner, from Golden Rule training, also a co-sponsor of the Productivity Nano-Conference.

The theme of the nano-conference is: “You can choose.” In the midst of information and technology overload, we are driven to distraction and often find it difficult to take control. According to Pierre Khawand, CEO and Founder of People-OnTheGo, workshop instructor and co-sponsor for the Productivity Nano-Conference, “We hope to empower professionals by arming them with techniques for optimizing productivity. Rather than being bogged down by technology, people should feel liberated by it. The more you know about the technology tools at your disposal, the more freedom you’ll have to get the job done when you want, the way you want.”

Training providers and designers today, such as Golden Rule Training and People-OnTheGo, and IT consultancies and system integrators, such as CIBER, are aware of the needs of today’s workforce, and the challenges created by information overload. As a result, the marketplace will be seeing more innovative offerings, such as the Productivity Nano-Conference, that bridge the gap between the complexity of the technology and the needs of the business community—people who want to use the technology as transparently as possible to get their jobs done and accomplish their business objectives.

About CIBER
CIBER, Inc. (NYSE: CBR) is a pure-play international system integration consultancy with superior value-priced services for both private and government sector clients. CIBER’s global delivery services are offered on a project or strategic staffing basis, in both custom and enterprise resource planning (ERP) package environments, and across all technology platforms, operating systems and infrastructures. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colo., the company now serves client businesses from over 60 U.S. offices, 20 European offices and four offices in Asia. Operating in 18 countries, with 8,000 employees and annual revenue of nearly $1 billion, CIBER and its IT specialists continuously build and upgrade clients’ systems to “competitive advantage status.” CIBER is included in the Russell 2000 Index and the S&P Small Cap 600 Index. CIBER, ALWAYS ABLE. www.ciber.com

About Golden Rule Training
Golden Rule Training Resources brings online and onsite classes and training events to corporate clients in the San Francisco Bay Area. Virtual online classes are offered to the public through the website. Training includes productivity classes, Microsoft Office classes, and customized classes in common desktop applications. www.goldenruletraining.com

About People-OnTheGo
People-OnTheGo helps companies and their employees effectively manage the use of e-mail, office applications, and handheld devices, to save significant time, communicate more effectively, and minimize legal and security risks. The learning programs include onsite, online live, and Web self-paced modules, as well as one-on-one and team coaching sessions. www.people-onthego.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:21 AM | Comments (0)

Technology Company in Enfield, CT Offers New Automated Test Equipment Services and Support

Some companies in the manufacturing industry use old, manual methods to test their products. By using readily available software programs, testing can be automated, saving time, money, and creating improved efficiency.

Enfield, CT (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 –- RTCubed Consulting, LLC has announced new services relating to the design, programming, and maintenance of automated test equipment. Companies that can benefit from these services would be manufacturing and production businesses that have needs for testing their products. These services can save time, money, and produce repeatable results.

The benefits of using an automated test equipment framework are numerous. Programming scripts and sequences can be generated, which make tests repeatable and instantly available to be run again on demand. Operator error, which was common on manual instrumentation, is now eliminated, since the test sequencer controls the actions of the test stand.

By designing a suite of tests for a product, operators can then press a button to commence the testing, and then receive visual results on screen during the testing process. Automated testing streamlines the operator’s activities with the test equipment. A high level of confidence in the whole testing process is achieved this way.

A test equipment platform can be made generic, with harnesses and connectors wired to test multiple products with the same equipment, saving additional money. A capital expenditure for one test rig can pay for itself many times over with the ability to test multiple products. A testing platform designed this way will not be easily obsolete, and presents a good return on investment.

The services RTCubed Consulting can provide include programming of test equipment, design and maintenance of test stands, and advice on what equipment to buy. The testing and instrumentation software supported includes National Instruments’ LabVIEW and TestStand products, The Mathworks MATLAB and Simulink products, and FSMLabs RT-Linux real-time operating system and kernel.

Product and company names mentioned in this release are the properties of their respective companies.

For additional information, contact Robert Thoelen at (860) 849-1101.

About RTCubed Consulting, LLC:
RTCubed Consulting, LLC focuses on providing software consulting services to a wide variety of industries and clients, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Its mission is to help other companies improve their operations by integrating computing systems and software to improve efficiency.

Contact Information:
Robert Thoelen III
RTCubed Consulting, LLC
860-849-1101
http://www.rtcubed.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:20 AM | Comments (0)

National Vending Machine Management Company, Vending Solutions, LLC. Hires Andy Robins as Operational Sales Assistant

Vending Solutions announced that it has hired Andy Robins for the position of Operational Sales Assistant. In his new position Mr. Robins will play in integral roll in the implementation of vending management programs with Vending Solutions’ client accounts throughout the United States.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) August 29, 2006 -- Vending Solutions, a recognized leader in vending machine management services, announced that Andy Robins has been hired for the position of Operational Sales Assistant.

When asked about his new position in the company Mr. Robins replied, "I'm thrilled to have joined such a great workplace. This is a wonderful opportunity for me, and I look forward to learning more and growing within this organization. With that in mind, I hope to contribute plenty to Vending Solutions."

In his new position, Mr. Robins will serve as an information resource and provide help to existing clients throughout the United States. He will also be responsible for managing customer satisfaction surveys and serve as a point of contact for ongoing client relationships with national customers.

“Andy has been a refreshing addition to our team. We are confident he will help us to push our expectations of the business we do," said Sonja Skvarla, Operations Coordinator.

With its full-service vending management program, Vending Solutions installs beverage and snack vending machines as well as amusement and bulk machines. They are responsible for the upkeep and rotation of product offerings including the handling of all service and repair issues. Vending Solutions has been in the vending machine management industry for 13 years placing vending machines in a variety of locations such as apartments, offices, schools, malls, entertainment and sports venues, resorts, hotels and many more. More information regarding Vending Solutions’ vending machine services can be found on their website: www.vendingsolutions.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:19 AM | Comments (0)

Fuel Cell is “BEGINI”: Antig and Partners AVC, Nan Ya PCB, Syspotek To Showcase Portable Fuel Cell at IFA 2006

Antig Technology, having revealed in CeBIT 2006 its SoC fuel cell module solutions for portable electronic devices, is coming back to Germany with its fuel cell strategic partners, Nan Ya Printed Circuit Boards (NY PCB), Asia Vital Components (AVC), and Syspotek at IFA 2006 to introduce the latest fuel cell design and solution services gear toward portable devices. Together the team fulfills a complete fuel cell system from key components to the entire system. The fuel cell reference design facilitates rapid adoption and optimization of fuel cell technology by the system/utility makers. Visit : IFA 2006 at Hall 1.2 Stand 126

Taipei, Taiwan (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Antig Technology, having revealed in CeBIT 2006 its SoC fuel cell module solutions for portable electronic devices, is coming back to Germany with its fuel cell strategic partners, Nan Ya Printed Circuit Boards (NY PCB), Asia Vital Components (AVC), and Syspotek at IFA 2006 to introduce the latest fuel cell design and solution services geared towards portable devices. All headquartered in Taiwan, the four strategic partners leverage the strong design and manufacturing capability of Taiwan / Greater China IT supply chain structure to solve the commercial bottleneck of the new energy technology - Fuel Cell.

Antig (www.antig.com), as the fuel cell solution provider, had first came up with the unique and commercial viable SoC fuel cell module solution targeting the portable devices. The standardized module design and common communication protocols deployed enable quick adoption of new technology fuel cell to the applications. The three strategic partners: Nan Ya PCB, Syspotek, and AVC each took Antig’s fuel cell module technology and integrated with their own expertise: Nan Ya PCB (www.nanyapcb.com.tw) the world leading PCB company, leverages its process and production capability into SoC fuel cell module mass production; Syspotek (www.syspotek.com) the professional IC design company utilizes its knowledge in IC and application interfacing in the energy management of the fuel cell system; AVC (www.avc.com.tw) the world top thermal solution company, incorporates its know-how into the Balance of Plant components in the fuel cell system.

Together the team fulfills a complete fuel cell system from key components to the entire system. The fuel cell application reference design for portable devices –BEGINI, will be showcasing at IFA 2006, disclosing the fuel cell standardize and modular system components of BEGINI: Module Stack, EMS (Energy Management System), BOP (Balance of Plant), and Fuel Cartridge; the fuel cell reference design facilitates rapid adoption and optimization of fuel cell technology by the system/utility makers. For fuel cell pack ODM/OEM services or more information, visit : IFA 2006 at Hall 1.2 Stand 126

Media Contact:
Linnet Tsai
+49-0511-1053981 ( during IFA 2006 )
+886-2-26562569 ( rest of calendar year)

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:17 AM | Comments (0)

Emission System Provider Meets Tight Delivery Deadline Despite Need to Replace Component Supplier at the Eleventh

When The Hanover Company’s pressure transmitter supplier backed out at the last minute, The Foxboro Measurements & Instruments Division of Invensys (www.foxboro.com/instrumentation) came through with record delivery time, allowing Hanover to meet the contracted delivery date for a multi-million dollar system order. By supplying specialty pressure transmitters in just three days versus the industry standard of two weeks, The Invensys division helped Hanover fulfill an emissions control system order on time and on budget, avoiding significant late-delivery penalty charges.

Foxboro, MA (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- When The Hanover Company’s pressure transmitter supplier backed out at the last minute, The Foxboro Measurements & Instruments Division of Invensys (www.foxboro.com/instrumentation) came through with record delivery time, allowing Hanover to meet the contracted delivery date for a multi-million dollar system order. By supplying specialty pressure transmitters in just three days versus the industry standard of two weeks, The Invensys division helped Hanover fulfill an emissions control system order on time and on budget, avoiding significant late-delivery penalty charges.

The Hanover Company is a global market leader in designing, fabricating, and delivering custom equipment for oil and natural gas processing. One such system is a sulfur recovery unit (SRU), an emissions control system that eliminates or reduces sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions. Designed for use in oil fields, the SRU partially oxidizes hydrogen sulfide to produce elemental sulfur for disposal as a solid, as compared to the full oxidation product, which produces gaseous SO2. This reaction in combination with several stages of separation, reheating and catalytic conversion produces a final off-gas that complies with emissions regulations, thus eliminating pollution resulting from flaring of by-product hydrogen sulfide associated with petroleum.

As a fabricator, Hanover’s Broken Arrow, OK, facility works closely with its supply chain of vendors for critical components ranging from control systems to flow loop instrumentation. While Hanover is ultimately responsible for the SRU, it’s a team effort whose success relies on every component being delivered on time and to specification.

For the application, Hanover needed more than 60 differential pressure (DP) transmitters as a critical component of the flow loop system to maintain the pressures and flows required for peak performance. "We reviewed proposals and selected a vendor based on an extremely competitive package they offered that included attractive pricing. But as it turned out, they could not meet the promised delivery date, which left us in a very precarious position. At the eleventh-hour we had to recall vendors and see who, if anyone could deliver DP transmitters that met our stringent requirements, at a competitive price, within our tight timeframe. This was a time for Superman," says Scott Pickens, electrical engineer with The Hanover Company.

Having used Invensys Foxboro DP transmitters extensively in the past, Pickens contacted the local Foxboro representative, the Canada Company, Tulsa, OK, to discuss the situation. "They provided a solution that at first I had a tough time believing. I had to be certain of meeting this delivery date, and there was no margin for error," says Pickens.

He contacted the folks at Canada Company on Monday, May 23 to review their original proposal submitted back in March. Invensys was closed that Monday, but got back to the Canada Company first thing Tuesday. This immediate response allowed the Canada Company to close the deal and secure a verbal order from Hanover by Tuesday afternoon.

"While I was impressed with Invensys’ response time, it was nothing compared to their lightning delivery," says Pickens. "We consummated the deal on Tuesday and product started showing up on Thursday. By Friday, 90 percent of the order was on site. Even I didn’t expect delivery that promptly."

The Foxboro pressure transmitters selected for this application were the IDP10 differential transmitter and the IGP10 gage pressure transmitter. Both are intelligent two-wire transmitters and feature silicone strain gage sensors that have proven themselves in thousands of field applications. For high reliability performance, the Foxboro transmitters include proprietary sensor packaging with very few parts. Each transmits a 4 to 20 mA output signal and includes HART protocol for remote configuration.

"Foxboro really pulled out the stops to work with us and even worked with their supplier of seals to expedite delivery to accommodate our time frame. They truly came through as a strong link in our supply chain," says Pickens.

Timely delivery of the pressure transmitters allowed Pickens to complete the instrumentation and electronics portion of the SRU, just under deadline, which allowed Hanover to meet its promised delivery deadline. "Given that the system was going to Bulgaria, we had to allow for shipping, which was no problem. The system arrived on time and fired up right on schedule," says Pickens.

For more information on the Foxboro differential pressure transmitters, other advanced Foxboro measurement and instrument devices, or the quick delivery Rocket Program®, readers can contact their local Invensys/Foxboro representative, visit the Foxboro Measurements and Instruments Web Site at www.foxboro.com/instrumentation or call 866-746-6477 (508-549-2424 outside the U.S. and Canada). The Foxboro differential pressure system can also be purchased on-line at www.buyautomation.com.

About Foxboro M&I Division
The Foxboro Measurements and Instruments (M&I) Division has a long-standing reputation for providing world-class measurement solutions. With a legacy of accurate, reliable, and innovative products, the group prides itself on working with customers to achieve industry-best total solutions for optimum measurement or analysis of temperature, pressure, flow, and electrochemical variables.

About Invensys
Invensys is the world leader in industrial asset performance management. In addition to its rapidly expanding Global Solutions and Performance Management services groups, Invensys’ automation businesses includes industry-leading brands such as Foxboro, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware, and Avantis, whose products are installed in more than 100,000 plants across the world. These range from small hybrid and batch plants to the world’s largest upstream projects, refineries, gas plants, petrochemicals plants, power plants, and pulp and paper mills.

The Invensys Group (www.invensys.com) is headquartered in London and is listed on the London Stock Exchange, with approximately 30,000 employees working in 60 countries.

Invensys, SimSci-Esscor, Foxboro, DolpHin, Triconex, Wonderware, and Avantis are trademarks of Invensys plc, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. All other brands and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:15 AM | Comments (0)

Endohedral Metallofullerenes Now Available at 10 Cents a Gram

Cost barriers fall for nano-material use as metallofullerenes become immediately available for 100X cheaper than present sources.

Raleigh, NC (PRWEB via NSTI) August 28, 2006 -- Breaking through the primary commercial barrier to the use of these critically important nano-structures in a $ 300 billion industry, JenLaur, Ltd. has announced the availability of a number of species of metallofullerene at well under $1.00 a gram for 99.9% purified species as well as the immediate availability of 99+pure C60@Fe in bulk quantity for $ 0.10 per gram.

This unique new class of molecules, whose fullerene shell encapsulates and incorporates transitional metal as well as other elements, provides a protective barrier for the reactive metal atom. It develops as well a functional fullerene group for use as substrates, carrier molecules, catalysts, metal matrix composites, and bulk material inoculation enhancing property improvements.

This proprietary patent pending system finally resolves the issues of prohibitively high production costs inherent in the presently understood systems. According to a recent NSF Grant, the system derivatives being presently explored for the production of metallofullerenes hold the promise of reducing present day costs to a projected low of $10.00 a gram for 99% purity material.

JenLaur can now offer these 99+ pure metallofullerenes for $ 0.10 per gram, making the projected applications in nano-materials, nan-memory systems, superconductivity, pharmaceuticals, nonlinear optics, metal-matrix composites, high strength, high wear, extremely low friction and corrosion resistance materials a reality of today, not tomorrow.

This new in-situ process produces 99+ purity transitional metal metallofullerenes through a continuous, dramatically unique synthesis method that is scalable from the present 25,000 lbs per month level to over 200,000 lbs per month within the next six months. This unique system grows the metallofullerene in a pure form removing the cost of purification from most species. It can be purchased in bulk crystalline form or as nano-powder. The C60@Fe metallofullerene is completely stable in open atmosphere up to 3700 F.

The C60@Fe metallofullerene derivatives have already shown extremely attractive properties in electromechanical and electromagnetic materials, potentials for FRAM chip technology, biochemistry, catalytic reactions and transport mechanisms, extremely high wear, high toughness, and corrosion resistance in metal matrix composites as well as in additions to polymers. The less than 2 Angstrom surface deviation in the large surface crystalline form combined with thermal stability to 3700 F and thermal and electrical conductivities over four times that of any reported standard ferro-carbon chemistry with a dynamic coefficient of friction of < 0.03 holds the promise of breaking many present day material barriers.

JenLaur, Ltd. is pleased to announce the choice of Ervin Industries, Inc. of Ann Arbor, MI, as our prime toll manufacturer of these proprietary patent-pending materials.

The primary researchers at Jen Laur have been working on this technology for nearly a decade and are pleased to be the first company that can say, "We are ready to take orders." Samples, as well as confirming data, are available immediately by contacting JenLaur, Ltd. at the numbers below or at www.jenlaurltd.com. We look forward to supporting the industrial growth these materials promise now that the obvious cost barriers to full commercialization have been removed.

Copyright 2006 JenLaur, Ltd.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:14 AM | Comments (0)

Data Clean Expands East Coast and International Data Center Cleaning and Cleanroom Cleaning Operations Including Regional Office in Virginia

Concerned with disaster prevention, data center and cleanroom managers are taking a closer look at preventing downtime caused by contaminates in their mission critical environments. The East coast regional office conveniently serves the region demand for data center cleaning and cleanroom cleaning specialists.

Des Plaines, IL (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Data Clean Corporation, the leader in controlled environment cleaning services, today announced the expansion of its newest East coast regional office, Data Clean Virginia. The East coast operation is one of several expansion initiatives, which also include offices in Europe and Asia. Additional details on international offices and their offerings will be released in the coming week.

While Data Clean has serviced the East coast region for many years, the new office will function as an important hub for the active data center cleaning and cleanroom cleaning operations in Delaware, New Jersey, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington DC, and West Virginia. The regional office is lead by Mike Piscelli, and is located at 7950 Gainsford Court, Suite 202, Bristol, VA 20136.

With disaster prevention taking the front seat to disaster recovery, data center and cleanroom managers are seeking out specialized cleaning services from trusted partners.

Smaller chips, lower voltage levels, and higher clock speeds make today's servers more susceptible than ever to environmental failures. Contaminates mixed with moisture easily create semi-conductive bridges between component leads. Packet loss, bit errors, and outright failures can be caused by dirt and dust. Also, warranties of expensive equipment can sometimes be voided due to poor environmental conditions.

Concerned CIO's, data center managers, and cleanroom operations officers will find Data Clean's upcoming webcast, "Downtime Disasters in the Data Center - The Costs of Contamination", helpful in learning to identify contaminates and prevent system downtime. The webcast will be offered Thursday, October 19, 2006, 12 EST / 1 CST / 11 PST. Register at http://web.meetme.net/r.aspx?p=2&a=70541556537921.

Commenting on the new offices in Virginia, Rich Hill, President of Data Clean, said, "We're excited to have a seasoned professional like Mike Piscelli manage the Data Clean Virginia operations. His experience will serve the unique needs of data center cleaning and cleanroom cleaning operations along the East Coast. Our East Coast customers will appreciate the convenience and close proximity of the new office to their centers."

About Data Clean
Data Clean, one of the oldest and most experienced controlled environment cleaning and remediation specialists in the industry, offers 24/7 controlled environment cleaning and maintenance services to data centers and cleanrooms all over the world.

Data Clean has been helping administrators avoid the high cost of contamination since 1979.

Data Clean offers environmental consulting including cooling analysis, airborne particle counts, hot spot remediation, and contamination source identification. Data Clean products such as access floor grommets, seismic bracing, contamination control mats, and floor pullers may be purchased online by visiting Data Clean at http://www.dataclean.com.

Headquartered in Des Plaines, Illinois, Data Clean Corporation is a global company with sales offices in the US, Canada, Asia, and Ireland/UK. Additional information is available at www.dataclean.com or in the US (800) 328-2256, in Canada (800) 217-6146, in Singapore (65) 6559 3490, and in Ireland +353-(0)1-657-2550.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:12 AM | Comments (0)

The World Of The Largest Indoor Waterfall Manufacturer Just Got a Little Bigger

Bluworld Innovations acquires rights to Water Wonders brand fountains.

Orlando, FL (PRWEB via PRWeb Direct) August 29, 2006 -- Bluworld Innovations, LLC, the world’s largest custom water feature manufacturer, has recently been contracted to manufacture and market the complete product line of the Water Wonders brand of decorative fountains.

Magnus Capital, a privately-held LLC, purchased the assets of Water Wonders, Inc, (Santa Maria, California) on August 18, 2006, and has licensed the exclusive marketing rights to the Water Wonders brand to the Orlando-based company.

Since 1998, Bluworld Innovations has built a strong reputation for producing quality engineered water features and high-end commercial installations for themed restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, health spas and retail establishments around the world. The company has also developed a complete line of consumer waterfall products, derived from its world renowned custom water features, ranging from table top fountains, wall models and free standing floor fountains, designed for both interior and exterior use.

With the additional offering of the Water Wonders classic copper and slate designs, Bluworld Innovations now manufactures and sells the widest range of consumer and corporate water features that has ever been offered by a single company.

Michael Brown, Bluworld’s Vice President of Sales stated, “There is great synergy and excitement created by Bluworld’s acquisition of the Water Wonder’s product line, as this further asserts Bluworld Innovations as the leading producer of quality commercial and consumer water features.”

Bluworld expects to experience a transition period of approximately 90 days before the Water Wonders products will be back on the market. Bluworld Innovation’s product engineers assure the revamped product line will be consistent with the quality that consumers around the world have come to expect from the Bluworld label. Water Wonder’s current customers can still purchase remaining inventory, but only in limited availability.

For more information, or to view an online portfolio, please visit www.bluworldusa.com or call the corporate headquarters at 407-426-7674.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:11 AM | Comments (0)

Bourne Research Releases Collection of Market Briefs Assessing the Use of MEMS and Nanotechnology Across a Wide Spectrum of Industries

The Bourne Report Market Briefs analyze the current commercial use of MEMS and Nanotech in sectors ranging from Automation and Apparel/Textiles, to Food Packaging and Renewable Energy, and as well as products such as Displays, Fuel Cells, Inertial Sensors and Silver Nanoparticles.

Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Bourne Research (www.bourneresearch.com), a trusted source of market intelligence covering emerging technologies, with a specialized focus on MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) and Nanotechnology, today released an extensive collection of market briefs assessing the impact of emerging technologies across a wide spectrum of industries. These timely reports address current market challenges such as oil pipeline maintenance, the recall of lithium-ion batteries, recent airline travel restrictions, and global water management, and the role that MEMS and nanotechnologies are already playing.

The Bourne Report Market Briefs provide a concise overview of each market and the specific needs being addressed by MEMS and Nanotechnology-based solutions, as well as recent product and application-specific developments, and identification of emerging opportunities for suppliers, OEMs and investors.

Some of 17 topics currently covered include:

• Bourne Report: Automation – focused on HVAC/R and wireless sensing
• Bourne Report: Cosmetics – from anti-aging products to perfume
• Bourne Report: Displays – including TVs, cell phones and personal media players
• Bourne Report: Food & Beverage – focused on process control and refrigeration
• Bourne Report: Inertial Sensors – including tri-axis accelerometers and gyros
• Bourne Report: Oil & Gas – from geophysical services to refineries
• Bourne Report: Packaging – including paper and plastic containers, films and smart RFID
• Bourne Report: Smart Homes – from building materials and appliances to décor

Market briefs on Aerospace, Batteries/Fuel Cells, Military, Renewable Energy, Robotics, Security, Silver Nanoparticles, Smart Apparel/Textiles, and Water Quality/Safety are also available. The Bourne Report offers the most insightful market analysis available on emerging technologies, with a focus on MEMS and Nanotechnology. To purchase The Bourne Report Market Briefs, or for more information, please visit: www.bourneresearch.com/marketbriefs.htm.

About Bourne Research

Bourne Research is a trusted source of market intelligence, with a specialized focus on MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems), Nanotechnology, and the convergence of both. Its founder, Marlene Bourne, is a highly respected industry analyst with more than a decade of experience following the development of emerging technologies, and is internationally recognized as one of the leading experts on MEMS.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:11 AM | Comments (0)

Summit Products Certified for Wi-Fi® and Cisco Compatible Extensions Version 3

IEEE 802.11g radio modules from Summit Data Communications, Inc. are the first products to be Wi-Fi CERTIFIED® and certified for Cisco Compatible Extensions (CCX) Version 3 on Windows CE, the operating system that drives many of today’s application-specific devices (ASDs). In the business world, network administrators demand that wireless LAN products bear the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED and Cisco Compatible seals. For Summit products, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED means that the radio modules are interoperable in the 802.11b and 802.11g standards and support WPA-Enterprise and WPA2-Enterprise. By incorporating Summit radio modules into their devices, ASD manufacturers can simplify the process of achieving Cisco Compatible Extensions Version 3 on those devices.

Akron, OH (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Summit Data Communications, Inc. today announced that its 10G Family of IEEE 802.11g client adapters is Wi-Fi CERTIFIED® and also certified for Cisco Compatible Extensions (CCX) Version 3. Summit’s radio modules are the first products to achieve both of these key wireless LAN certifications on Windows CE, the operating system that drives many of today’s application-specific devices (ASDs).

An ASD is a single-purpose mobile client such as a portable data terminal, barcode scanner, portable printer, or medical device. For a business that depends on reliable ASD operation, interoperability between the WLAN radio in every ASD and the WLAN infrastructure is of paramount importance. Summit radios now bear the official interoperability seals of Wi-Fi CERTIFIED and Cisco Compatible.

"Wi-Fi CERTIFIED is a clear indication that a company is committed to ensuring the very best user experience with Wi-Fi gear," said Wi-Fi Alliance® Managing Director Frank Hanzlik. "This has become an important criterion to compete effectively in both consumer and business markets."

"Today’s business customers require that their mobile devices support Cisco Compatible Extensions," said Doug Coombs, Business Development Manager at AppLabs, which conducts Cisco Compatible Extensions testing. "Summit’s products bring Cisco Compatible Extensions support to the business-critical ASDs used in retail, manufacturing, and other vertical markets where wireless LAN usage is booming."

The Importance of Interoperability
The foundation of the recent WLAN boom is interoperability, which ensures that the WLAN radios in client devices will work with radios in WLAN infrastructure products such as access points (APs) or routers, regardless of which vendors offer the client devices and infrastructure products. In the business world, the two certifications demanded most by network administrators come from the Wi-Fi Alliance and Cisco Systems, Inc. While these certifications have long been available on notebook PCs and similar devices, Summit now uniquely brings both certifications to ASDs.

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED
Testing and certification programs of the Wi-Fi Alliance, a non-profit industry association of more than 250 member companies, ensure the interoperability of WLAN products based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 WLAN specifications. Since the introduction of the Alliance's certification program in March 2000, more than 3,000 products have been designated as Wi-Fi CERTIFIED.

Summit’s radio modules were tested for support of 802.11b and 802.11g, including acceptable throughput on a sample ASD. Another key area of testing was security. Every product that seeks Wi-Fi certification must demonstrate support for both Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA™) and WPA2™, the latter of which is equivalent to the IEEE-ratified 802.11i WLAN security standard. Because Summit radio modules are used in business-critical ASDs, Summit sought the Enterprise level of certification for WPA and WPA2, not the less rigorous Personal level that is designed for consumer devices.

The Wi-Fi Alliance certified that Summit radio modules are interoperable in the 802.11b and 802.11g standards and support WPA-Enterprise and WPA2-Enterprise. The tested authentication type was PEAP-MSCHAPv2. For details, visit the Wi-Fi Alliance Web site at http://www.wi-fi.org, click on the "Wi-Fi CERTIFIED® Products" link, and search for Summit Data Communications.

Cisco Compatible Extensions Version 3
Because Cisco has a dominant share of the enterprise WLAN infrastructure market, most business users require full support for the advanced features that the Cisco infrastructure provides. Cisco’s feature set, which builds upon the standard IEEE 802.11 feature set, is embodied in the Cisco Compatible Extensions specification. By certifying to Version 3 of that specification as defined for ASDs, the Summit 10G family provides fully tested support for features including:

• AP-assisted roaming and Cisco Complementary Key Management for fast and secure roaming between APs
• Cisco Radio Management and AP-specified client transmit power for better client management
• A subset of the IEEE 802.11e standard for WLAN quality of service that improves the performance and reliability of latency-sensitive applications such as voice and terminal emulation

Three ASDs on which Summit radios were tested achieved the same Cisco Compatible Extensions V3 certification as the Summit radios. By incorporating Summit radio modules into their devices, other ASD manufacturers can simplify the process of achieving Cisco Compatible Extensions Version 3 on those devices.

Pricing and Availability
Summit products are available in production quantities today. All three of Summit’s 802.11g radio modules – the CF10G compact flash module, PC10G PCMCIA module, and MCF10G miniature compact flash module – are Wi-Fi CERTIFIED; the CF10G module is certified as Cisco Compatible Extensions Version 3 for ASDs. The list price for the CF10G or MCF10G module is US$89; the list price for the PC10G module is US$109. All software capabilities and certifications are included with Summit products at no additional charge. Summit product information and specifications can be found at www.summitdatacom.com. Volume discount information is available to qualified mobile device vendors. For more information, send an E-mail to e-mail protected from spam bots, or call +1 866.434.4300 in North America or +1 330.434.7929 internationally.

About Summit
Summit Data Communications, Inc. is dedicated to providing high-performance wireless LAN modules for today’s business-critical ASDs, such as portable data terminals, barcode scanners, portable printers, medical devices, and industrial automation equipment. Summit radio modules are optimized for the challenging radio environments in which ASDs operate, including factories, warehouses, ports, hospitals, and retail stores.

About AppLabs
AppLabs Technologies is a global IT services company specializing in software testing and development, with an emphasis on quality assurance, performance, certification, and hardware testing. Customers include American Airlines, InstallShield, HP, Novell, and SAP. AppLabs is the first software testing company to get appraised at SEI CMMI Level 5, the highest quality standard attainable in software engineering. The company is headquartered in Philadelphia and maintains state-of-the-art testing centers in Lindon, Utah and Hyderabad, India. For more information, visit www.applabs.com.

Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi Alliance®, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED®, the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo, and the Wi-Fi logo are registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance; and the Wi-Fi Alliance logo is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:10 AM | Comments (0)

Triline EGS Announces Exclusive Partnership with Triline International

Triline EGS (www.TrilineEGS.com) announces an exclusive agreement to import and distribute Triline®, a modular sign system.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Triline EGS (www.TrilineEGS.com) announces an exclusive agreement to import and distribute Triline®, a modular sign system. The Bay Area based company will distribute Triline® through authorized dealers. Triline® is a versatile, modular and ADA compliant sign system that will meet the needs of any business or institution seeking a communication, identification or wayfinding solution.

“The building boom and transient nature of the workforce has greatly expanded the use of versatile wayfinding and communication systems in the United States. While there are a few sign systems on the market today, there is not a complete solution engineered like Triline®,” stated Seth Wiles, President of Triline EGS. Triline EGS will focus on wayfinding, communication and identification and offer their products through sign companies, architects and designers.

Triline® is supplied as a semi-finished or finished product. Wiles goes on to state, “We realize it’s important to meet the needs of those who want to apply finishes on their own, as well as a clear anodized option. We also realize its imperative to offer solutions for customers with smaller shops that may not wish to finish the product on their own.” Triline EGS has a fabrication facility and almost any finish can be applied to the face profiles including digital prints, vinyl, paint, Braille, etc .... The sliding face profiles hold a variety of materials to create a truly flexible and easily changeable sign system. “I’ve been in the sign industry for over 15 years on the custom fabrication side and have never seen such an easy to work with and versatile system,” says Ernie Wright, Director of Operations.

Over the next several months, Triline EGS will launch a suite of services to enhance the customer experience. “At the end of the day we want to make it very easy for sign professionals, Architects and Designers to do business with us. We will use the efficiencies of the Internet to bring a variety of applications that will enhance the experience of our customers.”

About Triline® / Triline EGS
Triline® has been the preferred modular sign provider across the world, raising the bar in communication, identification & wayfinding solutions for government, institutions, healthcare facilities, public transportation, corporate offices, hotels and conference centers. With the creation of Triline EGS (Environmental Graphic Solutions), now Triline® is available in the United States. Triline EGS can be found on the Web at www.TrilineEGS.com. Triline EGS is a member of the Society for Environmental Graphic Designers (SEGD) and the International Sign Association (ISA).

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:09 AM | Comments (0)

ADMET Offers Universal Testing Machines for Australia/New Zealand Markets

ADMET Inc., a provider of integrated materials testing systems, based in the metropolitan Boston area, is offering universal testing machines (UTM), digital indicators and controllers, and specialized grips and fixtures, to the Australian and New Zealand markets.

NORWOOD, Mass. USA (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- ADMET Inc., a provider of integrated materials testing systems, based in the metropolitan Boston area, is offering universal testing machines (UTMs), digital indicators and controllers, and specialized grips and fixtures, to the Australian and New Zealand markets. The company, which sells direct and through qualified representatives, has substantial sales to the Australian and New Zealand metals and concrete industries, as well as university research facilities. It sells new equipment, and retrofits virtually any manufacturer’s testing machines.

“ADMET’s equipment is finding a ready market in Australia,” commented Richard Gedney, ADMET founder and president. “We offer a full range of products from MEMS device testers that measure 10 microNewtons, through low-force tabletop devices, to large models that test up to 600 kiloNewtons. Our network of local calibrators provides excellent service.”

ADMET’s universal testing machines perform a range of materials characterizations using tensile, compression, shear and bend tests. The company’s equipment is used to test concrete, metals, alloys, plastics, rubber, textiles, as well as medical and biomechanical materials and products. They are sold under the ADMET name and are also private-labeled to other materials testing machine suppliers.

ADMET sells both new and used machines. It develops controller hardware and firmware, as well as Microsoft Windows-based materials testing systems. ADMET also offers retrofit/upgrade packages for virtually any manufacturer’s testing machine, including Amsler, Baldwin, Denison, ELE Soiltest, Instron, MTS, Mohr & Federhoff, Reihle, SATEC, Shimadzu, Tinius Olsen, and Zwick.

The company also sells grips and fixtures for all testing needs. A full catalog of ADMET universal testing machines, controllers and accessories is available at: http://www.admet.com. International distributor, partner and customer services are available at: http://www.admet.com/calibrationAndSales.htm.

ADMET products are available directly from ADMET, ADMET representatives and agents. Products meet or exceed applicable international standards, including standards issued by ASTM, BSENISO, DIN, ISO, JIS and others.

About ADMET
ADMET Inc. is based in Norwood, Mass, USA. It was founded in 1989. ADMET combines high quality products and services to deliver the most efficient and cost effective materials testing systems. Its products range from new and used universal testing frames, to software and specialized control units, and grips and fixtures. The company also retrofits electromechanical, hydraulic and digitally controlled testing machines from any manufacturer to deliver more reliable test results, simplify operations, meet international standards and integrate with data collection systems. Highly skilled engineers provide customers with personalized research and development services and support to make ADMET the most responsive materials testing equipment supplier. ADMET’s loyal customer base includes leading manufacturers, testing labs, researchers and universities in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, concrete, construction, metals, plastics, textiles and other industries. ADMET’s products are widely distributed in North America, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. ADMET can be reached at 781-769-0850 or by visiting http://www.admet.com.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

MEMS—Micro Electromechanical Systems
ASTM—American Society for Testing Materials
BSENISO—British International Organization for Standardization
DIN—Institute for Standardization
ISO—International Standards Organization
JIS—Japanese Institute of Standards

For further information:

Marc Venet
ADMET Inc.
51 Morgan Dr.
Norwood, MA 02062
781-769-0850 X13

Sandy McLaughlin
Soucy Communications Group
465 Pine St.
Lowell, MA 01851
781-898-7305

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:08 AM | Comments (0)

DPSI Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Maintenance Management Software Industry

2006 marks the 20th anniversary for DPSI, one of the earliest developers of CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Software) and EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) maintenance management software. Numerous CMMS/EAM companies have come and gone during the past two decades or have been acquired. DPSI has remained an independent company with an exclusive focus on the CMMS/EAM market.

Greensboro, NC (PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -– This year marks the 20th anniversary for DPSI™, one of the earliest developers of CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Software) and EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) software. DPSI software enables companies to decrease equipment downtime, reduce parts inventory costs, increase productivity, track detailed maintenance cost data, and provide valuable data to management. Thousands of customers use DPSI software to manage maintenance for factories, processing plants, facilities, vehicle fleets, utilities equipment, public works infrastructure, and much more.

"The CMMS/EAM software industry began in the 1970s, but grew rapidly with the advent of the personal computer in the 1980s," according to Carol Owens, President of DPSI. "With each passing year, the value of this software became more evident as computers became more powerful. Today's CMMS/EAM software products are far more powerful and sophisticated, and they've become an indispensable business tool within most industries."

Numerous CMMS/EAM software companies were started during the past two decades, but many have gone out of business or been acquired by large conglomerates. DPSI has remained an independent company, still focusing exclusively on the needs of the CMMS/EAM market and still driven by the same mission -- developing feature-rich maintenance management software at reasonable prices while offering unequaled support to customers.

The founding executive team continues to lead the company. DPSI's management team has more than 130 combined years of maintenance industry experience and more than 150 combined years of IT experience.

The company places great importance on being large enough to provide world-class software and services, yet not so large that customer relationships become impersonal. As Carl Maglio of Lands' End remarked, "I wish all of our other vendors would take care of their customers with the same dedication as DPSI." Close customer relationships also shape new product releases. The company's User Advisory Boards and customer surveys help identify desired new features. Mickey Reaves of Sonoco Corporation noted that "DPSI listens to our feedback and implements our suggestions."

DPSI customers range from small firms to large multi-site enterprises. Major customers include FedEx® Ground, Lands' End, Volvo™ Trucks, Black & Decker®, Kraft™, Coca-Cola®, Beckton-Dickinson™, Johns Hopkins University, General Electric™, Edison Mission Energy®, the City of San Diego and the U.S. Government.

2006 also marks the 20th anniversary of DPSI's first product, PMC, originally named Preventive Maintenance Control. Since then, the software has continued to evolve, becoming one of the most widely-used CMMS systems in the world. In 2001, the company released an additional product line, iMaint®, an Enterprise Asset Management system with greater capabilities than those offered by CMMS systems. DPSI and its products have won many awards, including Plant Engineering magazine's 2003 "Product of the Year" for iMaint Mobile, a module for handheld PDAs.

ABOUT DPSI
DPSI is a leading developer of Computerized Maintenance Management Software (CMMS) and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) solutions. Since 1986, the company has served more than 6,000 customers and 50,000 users in over 50 countries, including more than 400 of the Fortune 500. The company's software is used to manage maintenance for factories, processing plants, facilities, vehicle fleets, utilities equipment, public works infrastructure, and much more.

Company headquarters are in Greensboro, North Carolina. Branch offices were established in Canada in 1998. The company also has international partners and resellers in South America, Europe, Asia, Central America, the Southwest Pacific and the Middle East.

DPSI's family of software solutions includes:

PMC: A maintenance software solution for single computers and small networks. One of the most popular CMMS products in the world.

iMaint, iMaint Fleet and iMaint Online: Enterprise solutions that can be tailored to specific needs. Add-on modules are available for mobile PDAs, a Web browser interface, integration with other software, online work requests and FDA compliance.

For more information, contact DPSI's corporate office at 1-800-897-7233, or visit www.dpsi.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:07 AM | Comments (0)

Article Removed

Article has been removed at request of Trish Hamer, Account Coordinator, Delia Associates

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:06 AM | Comments (0)

Shell Launches Revitalised Variable temperature Hydraulic Oils Range

Shell lubricants companies are revitalising their range of variable temperature hydraulic oils with the introduction of two new products. A new generation of the successful Tellus T and the brand new Tellus STX will now be available alongside Tellus TX and Tellus Arctic.

(PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- Shell lubricants companies are revitalising their range of variable temperature hydraulic oils with the introduction of two new products. A new generation of the successful Tellus T and the brand new Tellus STX will now be available alongside Tellus TX and Tellus Arctic. This means operators worldwide can chose from a full range of high quality hydraulic oils to maximise performance in mobile and stationary hydraulic applications, in an even wider range of operating conditions and environments.

Eduardo Tavcar, Global Hydraulic Oils Product Manager for Shell Lubricants, commented: “Machines and applications that are regularly exposed to the outside environment are open to variable operating temperatures depending on factors such as location, time of year and start-up versus operating temperature, which can all have a significant effect on the viscosity of the hydraulic oil and related lubrication properties. The range has been developed using the latest polymer technology, which adapts to an increase or decrease in temperature to ensure minimal viscosity change.”

Shell Tellus variable temperature hydraulic oils have been designed to avoid problems related to low-performing lubricants to reduce maintenance costs, as well as providing several additional benefits during day-to-day operations. Improved equipment protection and reduced oil consumption can be achieved through the range’s high shear stability (the polymers resistance to stress, which can break the molecules and reduce the viscosity of an oil at operating temperatures), while fast start-up can be achieved through excellent low temperature performance. The range also has excellent hydrolytic stability, which reduces the negative impact of unavoidable water condensation in machinery after shutdown, helping to achieve reduced wear and corrosion. In addition, the products’ wide temperature range may also allow operators to reduce the number of hydraulic grades, with one oil being able to operate in a wide range of environments.

Eduardo continues: “The true test of a good variable temperature hydraulic oil is finding one which offers a wide temperature range as well as other key performance features such as excellent shear and hydrolytic stability. Only by choosing a product that performs well in all areas will you be able to reduce downtime and maximise productivity.

Tellus T, formulated on the next generation technology of Shell Tellus, is suitable for most machinery and the majority of conditions. Shell’s new Tellus STX is designed for operators demanding a metal free lubricant or when conditions are more extreme.

Concludes Eduardo: “It’s all a matter of careful selection. Understanding the full range of temperatures to which a hydraulic oil will be exposed is key to selecting a hydraulic oil to optimise performance. Shell’s range of variable temperature hydraulic oils ensures that operators have the ‘best value’ solution for their needs – matching performance and protection requirements with global quality and consistency.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:05 AM | Comments (0)

Thousands Of Offerings To Sell New and Used Compressors Added To IndustrialLeaders.com

A new international directory and industrial buying guide helps engineers and other industrial buyers locate manufacturers and distributors of new, used and reconditioned compressors, compressor parts and accessories.

(PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- IndustrialLeaders.com, a central New England based electronic publisher of industrial directories, announced today it launched its new and improved online buying guide and directory of manufacturers and distributors of compressors.

The directory includes a broad range of offerings from suppliers in 54 countries, including Canada, United States, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, China, India and most European Union countries.

Compressors available on the site include all major brands for nearly every application and industry, including air compressors, auto air compressor, centrifugal compressor, coil spring compressor, air compressor generator, electric air compressor, rotary screw compressor, spring compressor, reciprocating compressor, mini air compressor and natural gas compressor.

Including construction air compressor, rotary compressor, air conditioning compressor, custom-made air compressor, portable air compressor, industrial air compressor, gas compressor, used and rebuild air compressor, airbrush compressor, rotary and screw compressor, porter cable air compressor, refrigeration compressor, oil-less air compressor and piston compressor.

The directory can be accessed at, www.IndustrialLeaders.com/listings/compressors.html

According to Conrad Bailey, business director of IndustrialLeaders.com, the site will soon include a complete bidding system for companies to submit request-for-quotes directly to manufacturers and distributors of compressors. In addition, the company plans to add images and videos for buyers to view the features, benefits and applications of different brands and models.

"Buying compressors online is sometimes very frustrating because people want to see the actual product in action," says Bailey. Adding videos will help buyers get a better idea of which compressor will best meet their needs."

About IndustrialLeaders.com
IndustrialLeaders.com is a Web based industrial supply directory, and a division of 'Worldwide Industrial Marketplace,' an international network of industrial portals reaching tens of thousands of engineers, importers and technical buyers monthly.

Qualified manufacturers and suppliers of industrial products are invited to list their company free of charge at, www.IndustrialLeaders.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:04 AM | Comments (0)

Commence Corporation Presents Practices That Pay

Commence Corporation Presents Practices That Pay.

Tinton Falls, NJ (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- According to Larry Caretsky, President of Commence Corporation (www.commence.com/mfg), “In order to thrive in today’s industrial environment, characterized by intense competition, strategic sourcing contracts, customers’ pressuring for self-service, and the ongoing debate on fee-based services, industrial distributors and manufacturers need more than leading technological products or an efficient warehouse or plant to achieve long-term growth. Leading industrial organizations are looking outside of their four walls to the customer for growth ideas. Differentiating sales and marketing, the business customer-facing part of any company, is viewed as the way to achieve a competitive advantage."

In an effort to help industrial distributors and manufacturers thrive, Commence Corporation presents Practices That Pay: Leveraging Information to Achieve Industrial Selling Results, a compendium of smart practices from the leading industrial sales and marketing experts and organizations that are growing in today’s challenging environment.

Four key elements – marketing, selling, sales management, sales automation - are touted as the key to a “high-performance sales culture”. All four are critical to success, and therefore all four are addressed in this compendium including specific examples of smart practices from twelve of leading industrial distributors and manufacturers.

Commence offers industrial companies complete “Freedom Of Choice” to select the solutions and platform that best meets the business requirements of manufacturers and distributors. The comprehensive CRM Industrial application suite is available for use on premise or on-demand as a hosted service. Industrial leaders often build departmental CRM solutions with the award winning Commence Industrial CRM Framework. These choices are why so many industrial companies choose Commence as the solution for managing customer relationships. All Commence Industrial solutions support mobile or wireless connectivity and integration to back-office accounting and ERP systems.

Commence Corporation
www.commence.com/mfg/
Larry Caretsky
732-380-9100

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:03 AM | Comments (0)

aPriori CEO Azzolino Reflects on Product Cost Conflicts Between Engineering and Finance

aPriori CEO Azzolino Reflects on Product Cost Conflicts Between Engineering and Finance.

Concord, MA (PRWEB) August 28, 2006 -- In the current issue of Automation.com (www.automation.com) Frank Azzolino, CEO of aPriori Technologies discusses how MCAD and PLM have historically focused on the engineering and design aspects of product delivery. The language of engineering as spoken by MCAD and PLM is based on physical attributes of the product and technological capabilities of the software solutions used. The result is a series of conversations about features, rounds, fillets and chamfers.

The business operations focus is on financially related concerns such as margin, contribution and profit. The language of the business is time and money. It is no secret that the profit motive is what drives critical company decisions. It is also no secret that the ability for the product to achieve the expected financial goals is driven by design and manufacturing decisions that occur very early in (and continually throughout) the product delivery process.

The holy grail of ‘collaboration’ is meaningless if the parties are not speaking a common language. The ‘lingua franca’ that translates the language of engineering into the language of business is ‘cost,’ specifically, product cost.

Major PLM and MCAD providers long for acceptance and penetration outside of engineering departments at the same time the major ERP (enterprise resource planning) vendors strive to enter the engineering and product delivery arena.

In each of these application platforms, PLM and ERP, cost can be managed. On the ERP side, costs are always historical; these costs are available to be managed only after production. While it is more difficult to manage costs on the PLM side of the house, it is often potentially more valuable. The need for real- time, predictive costs are essential to allow design and manufacturing teams to avoid and eliminate costs early in the process (when critical cost-driving decisions are made.) Currently the array of MCAD, PLM, and ERP applications do not allow for the ability to generate this early cost knowledge.

The aPriori v4.0 Cost Management Software Platform provides real-time, predictive cost assessments throughout the entire product development and delivery process. aPriori v4.0 enables designers and engineers, manufacturing engineers and planners, purchasing and sourcing professionals, cost managers, and program/project management to make better decisions to reduce, avoid, and recover product costs. aPriori's solutions enable manufacturing companies to measurably reduce their Costs-of-Goods Sold (COGS) by whole percentages by identifying quantifiable savings in material, tooling, labor and overhead while evaluating alternative designs, manufacturing processes, and vendor sources.

About aPriori
Based in Concord, MA, aPriori is the technology leader providing innovative cost management solutions to the discrete manufacturing industry. aPriori’s Cost Management Software Platform enables manufacturers to better understand product cost decisions early and throughout the product lifecycle. aPriori’s Cost Management Platform empowers manufacturers to lower cost-of-goods sold (COGS), provides real-time visibility to “cost-critical” decision information, and builds critical cost knowledge to go on the business “offensive.” aPriori’s patented cost management platform allows companies to assess, control, and reduce cost of goods sold by whole percentages. The aPriori Platform truly enables “Cost Knowledge Before it Matters.”

aPriori
www.aPriori.com
John Busa
978-371-2006

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:02 AM | Comments (0)

Attention Manufacturers: The Best ALA for the Best Price

Maitake Products, Inc. (MPI), known as the supplier of high-quality standardized mushroom-extracts such as Maitake D-Fraction® and SX-Fraction®, announces that they will now supply Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) to the U.S. manufacturers.

(PRWEB) August 27, 2006 -- Maitake Products, Inc. (MPI), known as the supplier of high-quality standardized mushroom-extracts such as Maitake D-Fraction® and SX-Fraction®, announces that they will now supply Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) to the U.S. manufacturers.

MPI will be distributing the ALA made by one of the largest manufacturers of ALA in China who started its products in the early 1990's.

This Chinese Company has exported its ALA products to Japan, U.S.A., and various countries in Europe and Southeast Asia, after adjusting the formulation to meet the standard of each country, including solvent free product for its Japan clients.

ALA has been in huge demand throughout the last few years and the price per kilo once exceeded US$600.00 as the market was short in supply. However, the volatile market has now settled down and it is being traded for about half the price of those peak days.

MPI is looking forward to maintaining a stable supply of various grades of ALA, with the lowest price in the market.

For inquiry, please contact:
Masashi Ohara or Kaori Kasai
Maitake Products, Inc.
TEL: 973-470-0010 / FAX: 973-470-0017

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:01 AM | Comments (0)

Watermiser® Water Conservation Products Nominated for First Ever EPA Water Efficiency Leader Award

Watermiser®, a leader in Water Conservation Products has been nominated for the very first Water Efficiency Leader Award from the Environmental Protection Agency.

San Marcos, CA (PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Watermiser®, a leader in Water Conservation Products, has been nominated for the very first Water Efficiency Leader Award from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Since 1991, Watermiser® has developed many eco friendly water conservation products. The company’s primary purpose is to help home and business owners conserve water and save energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help protect the environment.

”There is an increasing need to promote heightened awareness of water shortages and encourage water-efficient products, says John Schommer, Co-Founder of Watermiser and inventor of several unique and highly effective water conservation products, including the original, patented Watermiser® Waterbroom.

The Watermiser® Waterbroom is great for cleaning Driveways, Sidewalks, Parking Lots, Tennis Courts, Garage Floors and almost any other hardscape. No plugs or motors and so easy anyone can use it. Because the Watermiser® Waterbroom uses a combination of water and air to clean, all hard surfaces get much cleaner with virtually no runoff. When used properly, the Waterbroom uses less than a tablespoon and a half of water for every square foot that it cleans. In a recent test, Waterbrooms were implemented at the Anaheim Convention Center, saving 4 million gallons of water per year while reducing washdown time by 75%, and practicaly eliminating runoff.

Watermiser’s innovative device called the Watermiser Flow Control Valve is so effective it was recently recognized by the Build It Green and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) programs. Flow Control Valves have been ordered and installed by hotels, apartments, schools, department stores and restaurants; saving approximately 20% on the water and sewer bill with additional savings for energy resulting in a very short payback period.

Owners Kathy and John Schommer are dedicated to the conservation, efficient use, and preservation of America’s most vital resource; a clean, reliable, and plentiful water supply. More information can be found on the company website at www.watermiser.com or by calling 760-752-9944. All Watermiser products are proudly MADE IN THE USA.

Recent and Upcoming Events

Beverly Hills Conservation Day – April 23

National Hardware Show in Las Vegas in May 9, 10 & 11

New Jersey Sanitation Supply Association Show My 3 & 4

Southern California Home & Garden Show at the Anaheim Convention Center, which runs from 8/19/06 thru 9/27/06

International Sanitation Supply Association - Interclean USA 2006 Show in Chicago October 4-7.

Monte Vista Water District Water Fair – Oct. 14

Laughlin, NV Home Show - Oct. 6-8.

Palm Springs Home Show – Dec. 1, 2 & 3

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:01 AM | Comments (0)

Full Ceramic and Ceramic Hybrid Bearings by Boca Bearings

Boca Bearings is proud to announce their new expanded range of Full Ceramic and Ceramic Hybrid ball bearings. Ceramic bearings are made of a highly manufactured ceramic, similar to the heat absorbing, super resilient tiles on the Space Shuttle. Ceramic is the perfect material for any application seeking to achieve higher RPM’s, reduce overall weight or for extremely harsh environments where high temperatures and corrosive substances are present.

Delray Beach, FL (PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Boca Bearings is proud to announce their new expanded range of Full Ceramic and Ceramic Hybrid ball bearings. Ceramic bearings are made of a highly manufactured ceramic, similar to the heat absorbing, super resilient tiles on the Space Shuttle. Ceramic is the perfect material for any application seeking to achieve higher RPM’s, reduce overall weight or for extremely harsh environments where high temperatures and corrosive substances are present.

Ceramic silicon nitride balls, for example, exhibit much greater hardness than steel balls resulting in at least 10 times greater ball life due to the ability to hold the surface finish longer. The ball has dramatically smoother surface properties than the best steel ball resulting in less friction between the balls and bearing race surfaces. Thermal properties are also dramatically improved over steel balls resulting in less heat build up at high speeds. Ceramic has 35 percent less thermal expansion, 50 percent less thermal conductivity, are lighter weight and are non-corrosive.

Similarly, the inner and outer races of antifriction bearings often become frosted, fluted or can get a corrugated pattern imprinted on them. These are not mechanical scars, but are due to electromagnetic forces and can lead to bearing failure. They are usually found in modern systems that routinely feature pulse-modulated adjustable-speed motors and inverters with high switching frequencies and short rise times. The best solution substitutes ceramic hybrid bearings for the more traditional, chrome steel counterparts to eliminate scarring and also run cooler due to less micro-weld adhesion

Suitable applications include cryo-pumps, medical devices, semiconductors, machine tools, turbine flow meters, food processing equipment, robotics and optics. The Boca Bearing Company stocks a full range of ceramic balls, ceramic hybrid bearings and full ceramic bearings. With over 2,500 different bearing sizes and well over two million bearings in stock, The Boca Bearing Company offers the largest stock of replacement bearings for all industrial and specialty applications. Boca Bearings has consistently led the industry in bringing advanced technologies to the industrial marketplace.

Contact:
Clara Baron
www.bocabearings.com
(800) 332-3256
High Res Image:
http://www.bocabearings.com/images/bearing_group.zip

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:00 AM | Comments (0)

Lumbergear Software Shakes Lumber and Wood Products Industry

Unique Data Solutions, a premiere provider of innovative lumber software solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the lumber and wood products industry, announces the availability of Lumbergear, an all-in-one lumber business software for wholesalers, sawmills, brokers and wood product manufacturers. Award-winning Lumbergear features a powerful, integrated system that allows for easy lumber inventory tracking and costing information, lumber truckload and retail sales, customer order fulfillment and invoicing, purchasing, production and remanufacturing, shipping, receiving, graphs, analysis, integrated reporting functions and much more. Affordable, customizable and easy to use, Lumbergear provides all the advantages of a custom lumber software system at an affordable price.

La Crosse, WI (PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Unique Data Solutions, a premiere provider of innovative lumber software solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the lumber and wood products industry, announces the availability of Lumbergear, an all-in-one lumber business software for lumber wholesalers, sawmills, brokers and wood product manufacturers. Award-winning Lumbergear features a powerful, integrated system that allows for easy lumber inventory tracking and costing information, lumber truckload and retail sales, customer order fulfillment and invoicing, purchasing, production and remanufacturing, shipping, receiving, graphs, analysis, integrated reporting functions and much more.

Wholesale hardwood and softwood lumber companies, lumber yards, sawmills, brokers, dimension and wood products manufacturers can now increase business efficiency, company profits and the value of their company operations with Lumbergear, an affordable, powerful, and easy-to-use software (www.lumbergear.com). Inspired by lumber companies, Unique Data Solutions, a member of the North American Wholesale Lumber Association, developed Lumbergear to work in a real lumber working environment after years of research, development and consultation with real lumber companies.

The Lumbergear advantage is that it is the all-in-one lumber software system for small and midsize companies. Lumbergear has modules for lumber inventory management, sales, order fulfillment, shipping and receiving, bar-coding, remanufacturing, invoicing, logistics, procurement, and contact management. The security features are user friendly, allowing managers to perform audit trails on employees and restrict access to system modules..

To automate the billing process, Lumbergear features powerful integration with accounting software, including Great Plains Dynamics, Peachtree Accounting and Intuit’s QuickBooks.

Lumbergear safeguards your initial investment in accounting software because you can easily transfer Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable and General Ledger to your accounting system. Lumbergear also runs on Microsoft technology, integrates with the Microsoft® Office System and is powered by Microsoft SQL Server. Users have the ability to quickly export information from Lumbergear in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, HTML, and text files.

The integrated features of Lumbergear make it possible for lumber and wood product companies to have better control over their business information. The advanced features of Lumbergear make it easy to assemble mixed truckloads, talk to production and warehouse in real-time, and have the ability to ship products the same day that they are ordered. Mac Donald and Owen Lumber Company is one of the companies that have benefited from the innovative and cost effective features of Lumbergear. Within a year after fully implementing Lumbergear in their facilities, Mac Donald and Owen Lumber Company was able to achieve impressive sales and profitability thereby ranking among the nations 100 fastest growing wood companies by Wood and Wood Products Magazine.

Affordable, customizable and easy to use, Lumbergear provides all the advantages of a custom lumber software system at an affordable price.

For more information on Lumbergear, please visit www.lumbergear.com or www.udatasolutions.com.

About Lumbergear

Lumbergear, provided by Unique Data Solutions, is a business software system geared towards the lumber and wood products industry. Founded in 2002, Unique Data Solutions is an information systems solution provider delivering innovative technology solutions to small and midsize companies.

Trademarks referenced in this news release are the property of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:58 AM | Comments (0)

Amvic Launches the New AmDeck Floor & Roof Construction System

Amvic Building System, leaders in Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction technology, introduce the NEW AmDeck Floor/Roof system. From a company known for innovation, the Amvic system utilizes lightweight, standardized units ideally suited for construction versatility. This cost effective and environmentally friendly system boasts superior strength, built in continuous thermal insulation and noise reduction features.

Toronto, Ontario (PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Amvic Building System (www.amvicsystem.com) recently launched the innovative NEW AmDeck TM Floor & Roof System that is unmatched in the construction industry. The system is perfectly suited for use with Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction (www.amvicsystem.com/amvicicf.aspx), but can be used independently with other wall systems. Traditional “stick-frame” construction is rapidly being replaced worldwide with ICF as it is durable, cost effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

AmDeck TM implements full 10 inch deep lightweight steel joists to support construction loads. As a result, the shoring requirements are minimized and can be placed up to 20 feet on center. This is 4 times less than the shoring required for competing products which results in significant cost savings.

One-way concrete floor/roof joists formed with this system can span approximately 30-35 feet. Spans greater than 40 feet can also be easily achieved using higher strength concrete and post-tensioned reinforcing cable strands.

Unlike many competing products, the Amvic system is assembled using small, standardized, lightweight modular units. This makes the system much easier to use and handle without compromising superior strength of construction. The Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) used in the decking system also provides built-in continuous thermal insulation and reduces noise travel from one storey to another.

Overall, the system is very well engineered and easy to use thus ensuring design flexibility and construction versatility. For more information please call 1 877-470-9991 or visit the website at www.amvicsystem.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:57 AM | Comments (0)

Goldratt Consulting Selects Customer Insight Group to Create Global Customer Relationship-Marketing Program

Goldratt Consulting Ltd, founded by best-selling author Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt, has selected Customer Insight Group, Inc. to create a global customer relationship-marketing strategy.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Goldratt Consulting Ltd, founded by best-selling author Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt, has selected Customer Insight Group, Inc. to create a global customer relationship-marketing strategy.

Dr. Goldratt introduced Theory of Constraints (TOC) in his best-selling book, The Goal, which has sold over 4 million copies worldwide. Dr. Goldratt’s newest strategic innovation, called Viable Vision, is a simple yet comprehensive procedure that promises significant financial results. Says Dr. Goldratt, “When I do a Viable Vision analysis with a company, I am satisfied only when I see how it can, in less than four years, grow net profits to be equal to current net sales.”

Customer Insight Group has been charged to develop the marketing strategies and tactics that will enable Goldratt Consulting to foster better relationships with customers, consultancies and business partners. We are testing offers, channels of communication and synchronized of messages to gather insight and optimize customer performance.

The comprehensive relationship-marketing program outlines a clearly defined strategy that is supported by practical, measurable multi-channel programs.

“Goldratt Consulting wanted to create high-impact customer-based business initiatives, and they needed one entity to be responsible for creation and implementation,” notes Sallie Burnett, President and CEO of Customer Insight Group. “There is no greater recognition than being chosen by a company known for its strategic approach to achieving performance breakthroughs. Goldratt Consulting’s selection of Customer Insight Group emphasizes our singular focus on helping companies develop profitable customer relationships”.

“Forming these relationships is key to Goldratt Consulting’s success,” said Dr. Lisa Lang, Global Marketing Director. “This marketing plan will enable us to reach out and further our goal of helping business owners substantially increase their profitability.”

Goldratt Consulting conducts Viable Vision offers worldwide, with upcoming events scheduled in Ontario, Mexico, Brazil and the United States. The global Viable Vision Offer Event schedule is available online at www.goldrattconsulting.com.

About Goldratt Consulting
Goldratt Consulting Ltd. is a worldwide leader in management consulting services. Its founder, Dr. Goldratt, is an Israeli physicist, inventor, and philosopher whose unconventional approach to business management has made him one of the most sought-after consultants in the world today. He has applied his theories to corporations including General Motors, Ford, Procter & Gamble, and AT&T. Dr. Goldratt is the author of several business novels, including The Goal, It’s Not Luck, Critical Chain, and Necessary But Not Sufficient.

About Customer Insight Group
Customer Insight Group is a strategic marketing firm helping companies develop and execute high-performing acquisition, loyalty, upgrade, and retention programs by leveraging customer behavioral insights. Integrated strategic, analytic, creative services support innovative customer-centric programs that help companies grow profitable, long-term relationships with their customers. Explore how Customer Insight Group makes a difference for such clients as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Edwin Watt’s Golf, The Bon Ton Stores, Inc. and Network Affiliates by visiting customerinsightgroup.com

Contact Information:
Sallie Burnett
Customer Insight Group, Inc.
303.422.9758

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:57 AM | Comments (0)

20-20 Technologies Further Develops its Relationship with Stiles Machinery Both Companies Join Forces to Offer a Comprehensive Manufacturing Solutions Portfolio

Stiles Machinery, Inc. and 20-20 Technologies Inc. (TSX: TWT), a world leader in 3D design and sales software, computer-aided design and manufacturing solutions for the interior design product industries, today announced their joint promotion of 20-20’s extended manufacturing solutions at IWF.

(PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Stiles Machinery, Inc. and 20-20 Technologies Inc. (TSX: TWT), a world leader in 3D design and sales software, computer-aided design and manufacturing solutions for the interior design product industries, today announced their joint promotion of 20-20’s extended manufacturing solutions at IWF.

Leveraging its recent acquisitions, 20-20 brings to the woodworking industry proven leading edge Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solutions for engineer-to-order (ETO) and project-based manufacturers in the woodworking industry.

20-20 and Stiles, North America’s largest woodworking machinery company, will jointly promote the 20-20 Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and 20-20 BuildRite solutions, alongside Stiles’ Cut Rite and Building Blocks software, as a comprehensive combination of hardware, software and consulting services.

“The solutions from 20-20 present additional opportunities for Stiles customers since they complement our own software solutions,” said Jerry McCall, Product Group Manager of Stiles Software.

“We at Stiles believe that our customers and prospective customers should embrace the solutions put together by Stiles, the leading provider of woodworking machinery and of related software services and 20-20, the leading software provider in the kitchen, office, closet, woodworking and furniture industries, so that our shared customers can benefit from our two companies working together on improving their productivity,” added Dave Rothwell, Executive Vice President of Stiles.

“20-20 has developed a leadership position in the mass-customization and shop-floor execution arena with more than 35 advanced manufacturing solutions now implemented in the kitchen cabinet and office furniture industry in North America. Stiles and 20-20 will continue to work together delivering integrated software solutions that address the spectrum of manufacturing needs in terms of automation,” said Klaus Gueniker, Vice President Manufacturing Solutions for 20-20.

“Our longstanding relationship with Stiles continues to yield benefits for our shared customers,” indicated Jean Mignault, 20-20’s CEO. “The integration work between the 20-20 and the Stiles products have been based on the WINStep protocols,” added Jean Mignault, also President of the WINStep Association.

DFM Solution - based on 20-20 Design, 20-20 BuildRite & Stiles CutRite
The DFM Solution is the first solution for our industries where a single data set is used at the Point-of-Sales as well as in the Manufacturing Environment. This advanced technology is based upon 20-20 Design 8.0. The extracted manufacturing bills of materials are provided from 20-20 DFM Catalogs. Manufacturing integration is supported by the 20-20 BuildRite and Stiles Cut-Rite integration.

Currently several projects are under way and the solution is proving out in the manufacturing environment. This 20-20 DFM Pro solution is offered only on a project basis, with 20-20 and Stiles performing a detailed business analysis of the customer needs and developing clear specifications and precise data creation quotes before undertaking any such project.

About 20-20 Technologies Inc.
20-20 Technologies is the world's leading provider of computer-aided design, sales software and manufacturing solutions tailored for the interior design industry. 20-20 offers proprietary end-to-end solutions, integrating the entire design, sales, supply chain and manufacturing processes. The Company offers dealers and retailers state-of-the-art design, specification, photo-realistic 3D rendering and management software for configurable and standalone products in the residential and commercial interior design markets. 20-20's solutions include an integration platform between sales and manufacturing and world leading enterprise resource planning systems, as well as computer-aided engineering and shop floor automation software. 20-20's software is sold in more than 100 countries and used at over 30,000 points of sale worldwide. 20-20 now has catalog data for close to 1,000 manufacturers throughout the world. 20-20 is a publicly traded company (TWT) on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).

About Stiles Machinery
Stiles Machinery is the world’s largest distributor of high-quality woodworking and panel processing machinery. Established in 1965, Stiles, and its Altendorf America and Holzma U.S. divisions, offer edge processing equipment, CNC machining centers, sliding table saws, panel saws, sanders, veneering, finishing and material-handling equipment and software. Stiles Machinery is headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI and has branch offices in High Point and Gastonia, NC; Irving, TX; and Ontario, Canada.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made or incorporated by reference in this press release may constitute "forward-looking" statements, within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors (including but not limited to, the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form) which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what we believe are reasonable assumptions, we cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

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

20-20 Technologies Offers to the Woodworking Industry its Comprehensive Manufacturing Solutions Portfolio

Leveraging its recent acquisitions, including that of Virtual Systems International Inc., 20-20 provides to its customers proven leading edge Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solutions for engineer-to-order (ETO) and project-based manufacturers in the woodworking industry.

(PRWEB) August 26, 2006 -- Leveraging its recent acquisitions, including that of Virtual Systems International Inc., 20-20 provides to its customers proven leading edge Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solutions for engineer-to-order (ETO) and project-based manufacturers in the woodworking industry.

“20-20 has developed a leadership position in the mass-customization and shop-floor execution arena with more than 35 advanced solutions now implemented in the kitchen cabinet and office furniture industry in North America. 20-20 will continue to deliver integrated software solutions that fully cover the entire spectrum of manufacturing needs in terms of automation,” said Klaus Gueniker, Vice President Manufacturing Solutions for 20-20.

“20-20 Technologies is now the worldwide leader in manufacturing solutions for its targeted industries with a customer base of more than 240 manufacturers,” added Jean Mignault, CEO of 20-20 Technologies

Manufacturing Solutions now offered by 20-20 Technologies:

Mass-Customization & Shop-Floor Execution Solution - based on inSight
inSight 4.0 is our enterprise level manufacturing system for the demand driven manufacturing business. Its superior engineering automation facilities as well as its 2nd generation advanced shop-floor execution system has made it the choice product for the advanced and innovative kitchen cabinet and office furniture companies in North America. Dynamic Product Data creation at the time of order entry, a native integration to our Point-of-Sales products for the Kitchen and Office Furniture industry, is now available to seamlessly connect 20-20 Design, 20-20 Office, 20-20 Giza, 20-20 CAP and 20-20 Design Express with inSight.

The result is a ‘Total System Solution – from Sales to Manufacturing’ delivered by 20-20.

Repetitive Manufacturing Solution - based on Prod Manager and 20-20 CAD
ProdManager is an innovative enterprise level manufacturing solution for the repetitive manufacturer that also provides order specific custom cabinets. If the production requires advanced stock management at the finished good or component level, this proven solution is favored by our customers. We have kitchen, residential, hospitality and restaurant furniture manufacturers amongst our existing clients.

One of the unique features of this solution is the product data generation process. 20-20 CAD, our industry specific engineering tool, provides natively the bill of materials, AutoCAD-part & assembly drawings as well CNC programs based on GenPOST. All product data is published from the engineering model and no re-entering of product data into the manufacturing system is required. In addition, the graphic model from 20-20 CAD can be published to a 20-20 Design catalog.

To further extend the products into the marketplace, a tight integration to 20-20 Design is supported on the catalog and the order processing level.

DFM Solution - based on 20-20 Design, 20-20 BuildRite & Stiles CutRite
The DFM Solution is the first solution for our industries where a single data set is used at the Point-of-Sales as well as in the Manufacturing Environment. This advanced technology is based upon 20-20 Design 8.0. The extracted manufacturing bills of materials are provided from 20-20 DFM Catalogs. Manufacturing integration is supported by the 20-20 BuildRite and Stiles Cut-Rite integration.

Currently several projects are under way and the solution is proving out in the manufacturing environment. This 20-20 DFM Pro solution is offered only on a project basis, with 20-20 and Stiles performing a detailed business analysis of the customer needs and developing clear specifications and precise data creation quotes before undertaking any such project.

About 20-20 Technologies Inc.
20-20 Technologies is the world's leading provider of computer-aided design, sales software and manufacturing solutions tailored for the interior design industry. 20-20 offers proprietary end-to-end solutions, integrating the entire design, sales, supply chain and manufacturing processes. The Company offers dealers and retailers state-of-the-art design, specification, photo-realistic 3D rendering and management software for configurable and standalone products in the residential and commercial interior design markets. 20-20's solutions include an integration platform between sales and manufacturing and world leading enterprise resource planning systems, as well as computer-aided engineering and shop floor automation software. 20-20's software is sold in more than 100 countries and used at over 30,000 points of sale worldwide. 20-20 now has catalog data for close to 1,000 manufacturers throughout the world. 20-20 is a publicly traded company (TWT) on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made or incorporated by reference in this press release may constitute "forward-looking" statements, within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors (including but not limited to, the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form) which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what we believe are reasonable assumptions, we cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:53 AM | Comments (0)

August 25, 2006

World Renowned Author and Consultant Donald Kirkpatrick Forms Strategic Partnership With Integrated Training Content Provider Majorium

Majorium, an integrated training content provider and Donald L. Kirkpatrick, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University Of Wisconsin announced the formation of an exclusive strategic partnership to deliver value to corporate training departments.

Stevens Point, WI (PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -- Majorium, an integrated training content provider and Donald L. Kirkpatrick, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University Of Wisconsin announced the formation of an exclusive strategic partnership to deliver value to corporate training departments by assisting them to achieve all four levels of training as cited by Dr Kirkpatrick's theories.

Dr. Kirkpatrick is the author of over twenty books on corporate training, including "Evaluating Training Programs: The Four Levels," which is used all over the world as the standard for evaluation.

Dr. Kirkpatrick is a Past President of the American Society for Training And Development (ASTD) and a member of Training magazine's "HRD Hall Of Fame".

At the 2004 ASTD National Conference, Dr. Kirkpatrick was given the "Lifetime Achievement Award in Workplace Learning and Performance." Only one award is given each year. The first recipient was Peter Drucker in 1998.

Dr. Kirkpatrick is the most often quoted experts on corporate training and is considered by many in the training industry to be "the father of corporate training."

Majorium is the brand name marketed by the American Management Development Group, Inc. It is a single source provider of integrated corporate training programs. It has an extensive library of training components and courseware that corporations can choose to create customized training programs. Majorium has just completed the development of a program in business conduct and ethics for ADP to train their workforce. The majority of its customers are from the Fortune 1000 including Trane, American Standard and Stora Enso. As a single source provider of integrated training, Majorium does not conduct the training, but provides the training tools that corporate trainers can use. Dr. Bednarz stated, " At Majorium, we don’t do the training, we improve the training for our customers with superior content and instructional design that they use to deliver their own training. This not only saves companies money, but also dramatically improves the results companies obtain from their training. Majorium is on the right side of all trends that see companies increasingly seeking to reduce costs, while receiving value from their training. As a company that can deliver by generating and documenting training results, we have caught many people’s attention."

Dr. Donald Kirkpatrick has partnered with Majorium to help design evaluation forms and procedures for evaluating training on all levels. In addition, he will monitor the results of all evaluations and will assist in developing reports for customers, top management and other interested parties. This partnership provides companies the opportunity to maximize the results of using Majorium courseware. According to Dr. Kirkpatrick, "Majorium’s materials are all professionally done and provide complete and practical help for trainers who can do the delivery. ... It has a unique way of providing practical training at a very reasonable price." Dr. Bednarz observed, " Dr. Kirkpatrick gives Majorium immediate credibility as an emerging company. He recognized the synergy between our products and his training theories that are world renown. He immediately observed there was match between the two of us."

Companies interested in discovering more about the combined services of Donald Kirkpatrick and Majorium can contact Jane Jansch at 800.654.4935.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:43 AM | Comments (0)

National Science Foundation Awards Emcien Emerging Opportunities Grant

"Today, parts forecasting is done in the absence of configuration level product forecasting. Since products are not modular in terms of the option choices, it is not possible to do accurate parts forecasting," explained Roy Marsten, Emcien’s Founder and Chief Scientist. "The result is too much parts inventory and shortages of the right parts. The financial outcome of the excess inventory is poor asset utilization; the impact of parts shortages is operational disruptions, poor customer service and potential revenue loss."

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -- National Science Foundation (NSF) has validated the timely nature of Emcien’s solution by granting an award under the Emerging Opportunities Program. The Emerging Opportunities (EO) topic is designed to enhance the ability of the NSF to support unique and timely business opportunities enabled by the deployment of advanced technology.

"Today, parts forecasting is done in the absence of configuration level product forecasting. Since products are not modular in terms of the option choices, it is not possible to do accurate parts forecasting," explained Roy Marsten, Emcien’s Founder and Chief Scientist. "The result is too much parts inventory and shortages of the right parts. The financial outcome of the excess inventory is poor asset utilization; the impact of parts shortages is operational disruptions, poor customer service and potential revenue loss".

Fixed products have virtually disappeared in favor of configurable products, due to the requirements of mass customization and competitive pressure for customer selectable features and options. This leads to a large number of product configurations or product proliferation. Product proliferation creates challenges across the entire supply chain from planning and sourcing to execution and customer order fulfillment. This burden is called Product Complexity. Emcien offers a sustainable software solution suite to address the challenges due to product complexity across the enterprise.

"Configuration volatility has become a way a life due to the move towards configurable products, " states Russ Caldwell, Emcien’s Chief Technology Officer. Configuration volatility is the period-to-period fluctuation of the configuration content (features and options) being ordered by customers. "Companies today are struggling due to the lack of sustainable solutions to incorporate product this volatility into their current business processes. Forecasting parts is one of the many challenges due to configuration volatility. Emcien offers companies a sustainable solution that integrates with ease into their existing systems -- allowing them to deal with configuration volatility as a part of business process."

"We are very honored to be recognized by NSF for the value that Emcien is delivering by using state-of-the-art technology to solve a problem that is choking the profit out of companies," added Marsten. "Emcien is delivering millions of dollars in cost savings due to the value of implementing our solutions."

About Emcien, Inc.
Emcien, the pioneer in Product Variant Optimization, enables companies to integrate product variety into manufacturing planning and execution. Emcien software helps companies address issues surrounding product variants, positively impacting product cost, inventory levels and turns, and customer lead-time. Emcien’s solutions are built on patent-pending product description and optimization technology based on more than 12 years of research started at Georgia Tech and developed through industry partnerships. Emcien is a privately held company headquartered in Atlanta, GA, and an Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC) member company. Learn more at www.emcien.com.
Emcien Contact

Media Relations
404.920.1990
404.385.6092 /fax

About the National Science Foundation
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering, with an annual budget of nearly $5.47 billion. NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 universities and institutions. Each year, NSF receives about 40,000 competitive requests for funding, and makes about 11,000 new funding awards.

About the ATDC: Georgia Institute of Technology’s Advanced Technology Development Center is a nationally recognized science and technology incubator that helps Georgia entrepreneurs launch and build successful companies, providing strategic business advice and connecting its member companies to the people and resources they need to succeed. More than 100 companies have emerged from the ATDC, including publicly traded firms such as MindSpring Enterprises -- now part of EarthLink.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:42 AM | Comments (0)

MessageSolution Advances Its Innovative Leadership Position In Compliance Email Archiving and Storage Management With The MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite 4.0 Release

MessageSolution Inc., the pioneer in developing and providing email and instant message archiving, legal search, electronic discovery, and storage management for enterprises to achieve the regulatory compliance, today released its Enterprise Email Archiving Suite 4.0, with its Worldwide Partner Program In expanding global business development

Philadelphia, PA and Castro Valley, CA (PRWEB) July 25, 2006 -- MessageSolution, Inc. the leading technology innovator in Email Archiving, Information Retention, Storage Management, Email Compliance and Litigation Support, today announced its release of MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite 4.0, upon completion of 2006 Summer Email Archiving Seminars Co-Sponsored with TechTarget, Symantec, Computer Associates, EMC, and other leading email archiving solution providers.

The enhanced new release includes key features such as the seamless integration with MSFT Exchange, Lotus Notes Domino, Centera storage devices, PST File Manager, and the Windows/Linux multi-platform operating system support.

"While working with enterprise customers we often encounter the multi-platform messaging environment. There are cases that the companies are running MSFT Exchange servers and Lotus Notes Domino simultaneously for different user groups, or for groups in various geographic locations. There are enterprises using Exchange and other Linux based email server such as Postfix, Sendmail, or GroupWise at same time. Normally the cross-platform messaging environments are caused either by transition of one platform to another, or by companies merging and acquisition activities. MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite 4.0 is the answer to support these different email servers seamlessly and simultaneously on various operating platforms, and to assist the enterprise customers to implement the email archiving solution to achieve compliance immediately and to meet litigation and storage requirements without delay, often time the delay caused by changing platforms and messaging environment," said Jeff Liang, the CTO of MessageSolution, Inc. "MessageSolution EEA Suite 4.0 addresses the complex messaging issues with its open standard architecture and the capability of delivering 'One Solution For All Platforms' to facilitate the digital archiving and electronic discovery functions with all major email servers in the market. With the ultimate flexibility, compatibility, and massive scalability, EEA Suite 4.0 is the All-In-One solution to support all messaging platforms, and to deliver enterprise customers the ultimate protection and the highest ROI on their investment in email archiving and storage software solutions in today's ever-changing IT environment."

About MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite 4.0:
By moving archived emails onto the MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite, the industry-leading on-site email archiving software solution, the enterprise customers can significantly reduce the cost and complexity of the primary email storage and email application infrastructure while ensuring compliance and the immediate access to the email and attachment data from a preferred email client. With less data on the email servers, the corporate messaging systems become highly efficient to manage.

MessageSolution EEA product family includes two main versions, EEA Suite and EEA Express. The large size enterprises often select EEA Suite thanks to its comprehensive feature-set and the seamless integration with MSFT Outlook, Lotus Notes Domino, or its compatibility with the native Linux OS support; while the medium size organizations chose EEA Express version for its sufficient compliance archiving and storage functionalities, along with its competitive pricing offered.

Main Modules and Features in MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Suite (EEA Suite):

■ EEA Compliance
■ EEA Web-Based Search
■ EEA StorageVault
■ EEA Web-Based DataDiscovery
■ EEA Supervisor
■ Outlook Integration
■ Lotus Notes Domino Integration
■ EMC Centera Integration
■ Native Linux OS Compatible
■ PST File Manager

Main modules & Features in MessageSolution Enterprise Email Archiving Express (EEA Express):

■ EEA Compliance
■ EEA Web-Based Search
■ EEA StorageVault
■ EEA Web-Based DataDiscovery
■ EEA Supervisor
■ PST File Manager

About MessageSolution:
Based in Silicon Valley, California, MessageSolution is the leading provider in email and instant message archiving, compliance, and content storage management. MessageSolution helps enterprises and government agencies to mitigate risk, reduce costs, and optimize server performance while complying with legal, regulatory and corporate policy. MessageSolution's technologies enable organizations to capture, preserve and access unstructured emails, attachments, files and other electronic records. MessageSolution's email archiving systems are available as onsite software applications, and include a broad set of professional services and integration support. Since its inception, MessageSolution's products successfully serve a broad range of companies in different industries, including financial, health care, educational, government agencies and non-profit organizations worldwide.

MessageSolution Inc. is actively working with partners worldwide to expand its business presence. Please contact e-mail protected from spam bots for more information on MessageSolution Worldwide Partner Program.

For more detail information, visit http://www.messagesolution.com.

***

IBM is a registered trademark of IBM Corporation in the United States, other countries or both. Lotus Notes is a trademark or registered trademark of Lotus Development Corporation and/or IBM Corporation in the United States, other countries or both. Other company product and service names may be trademarks or service marks of others. Microsoft, Microsoft Exchange, Outlook are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation in the United States, other countries or both. EMC Centera is a trademark or registered trademark of EMC Corporation in the United States, other countries or both.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:41 AM | Comments (0)

The First US Vietnam Economic & Trade Cooperation Conference in Ha Noi, Vietnam

To welcome President Bush's visit in Vietnam, a special US Vietnam Economic & Trade Conference/Fair will be held in Ha Noi from Nov. 6 to 9, 2006.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -- Under the sponsorship of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, various Ministries, Ha Noi People Committee, the US Embassy in Vietnam, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, a First Vietnam-US Economic & Trade Cooperation Fair is scheduled from Nov. 6th to 9th, 2006 in Ha Noi, the Capital City of Vietnam.

This is an important event to welcome the visit of President George W. Bush to Vietnam during the APEC CEO Summit 2006. Under the theme “Vietnam: Potential Investment Opportunities,” the Fair will introduce a wide range of exhibits in various fields of heavy industry, light industry, processing industry, construction, telecommunication, agriculture, fishery, tourism, IT, Insurance, banking, financing ... American companies can also rent an exhibition booth at the Fair to market their products/services. In addition, a number of conferences, seminars and networking sessions will be hosted by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry to facilitate business cooperation between Vietnamese and American companies.

As the fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s bilateral trade with the US totaled more than $7.8 billion last year, a five-fold increase since the Bilateral Trade Agreement took effect in 2001, which removed high tariff and other trade barriers between the US and Vietnam. Moreover, Vietnam’s World Trade Organization ascension will lead into great access for US companies’ products and services in the Vietnamese market.

Vietnam Resource Group, LLC (www.vietgroup.net), a private consulting firm based in Washington DC, has been appointed by Viet Promotion Co., the event organizer, to promote the event in the USA and to coordinate a US Trade & Investment Mission to Vietnam from Nov. 4th to 15th, 2006, which is supported by the US Vietnam Chamber of Commerce (www.usvnchamber.org). Mission participants will also be introduced to various investment projects located in selected major cities/provinces in Vietnam: Ha Noi, Quang Ninh, Da Nang, Nha Trang, HCM City and Dong Nai province.

For more information, please contact:
Vietnam Resource Group, LLC http://www.vietgroup.net
Trung Trinh, Managing Partner 202-271-8200
Bill Benton, Director/West Coast 510-219-0637

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:40 AM | Comments (0)

Bringing Fun Back into Safety Training

Boredom in the classroom is something people do everyday, but when dealing with the issue of safety, dozing instead of learning can end up being a matter of life or death.

(PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -- Designed to take the monotony out of classroom based Health and Safety training, a new suite of EazySafe Presenter products using the animated character “Sam the Safety Man”, have just been launched for both the UK and Irish marketplaces.

One of Europe’s leading experts in Health and Safety training, Phoenix Safety has spent the past 12 months researching and developing a series of highly entertaining and student friendly training modules. The result of this R&D is a suite of presentations specifically designed for Health and Safety instructors. Over 20 different courses have been developed which include full moving animations, sound and the facility for the instructor to tailor course content to suit their individual requirements.

CEO, Sean Fennell is convinced that the future of learning lies in stimulating the audience and ensuring maximum information retention, “Extensive market research was conducted among the thousands of students who come through our facilities each year. The results showed that students wanted more fun, stimulation and higher standards in the presentation material”

“Our customers are very excited about these new products with over 30 companies now providing their students with a fresh approach to safety education, these companies can now expect to see significant improvements in the levels of safety awareness in the workplace”, he said.

As well as enhancing the level of knowledge retention, trainers themselves can benefit from time savings and a more professional image to their training. Many of the delicate subjects such as Sexual Harassment and Bullying in the Workplace can be addressed in a more relaxed environment for employees.

One of the most important aspects to delivering safety training is to ensure a balance of material presented to students. For example, over emphasis of legislation is a sure-fire way to put your students to sleep. Keeping your material fresh and engaging is the key to maintaining student’s attention. Safety trainer’s need to understand the changing demands of the learning environment and it is no longer acceptable to produce stale and uninteresting content.

Written by IOSH qualified safety experts EazySafe Presenter is currently available in English for UK or Irish legislation. Plans are currently in place to launch a French version with other country rollouts over the coming months.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:39 AM | Comments (0)

20-20 Technologies Redefines Enterprise Software for the Woodworking Industry

20-20 Technologies’ Manufacturing Group unveiled today the next generation of an unparalleled portfolio of proven industry software solutions. The new product offering ranges from enterprise software for Mass Customization and Shop Floor Automation to solutions for Repetitive Manufacturing.

(PRWEB) August 25, 2006 -- 20-20 Technologies’ Manufacturing Group unveiled today the next generation of an unparalleled portfolio of proven industry software solutions. The new product offering ranges from enterprise software for Mass Customization and Shop Floor Automation to solutions for Repetitive Manufacturing.

“Bridging technology solutions for the future of manufacturing is the key theme for our participation in this year’s IWF,” said Jean Mignault, CEO of 20-20 Technologies. “Our ability to offer proven industry applications for our customers’ sales and manufacturing software needs – this is what distinguishes us from others,” he added.

With more than 50 North American customers in the kitchen, office and retail furniture industries, 20-20 Technologies has emerged as a market leader for industry specific ERP (Enterprise resource Planning) and EOM (Enterprise Operation Management ) solutions.

“The IWF show is a great opportunity for us to share with the industry the first successes of our development teams’ collaborative effort to establish a data exchange between point-of-sale and point-of-manufacturing,” said Klaus Gueniker, VP of Manufacturing Solution and founder of Virtual Systems.

Virtual Systems, recently acquired by 20-20 Technologies, is the North American pioneer of Engineering Automation and Shop Floor Automation.
“The extension of enterprise software by natively integrating to sales and design systems at the point-of-sale is one of our main goals,” added Mr. Gueniker.

20-20 Technologies’ staff will demonstrate its latest software developments at this year’s IWF in Atlanta, August 23 – 26th, 2006 from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors will find the 20-20 Technologies’ staff at booth # 8201 Section C1-2 and Section B1 booth # 4563.

About 20-20 Technologies

20-20 is the world’s leading provider of computer-aided design, sales software and manufacturing solutions for the interior design industry. The Company’s software offers state of the art design, specification, photo-realistic rendering and 3-D visualization for configurable products in the residential and commercial interior design markets. In addition, 20-20 offers proprietary end-to-end solutions, integrating the entire design, sales, supply chain and manufacturing processes of the industry. 20-20’s solutions also include an integration platform for enterprise resource planning systems as well as computer-aided engineering and planning software tailored for the industry’s manufacturers. 20-20’s software is sold in more than 90 countries and used at over 25,000 points-of-sale worldwide. 20-20 is a publicly traded company (TWT) on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements concern anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations that are not historical facts. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that can affect our actual results and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement made by us or on our behalf. These statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:39 AM | Comments (0)

Powerful Dual Homing Technology for JetNet 4508 Managed Switch

As the network expanding to connect many devices together, the Ethernet redundancy becomes more critical to ensure the production non-stop in connection. Korenix Dual homing technology, equipped in JetNet 4508 and 4508f managed switch, provides the most flexible solution to let different brands of Ethernet devices connecting together and also keep the redundant Ethernet working in fast recovery.

(PRWEB) August 25,2006 -- As the network expanding to connect many devices together, the Ethernet redundancy becomes more critical to ensure the production non-stop in connection. Korenix Dual homing technology, equipped in JetNet 4508 and 4508f managed switch, provides the most flexible solution to let different brands of Ethernet devices connecting together and also keep the redundant Ethernet working in fast recovery.

In many enterprise level applications, users choose chassis switch as their backbone switch, or select Cisco switches to connect in an upper ring. The benefit of such chassis L3 switch, can setup IP interface and routing different IP subnets. It has high ports and provides different modules, copper or fiber to meet demand in various media interface, the modules also can be hot swap and backup with each other. Most of those L3 switches and Cisco switches adapting standard Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) as Ethernet redundancy solution.

The switches and ring redundancy protocol in the upper ring will be always considered as first priority than the edge rings or edge switches. So, how to compatible and work with the different upper ring redundancy protocol is very important for the edge managed switch.

By connecting the Dual Homing switches to one of the modules, the 2 ports can be backup with each other. In such environment, it always requests to separate the Super Rings from different VLANs or IP subnets. The 2 Super Rings can be virtually separated easily and the different VLANs/subnets can be routed by the IP interfaces.

Dual homing provides an advanced redundancy network solution by connecting switches running in different redundant protocols (e.g. IEEE 802.1w Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol and Super Ring) to extend the network redundant coverage.

Redundancy is achieved by connecting two ports from two separate switches using Super Ring protocol with two ports of Managed Switches using other redundancy protocol (please see Figure 1 and Figure 2). An active link where data is transmitted is connected with one port in the switch. The other port connected with another switch is a hot standby link. Constantly monitoring the hot standby link and will switch over in seconds once the active link is disconnected or breaks.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:38 AM | Comments (0)

New 2,300-Foot Mock Pipeline Provides Emergency Response Training

The Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) has completed a 2,300-foot below-ground pipeline with multiple above-ground connections to train emergency responders, local officials, command staff and others to manage and mitigate pipeline emergencies. TEEX's new Pipeline Emergencies course using the prop begins Aug. 28.

College Station STATION, Texas (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -– Pipelines have always played an integral role in the petrochemical industry; yet, until recently, pipeline emergency response training programs have not readily been available to responders.

The Texas Engineering Extension Service, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Association of State Fire Marshals, is changing this by offering the new Pipeline Emergencies course beginning Aug. 28.

TEEX has completed a 2,300-foot below-ground pipeline with multiple above-ground connections to train emergency responders, local officials, command staff and others to manage and mitigate pipeline emergencies. The project, which can leak both liquid and gas, is located at TEEX’s world-renowned Brayton Fire Training Field in College Station and was constructed with input from the world’s leading pipeline industry representatives.

The 40-hour program will be taught using three modules and will address pipeline awareness, operations and emergency response for both gas and liquid pipelines, and transmission and distribution systems.

The first module will concentrate on pipeline awareness, in which regulatory factors, causes of pipeline incidents, prevention of pipeline emergencies will be covered through team-based exercises.

Students will then learn about both gas and liquid pipeline operations during the second module, which includes both transmission and distribution systems and below- and above-ground equipment. Pipeline safety programs, inspection, aging systems, equipment identification, and pipeline markings will also covered in this class.

The third class module will teach and exercise pipeline emergency response replicating a real-world scenario. The Incident Command System will be utilized under the guidelines of the National Incident Management System.

"The flexibility of the training props to leak both liquid and gas is very important when you consider the products you could encounter in any potential emergency," said TEEX Program Supervisor Gordon Lohmeyer. "This course is a much-needed emergency response training tool, especially when you consider our aging pipeline infrastructure that crosses the United States and countries worldwide."

For more information about the new course, visit TEEX on the Web or or call 979-458-4719.

TEEX, a member of The Texas A&M University System, offers hands-on, customized training, technical assistance and emergency response services impacting Texas and beyond. Agency programs include fire services, homeland security, public safety and security, public works, safety and health, search and rescue, and economic solutions.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:36 AM | Comments (0)

Grand ISS Collaborates with Ramora UK Ltd on Global Counterterrorism Program

New program addresses critical aspects, communications, and challenges associated with explosives and related-emergency intervention activities in crisis situations.

St. Petersburg, FL (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Grand ISS, a global provider of security, risk management and investigative solutions, in association with Ramora UK Ltd, today announced the launch of a 24/7 Incident Helpline program. Ramora UK Ltd, of Hampshire, England delivers a wide range of security training and consultancy solutions in such areas as explosives, maritime, Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), underwater searches, Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV), health and safety.

Designed as a channel to reach out around the world with explosive device intervention expertise, the program effectively responds to security, terrorist or safety-related risks. Dave Welch, Ramora’s Director and Member of the Institute of Explosive Engineers (MIExpE) explains, "When a crisis occurs, military, governmental and non-governmental organizations require a crisis management response team with the ability to immediately communicate, connect and react as a single virtual organization. Teaming with Grand ISS transforms us into a greater joint force with multinational operability." Mr. Welch went on to report that this is the first-of-its-kind program in the international non-governmental private sector; and in the aftermath of recent events involving the British law enforcement’s thwarting a terrorist plot to blow-up airlines, he sees the program as an invaluable tool in the ongoing protection of innocent lives.

"We see the program as an inventive response strategy that empowers specialized industries operating in remote locations such as maritime, air transportation, oil and gas with the availability, resiliency and utilization of emergency help currently accessible in highly developed populated areas," noted Steven C. Purl, COO of Grand ISS. "Our program is based on the experience of crisis response teams managing actual explosive device situations, identifying plans to mitigate exposure, and applying best of industry practices to safeguard ships, oil platforms, refineries, pipelines, aircraft, desolate land-based industries, and far-reaching construction sites vulnerable to terrorist attacks and other hostile or malicious acts." In conjunction with this, Mr. Purl added another positive was the prospect that foreign governments, as well as military and law enforcement agencies with limited resources and budgets could utilize the program’s high level explosive expertise anytime, anywhere as necessary.

The partner program couples Ramora UK’s world leading land, sea and air explosive experts and advanced technologies with Grand ISS’ international special security operations (including anti-terrorism and combat units) and threat and actionable intelligence management services. "Security and safety should not have geographic, technical, political or cultural boundaries," said Steve Purl. "Our partnering program enables us to respond across societal boundaries to explosive-related threats and emergencies with access to qualified experts at the time of contact regardless of global positioning."

About Grand ISS
Grand ISS is an employee-owned, full service global provider of risk mitigation, security and investigative solutions. The company services commercial and government entities; and specializes in highly challenging protection assignments -- including counterterrorism operations -- around the world. Grand ISS assembles experienced professionals in every security and investigative niche, forensic experts, and state-of-the-art technologies for the primary purposes of reducing exposure to risk, and maximizing successful resolution of investigation and litigation matters. Additionally, the company maintains strategic relationships with a number of best of breed organizations operating internationally to maximize its service portfolio capabilities, multiply effectiveness, improve marketing efforts, and drive growth initiatives in public and private entities in diverse industries. Grand ISS is collocated in St. Petersburg, Florida and Swindon, England. For more information, call +(1) 727.797.6545 or visit online at www.grandiss.com

About Ramora UK Ltd
Ramora UK is a specialist company offering a wide range of explosive-related services to both commercial and law enforcement sectors. Capable of delivering highly skilled and credible consultants, trainers and operators worldwide, Ramora utilises the skills and experience of ex military and law enforcement personnel to achieve first class results every time. From the delivery of reactive 24-hour Bomb Disposal services through to high risk counter terrorist search and disposal techniques, Ramora has the capability of delivering solutions to complex and sensitive situations anywhere in the world. Ramora UK personnel each have in excess of 20 years experience in the planning and delivery of EOD and security-related services throughout the world. This includes areas ranging from the United States and Europe through North Africa the Middle East and Far East. Ramora UK Headquarters are located at 25 The Slipway, Port Solent, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 4TR United Kingdom. For further details, call +44 (0) 2392 380777 or visit online at www.ramorauk.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:35 AM | Comments (0)

Do Warsaw, Prague and Budapest Top Real Estate Buy Lists in the EU: CEE Forum 2006 Promises to Tell All

The Central and Eastern Europe, Russia & CIS States commercial real estate FORUM 2006 will be held at the Grand Hyatt, Manhattan, October 5th and 6th. Complete booking and sponsorship details for the New York conference can be obtained at www.europaproperty.com or by calling in North America: Toll-Free 1-800-731-8482; in Europe dial +48-22-528-1982.

NEW YORK, NY (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- A number of studies published over the past year on current and future commercial real estate investment in the EU make a case for the industry’s potential to generate healthy returns through 2006. Warsaw, Prague and Budapest are all given strong ’buy’ recommendations.

A 2005 study published by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Urban Land Institute (ULI). points out that, "From 1998 to the present approximately EUR 8.6 billion has been invested into property in CEE, with approximately 72% of the total invested volume during this time period being invested within the last two years. Although the three major Central European property markets – Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland – continue to dominate the investment scene for the region and account for more than 93% of the total volume invested since 1998, there is now increased activity in Romania, Russia and Slovakia." The study confirms that Poland’s investment market in regional cities is so far the most active in CEE, although it is expected that activity will continue to expand in Czech and Hungarian regional cities as well during the next two to three years.

"No question that there is burgeoning expansion in the commercial real estate marketplace in Central and Eastern Europe, Russia & CIS States," says Europaproperty.com publisher, Craig Smith. "That is exactly why we decided that 2006 was an excellent year to launch the US based commercial real estate FORUM series. These are exciting and dynamic times in a recently expanded EU, and investors, property managers, real estate agents, investment bankers and other professionals in the cre field should have a platform like FORUM 2006 for meeting and discussing all of the issues-financial, legal and regulatory, that will impact upon their investment decisions in one market or the other."

The Central and Eastern Europe, Russia & CIS States commercial real estate FORUM 2006 will be held at the Grand Hyatt, Manhattan, October 5th and 6th. Complete booking and sponsorship details for the New York conference can be obtained at www.europaproperty.com or by calling in North America: Toll-Free 1-800-731-8482; in Europe dial +48-22-528-1982.
Europaproperty.com is recognized as a leading organizer of Conferences and other special events for the commercial real estate marketplace throughout Central and Eastern Europe, Russia and the CIS states.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:35 AM | Comments (0)

Iteration2 Named to Elite Microsoft Business Solutions Inner Circle

Industry leader and Microsoft Dynamics AX partner Iteration2 selected to join premier Microsoft group.

Irvine, CA (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Iteration2 (www.iteration2.com), Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and 2006 U.S. MBS Partner of the Year, announced they have received recognition from Microsoft for exceptional industry leadership and was named to the Microsoft® Business Solutions Inner Circle, an accomplishment earned by firms whose sales achievement ranks them at the top echelon of the Microsoft Business Solutions global network of value-added reselling partners. Membership in this elite group recognizes outstanding partners whose commitment to customers is reflected in their constant dedication to achieving high levels of customer satisfaction, active pursuit of product and technological advancement, and impressive sales performance.

"We are pleased to welcome Iteration2 into Microsoft’s Inner Circle," said Microsoft Corporate Vice President, Tami Reller. "By achieving Inner Circle recognition, Iteration2 is at the top level of the premier partner channel in the industry. We want to thank them for their commitment to Microsoft, our customers and solutions."

"It is a true privilege to be a member of Microsoft Business Solution’s Inner Circle which is composed of inspirational organizations that represent the top 1% of partners worldwide." says Mike Gillis, President of Iteration2. "Our team members work together seamlessly to deliver clear strategic business value and exceed our customer’s expectations. Inner Circle acknowledges them for their commitment to be the finest professionals in the industry!

Recognized as the fastest growing Axapta partner in North America Iteration2 also achieved Inner Circle status in 2005. Iteration2 continues to receive industry recognition attributing success to their knowledgeable team of professionals, enterprise software domain expertise, proven methodology, client satisfaction and focused vertical market strategy.

About Iteration2
Iteration2 provides its clients with a superior enterprise software implementation experience that is more attractive and affordable than solutions from SAP and Oracle. Combined with Microsoft’s integrated technology stack and unsurpassed financial strength, this provides a growth platform for today and tomorrow. Iteration2 is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, a leading provider of Microsoft Dynamics AX (formerly Microsoft Axapta), and the 2005 US MBS Partner of the Year, and recently announced 2006 US MBS Partner of the Year.

Iteration2’s industry focus, enterprise software domain experience, and exceptional capabilities with Dynamics and Microsoft platform and tools provide its clients with clear strategic business advantage. Iteration2 is based in Irvine, CA and has sales offices in strategic locations throughout the United States. Please visit the company’s website at www.iteration2.com.

For more information:
Greg Sad,
Marketing Director
Iteration2
(949) 789-1020

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:34 AM | Comments (0)

Universal Flow Monitors Introduces Online Flowmeter Technology Selection Chart

Universal Flow Monitors offers a new website resource that enables users to select the appropriate flowmeter technology for the type of fluid they are using. The flowmeter technology selection chart shows the technology that provides best value in a typical application of a fluid.

HAZEL PARK, MI (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 –- Universal Flow Monitors, Inc. has added a new resource to its website, www.flowmeters.com, that functions as a virtual information source for flowmeter technologies.

Flowmeters.com now provides a chart that enables site visitors to select the appropriate flowmeter technology for the type of fluid they are using.

The flowmeter technology selection chart shows the technology that provides best value in a typical application of a fluid. The chart also compares various technologies and fluids on the basis of cost, accuracy, installation requirements, output type, on-unit display availability, power requirements, flow switching availability, rangability, fluid conductivity and response time.

Technologies on the selection chart include Coriolis mass, magnetic, vortex shedding, variable area, vane, weir, flume, area velocity, ultrasonic, turbine, thermal, target, paddlewheel and positive displacement. Fluids on the chart include clean, dirty, corrosive, open channel, cryogenic and viscous liquids; greases; clean oil; non-Newtonian liquids; abrasive and fibrous slurries; clean and dirty gases; and saturated and superheated steam.

To view the selection chart, click on “Flowmeter Technologies” in the toolbar at the top of the homepage, and then scroll down to “Flowmeter Selection by Technology.”

Flowmeters.com also provides a flowmeter selector tool with links to meter options for various types of flow streams and numerous industries. Users can click on the type of stream they need to measure or the industry related to their application. They are linked to flowmeters in that category that best meet their needs in terms of performance and price.

Visitors to Flowmeters.com also can listen to a lecture on flowmeter selection and receive “Live Help” on flowmeter technologies and products. The “Live Help” service includes two-way communication with a flowmeters expert and a co-browser function for site navigation. Other features of the website include overviews of flowmeter technologies, descriptions of how various types of flowmeters work, a discussion of flow computers and a glossary of flow terminology.

The sponsor of Flowmeters.com, Universal Flow Monitors, Inc., is located in Hazel Park, Michigan, and has manufactured flowmeters for a variety of industries for more than 20 years. The company can be reached at (248) 542-9635.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:33 AM | Comments (0)

IPA SBRB Study: Manufacturers Optimistic About Business Prospects; More Confident About Prospects than Other Small and Medium-Size Business Sectors

Projected revenue growth, hiring expected to remain strong.

Buffalo Grove, IL (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Small and medium-size manufacturers are more optimistic than other industry segments with many owners and managers projecting revenue growth and continued hiring over the next 12 months, according to the results of an International Profit Associates Small Business Research Board (IPA SBRB) survey released here today.

The IPA SBRB Manufacturing Confidence Index was established at 45 for the first IPA SBRB manufacturing industry poll completed earlier this month. By contrast, the aggregated IPA SBRB Small Business Confidence Index (SBCI) for all small and medium-size businesses participating in the survey was 39.3, which represented a drop from 47.3 for the previous poll concluded in May 2006. Similarly, the confidence of construction and contracting firms dropped to 30.7 from the 49.3 that was registered three months ago.

The IPA SBRB has been tracking the attitudes of small businesses since July 2004. Earlier this year, the IPA SBRB began issuing reports for specialized industries, the first of which measured the attitudes of construction and contracting companies. Manufacturing represents the second focused industry study that will be conducted quarterly. A third focused industry study will be added when the next round of research is conducted during the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2006.

Nearly half of the manufacturers that responded to the poll indicated that they are forecasting improvement in the economy over the next 12 months and that a full 50% of them expect revenues to increase during this period. Nearly 40% said they expect revenues to remain about the same. This compares to the universe of all small businesses of which only 42 % believe the economy will improve during the next year and 46% of whom are expecting revenue growth. Among construction and contracting companies, 26% said they had confidence that the economy will improve. Of the construction and contracting firms responding to the survey, 40% are estimating that revenues will exceed current levels over the next 12 months.

Hiring among manufacturers is projected to remain healthy. During the next 12 months only 5% said they intend to decrease the workforce, 45% said it will remain the same and 38% believe they will add employees.

“There is a significant variance in the confidence levels of manufacturers versus those of the general small business community and those of construction companies and contractors. By the end of the year, we will be able to determine whether the perceived strength in the manufacturing is based upon existing orders or new contracts,” said Gregg Steinberg, President of International Profit Associates, the largest privately-held provider of management consulting and professional services to small and medium-size businesses in North America.

“Hopefully, manufacturing will not suffer the same slowdown occurring in the construction sector and that the optimism will turn into reality,” Steinberg added.

Nevertheless, finding quality employees, cost of materials, the general economy, and taxes -- listed as the top four issues of concern among manufacturers -- may present serious obstacles to meeting the growth projections.

Finding quality employees was listed by 17% of the manufacturing respondents as their most significant issue. Other major issues were cost of materials (16%), taxes, (13%) and economic conditions (12%).

“The fact that 12% of the manufacturers are concerned about the economy illustrates that there is a pocket of concern about the next 12 months and that some owners and managers are following the indicators should it be necessary to make adjustments necessary to manage profitability,” said Steinberg.

Surprisingly, only 2% of the manufacturers said energy and fuel were there greatest concern, while 15% of the universal group of all small businesses said it was their leading issue.

As far as other areas of interest, manufacturing firms had varied opinions about being prepared to handle emergencies, whether the minimum wage should be raised and the fate of the estate tax -- all of which were similar to the universe of all small to medium-size businesses.

Of the manufacturing firms, 34% said they have a disaster or emergency plan ready.

Manufacturing firms are split about the minimum wage, with 45% in favor of it being raised, 23% opposing an increase and 31% not certain.

The view on estate taxes are mixed as well with 21% opting for them remaining as they are, 25% abolishing them, 21% looking for a “change” and 21% unsure.

The International Profit Associates Small Business Research Board ascertains and reports the opinions of small business owners and managers on a wide variety of topics related to their own businesses as well as national and international issues that may impact their operations.

The IPA SBRB research includes studies of specific industry segments, such as Construction & Contracting and Manufacturing. The IPA Small Business Research Board will continue to expand upon the base of industries it tracks.
Participants in IPA SBRB polls provide feedback on significant issues and allow for real-time insight into the state of small businesses nationwide. The universe of participants is developed from among small businesses across the United States. IPA SBRB studies are voluntary surveys conducted via phone and email. Polls are structured and supervised through an independent resource.

The latest information about the IPA Small Business Research Board can be found at www.ipasbrb.com.

International Profit Associates, Inc. (IPA) is the largest privately held provider of management consulting services to small and medium-sized businesses in North America. IPA and its more than 1,800 professionals offer a wide range of proven and innovative methodologies to help businesses grow and prosper regardless of the economic cycle. IPA either provides directly or through its affiliated companies a comprehensive array of business advisory services, tax and estate planning services or merger, acquisition and other financial advisory services in the United States and Canada. More information about IPA can be found at www.ipa-iba.com.

IPA SBRB Manufacturing Industry
Summer 2006 Survey (results in percentages)

General economy
Better 48
Worse 17
No Change 35

Revenue expectations
Expect increase of 10% or more 38
Expect increase of less than 10% 12
Expect revenue will be about the same 39
Expect decrease of less than 10% 8
Expect decrease of 10% or more 2

Hiring
Increase hiring 37
Decrease work force 5
Remain the same 45
Unsure 13

Single issue
Interest rates 6
Healthcare costs 8
Taxes 13
Cost of materials 16
Economic conditions 12
Foreign competition 7
Government regulation 6
Finding quality employees 17
Ability to obtain capital 5
Energy/Fuel Costs 2
Other 9

Developed and/or instituted an emergency disaster plan since hurricanes
Yes 21
No 68
Already had one in place last year 13

Raise minimum wage
Yes 45
No 23
Don’t know/no opinion 31

Estate tax
Abolish 25
Change 33
Remain same 21
Don’t know/no opinion 21

Copyright 2006 International Profit Associates Small Business Research Board (IPA SBRB). The International Profit Associates Small Business Research Board ascertains and reports the opinions of small business owners and managers on a wide variety of topics related to their own businesses as well as national and international issues that may impact their operations. The information may be reprinted or quoted from with attribution.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:31 AM | Comments (0)

Employers in Russia Fight Rear Guard Action

2006 was set from the start to be a good year for job-seekers, but at the cost of employers. The simple fact is that virtually all companies are expanding and there are not enough good people to satisfy the demand. This has two results: employers either compromise on their requirements, i.e. find candidates with less experience, from another industry or discipline or with lower academic standards alternatively go head to head with other companies and compete with benefits – cash and non-financial.

Moscow (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- This year, 2006, was set from the start to be a good year for job-seekers, but at the cost of employers. The simple fact is that virtually all companies are expanding and there are not enough good people to satisfy the demand. This has two results: employers either compromise on their requirements, i.e. find candidates with less experience, from another industry or discipline or with lower academic standards alternatively go head to head with other companies and compete with benefits – cash and non-financial.

Many employers enter the market for talent blissfully unaware that it is already becoming a battlefield. This is a war fought by stealth and subversion rather than heavy artillery. Those companies who can react quickly and get an offer on the table will beat counteroffers by being the first to make a decision. This policy can backfire though; the charismatic, I might suggest slightly overbearing, owner one of our well-known Russian clients met a prospective employee from a FTSE100 company for a top level Finance Role. The meeting had taken months to arrange with careful courting and grooming of the candidate. The owner proclaimed amidst much triumph after 30 minutes of chitchat that the candidate was the man for the job and made an offer. It was a great offer, but a bridge too far for somebody safely ensconced in his plush offices in Central London whose first trip to Moscow had certainly been en eye-opener!

Most examples are more down to earth. Companies entering the market are desperate for ready trained staff. The easiest way to hit the deck rolling is to steal somebody else’s trained staff. Paying a 25%-50% premium for somebody is still cheaper than spending 6-12 months developing and investing in him or her. Your company will be vulnerable if you are not paying a reasonable market salary, and this constantly changing (usually upwards – unless your chosen profession is a driver!). You are slightly more secure if you are paying a performance related package with a good bonuses or commission structure, in these instances the only people who will be tempted away are staff who are average or below average performers. This then becomes self-policing and there’s a viewpoint that it’s even healthy to keep a certain level of staff turnover, particularly in a sales / commercial environment.

Employees are beginning to appreciate that if a company has to pay an unnecessarily high salary to attract somebody there may be a reason for this. The big payers are usually those companies who have to compensate for being smaller, less well known, less successful or new on the market. Big brand names with significant presence can afford to be less generous with cash rewards but generally have far more to offer by way of non-financial incentives. Those small to medium size companies still operating in the grey / semi legitimate way are losing staff as it’s difficult to get a bank loan if your stated salary is only $200 per month! Also one day the tax authorities will catch up in the end. With a 13% tax rate why would the employee want to take the risk, and from an employers’ point of view it’s plain ridiculous.

There is no end in sight for the overheating of the candidate market. I maintain it’s more conservative than pre-1998 but it’s certainly putting pressure on employers to make quick decisions, get their compensation and benefits policy tuned to the market, and retain good staff. Nobody is safe out there. Wear your flack jacket.

Tremayne Elson
Managing Partner
Antal International – Russia

Notes to Editors:
Antal International is a global executive recruitment business that was established in 1993. Antal specialises in the ‘Rising Star Recruitment’™ marketplace - mid to senior level management positions in all disciplines and across all sectors.

Over the years, Antal has been in the spotlight most notably for being the only recruitment organisation to have been listed in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 for four consecutive years.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:31 AM | Comments (0)

Stik-II Products Introduces PermaSTIK™ Glazing and SDL Mounting Tapes at GlassBuild America

Stik-II Products announces PermaSTIK™ Glazing and SDL Mounting Tapes for increased efficiency for fenestration professionals at GlassBuild America.

(PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Stik-II Products, a manufacturer of pressure sensitive foam tape, will announce two PermaSTIK™ tapes at GlassBuild America, The Glass, Window & Door Expo taking place September 19 – 21 in Las Vegas.

PermaSTIK™ SDL Mounting Tape, a high strength tape for Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) mounting, offers aggressive adhesion for permanent bonding applications. Constructed with special polyolefin alloy foam that is uniquely crosslinked to promote the strength of the foam backing and improved adhesive anchorage to the foam, PermaSTIK™ SDL Tape is ideal for mounting interior and exterior window grilles.

PermaSTIK™ Glazing Tape offers a weatherproof seal between the window sash and the insulated glass unit with closed cell polyethylene foam that is coated with aggressive acrylic or rubber adhesive on both sides or differentially coated with acrylic and rubber adhesives.

“We’ve had proven success in the fenestration industry for more than 20 years with glazing and SDL tapes,” says Mike Barrett, National Sales Manager.

Exceptional long-term aging characteristics, high tack on low surface energy substrates and resistance to U.V. light and temperature extremes are key features of both PermaSTIK™ tapes.

PermaSTIK™ SDL Mounting Tape bonds muntin bars made of wood, metal, vinyl and composite materials to glass. It is offered in gray, black and white in 1/32” and 1/16” thicknesses. PermaSTIK™ Glazing Tape, supplied with a poly liner for easy removal, seals glass in wood, vinyl and aluminum framing systems. PermaSTIK™ Glazing Tape is available in gray, black and white in 1/8”, 3/32”, 1/16” and 1/32” thicknesses.

For more information, visit us at GlassBuild booth #1579 or contact Stik-II Products at 800.356.3572 or www.stik-2.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:30 AM | Comments (0)

Fast & Easy P.O.P Tapes by Stik-II Products Debut at In-Store Marketing Expo

Stik-II Products serves the P.O.P industry with foam tapes that make point-of-purchase display construction fast & easy. Fast adhesion, easy liner removal, same-day shipping for popular configurations, availability of various adhesive systems and die cut availability in standard and custom shapes are all benefits.

Easthampton, MA (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Fast & Easy Mounting Tapes produced by Stik-II Products will be on display in Chicago September 27 – 28 at the In-Store Marketing Expo, the year’s biggest trade event dedicated to retail marketing.

Known in industrial markets for its pressure sensitive tape & sealing solutions, Stik-II Products caters to the P.O.P industry with foam tapes that make point-of-purchase display construction fast & easy. Polyethylene foam coated with acrylic, rubber, removable or differential adhesive systems offer excellent adhesion on many substrates including uneven surfaces, corrugated, metal, wood and most plastics.

In addition to rolls of tape, die cuts are available in standard and custom shapes in roll form or in pads. These products are ideal for display construction, sign mounting and adhering ceiling and window mounts.

“Fast adhesion and easy liner removal make our P.O.P tapes an ideal mounting solution for industry professionals,” says Michael Barrett, National Sales Manager. “And our same-day shipping for popular configurations makes purchasing P.O.P tapes from Stik-II fast and easy as well.”

For more information, visit us at In-Store Marketing booth #122 or contact Stik-II Products at 800.356.3572 or www.stik-2.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:29 AM | Comments (0)

Thomas R. Cutler Manufacturing Journalist Profiles Datacraft Solutions in Manufacturing.net

Durham, NC (PRWEB) August 24, 2006 -- Kanban, in its most simplifying role, is a visual signal (or cue) that something needs to be replenished. More specifically, lean manufacturers today use digital kanban by Datacraft Solutions (www.datacraftsolutions.com) to drive a process to make, move, or buy the appropriate parts. Thus, digital kanban becomes one of the fundamental building blocks of a pull (or consumption based) replenishment system.

Manufacturing journalist Thomas R. Cutler profile Digital Kanban in Manufacturing.net at http://manufacturing.net/article/CA6359641.html.

Luvata Buffalo Inc., Buffalo, N.Y., a brass and copper sheet mill operation, has a wide customer base that services varied market segments including the appliance industry, telecommunications, ordinance, connectors, and rolled products.

Their sister plant in Kentucky, called Luvata Franklin, uses copper strip from the Buffalo facility to make copper tubing for the air conditioning industry. In late 2005, the Luvata Corporate Group issued a directive for all production facilities to collaborate and reduce total working capital across all facilities. The objective for Luvata Franklin and Buffalo was to reduce the total inventory held by both plants.

According to Jeffrey Ball, Luvata's value engineering and information services manager, “This presented a unique challenge for both plants. The two plants had separate planning, inventory and scheduling systems, and in order to ensure that the weld lines at Franklin never ran out of raw material, there was always a large amount of inventory 'in the pipeline.'

"In order to prevent stock outs of a specific part number, a great deal of time was required by both the Buffalo and Franklin scheduling teams to avert disaster. It seemed as though, whichever parts were made, they were not the parts that were needed today at Franklin. Expediting of individual part numbers was the norm.”

What Luvata needed was a system that could integrate both the Buffalo and Franklin shop floor control systems and provide a visual, easy-to-understand, and real-time representation of the total supply chain.

The Buffalo and Franklin scheduling groups formed a team to address the need to reduce the amount of working capital tied up in the supply chain and improve the reliability of deliveries.

“There was plenty of candid conversation within the team that moved the two plants from a win/lose mentality, to a group focused on developing a win/win result,” Ball said.

The Franklin plant found a solution in a new tool called digital kanban (also known as eKanban) from Datacraft Solutions, Durham, N.C., a demand-driven supply chain technology provider. Based upon the initial success of the digital kanban system at Franklin, the Buffalo facility installed the same system in their plant. Now both plants have a common supply chain management system that was easily, quickly, and affordably implemented.

The Buffalo/Franklin team worked closely with Datacraft to define the project costs, benefits and time schedules. The primary objectives of reduced working capital (25 percent inventory reduction), improved delivery reliability (avoid stockouts), easy-to-use scheduling modules, and quick implementation time fell well within Luvata's budget and timeframe.

Datacraft Solutions specializes in providing their clients with the tools they need to rapidly replace outdated manual systems with technology that speeds process flow and improves accuracy. Datacraft’s premier product, Signum has been developed around the Kanban concept of replenishment, and provides an invaluable tool for manufacturing companies to monitor process flow, lower administrative transaction costs, and improve decision-making ability.

Datacraft Solutions
www.datacraftsolutions.com
Matthew Marotta
800-819-5326

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:28 AM | Comments (0)

Consumer Electronics Importers Going Straight To The Source In China at Chinavasion.com

Innovative China-Based Wholesaler Opens Live Online Ordering System, With No Minimum Order Quantity Restrictions

SHENZHEN, China (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- Chinavasion Wholesale Co. Ltd. announced today the launch of their online ordering platform - China Electronics Wholesale - enabling wholesale buyers to import electronics direct from China. Also released is an exclusive newsletter for wholesale members, featuring advice and news about how to import electronics from Chinese suppliers.

China's many new consumer electronics manufacturers are ready to meet the demands of US and European markets, but often deals are not closed because both sides lack the communication readiness to work together successfully from the start, said Rose Li, Public Relations Director of Chinavasion. Chinavasion, she said, offers a unique opportunity for importers to access new electronics products that are manufactured in China, without the complications - and fear of commitments - that often accompany first-time import deals.

Through their new online wholesale shop, Chinavasion offers international buyers low wholesale prices on a wide range of consumer electronics, from Bluetooth mobile phone accessories to car stereos, and digital cameras to MP3 players and electronic gadgets. The website includes a pictured and detailed specification for each wholesale product, making it easy for importers to browse categories of interest and instantly select products to order samples.

"Importing from China is still a new area for many in the electronics retail business. Although many business people are well aware of the opportunities presented by the low prices of Chinese-produced goods, actually establishing a reliable source for your products can be quite a minefield for the inexperienced," Li commented. "Our company lets foreign buyers pick up samples and large wholesale orders from the qualified manufacturers, in one simple online order process, without the strain of lengthy negotiations or complex payment systems."

The site's recently launched weblog, focusing on "China Business News", contains commentary about recent developments in the Chinese market, helping importers stay in touch and increase their knowledge of Asian sourcing. Popular topics in the Blog and opt-in newsletter include "How To Deal With Import Taxes", "Chinese Business Culture Tips", and "How To Build Relationships With Chinese Suppliers".

"The Chinavasion newsletter contains a wealth of advice for new importers that you won't find elsewhere online," Li said. "We've had so much positive feedback from wholesale importers about how much they've learned, and the questions keep coming in. We're really happy that we can help connect Western buyers and Chinese suppliers, because it's a win-win situation for everyone, including the end consumers."

Li added that Chinavasion strives for competitive pricing on even small quantity orders, allowing smaller-scale importers to benefit from the online ordering system. Online auction sellers, such as EBay sellers, have found the simple ordering system useful for importing small batches of electronics products without the need to invest in warehouse space or stock. The company accepts all major credit cards through Paypal online payments, as well as bank transfers. As one American Chinavasion client comments: "It's really nice to meet serious sellers that deliver what we need".

Orders for electronics items are shipped door-to-door by express couriers at shipping costs based on the international rates of carriers such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS. Most orders can be packed and sent out within two or three days, and technical staff inspect the goods as they are packed to ensure QA standards in the exported products.

For further information about Chinavasion and to sign up as a wholesale buyer, visit http://www.chinavasion.com/

About Chinavasion Wholesale Co. Ltd.
Chinavasion is a Chinese-owned electronics wholesale company. It buys exclusively from Chinese factories and distributors and offers a wide range of consumer electronics products for wholesale buyers, including hard-to-find and specialist electronics products.

Contact:
Rose Li
Chinavasion Ltd.
Tel. 0086-755-26451869
http://www.chinavasion.com/

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:27 AM | Comments (0)

Quickparts Offers New PolyJet Rapid Prototyping Materials

"Quickparts continues to expand our line of rapid prototyping processes and materials to meet our customers’ needs." said Mark Mackie, Executive Vice President of Quickparts. "With Eden 500V building layers as fine as 16 microns (0.0006 inches), PolyJet offers design engineers with an option for prototypes with precise feature detail and a smooth surface finish."

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- Quickparts (www.Quickparts.com), the leading provider of rapid prototypes and low-volume custom-manufactured production parts, today announced the availability of new advanced PolyJet materials for Rapid Prototyping.

PolyJet VeroBlue, VeroWhite and 720 Translucent complement Quickparts’ existing line of TangoGray and TangoBlack elastomeric materials that have been available since February. Prototypes made from the new PolyJet materials can now be quoted instantly online using Quickparts.com’s patent-pending QuickQuote process. Full material properties and data sheets are available online at Quickparts.com.

"Quickparts continues to expand our line of rapid prototyping processes and materials to meet our customers’ needs." said Mark Mackie, Executive Vice President of Quickparts. "With the Eden 500Vs building layers as fine as 16 microns (0.0006 inches), PolyJet offers design engineers with an option for prototypes with precise feature detail and a smooth surface finish."

To learn more about Quickparts’ full line of prototyping materials, visit http://www.quickparts.com/encyclopedia/materials.asp or call 877-521-8683.

About Quickparts
Quickparts provides custom manufacturing services for engineers and designers looking to create plastic and metal parts from 3D CAD (computer-aided design) models. With its proprietary QuickQuote® geometric analysis software, Quickparts is able to provide product designers with an ‘instant online quote’ for the manufacturing of their custom parts from prototype to production. Services include: Rapid Prototypes (SLA, SLS, FDM), Cast Urethanes, Quickturn Injection Mold Tooling and Parts, Sheet Metal Parts, Metal Castings, and CNC Machined Parts.

Objet Geometries, Eden, TangoBlack, TangoGray and PolyJet are trademarks of Objet Geometries Ltd.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:26 AM | Comments (0)

Innovative Self Locking Threaded Fasteners Can Take the Heat and Vibration of Diesel Engines

Unique internal thread locking form is helping diesel-powered vehicle manufacturers combat extreme engine temperature and vibration, while minimizing thread loosening, assembly, and service costs.

(PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- For engine performance, reliability, as well as meeting emission standards, joint integrity must be maintained in critical areas such as turbocharger mounts, exhaust manifold joints and attachments, where extreme heat and vibration can weaken and shake loose standard fasteners. Fortunately unique self locking threaded fasteners eliminate bolt failure and back out by employing an innovative thread locking form.

Imagine harnessing the heat energy of a blast furnace while keeping the vibrational equivalent of a jet fighter’s acceleration in check. This is essentially what diesel engine designers worldwide must do to keep diesel trucks on the road and on schedule for thousands of operational hours.

Traditional threaded fasteners face severe limitations in diesel truck engine applications, particularly those with high performance turbo requirements. They are susceptible to shock, vibration, loading, as well as thermal expansion and contraction.

Friction-induced thread galling, or fusing, can also create assembly and service problems when high-resistance prevailing torque nuts are used with high-speed assembly equipment and stainless steel fasteners. Due to galling, prevailing torque nuts may "freeze" before fully tightened during assembly, causing exhaust leakage, gasket failure, reduced engine performance and reduced fuel economy.

To combat these problems, engineers are comparing traditional fastening methods with innovative self locking fasteners that are used by NASA.

The traditional 60° "vee" thread design was originally created to accommodate unavoidable problems such as drill, tap, and die wear; hole and thread size variation; and errors in placement, thread finish, etc. However, they are prone to self-loosening rotational movement, particularly in high vibration environments such as diesel engine applications. Stripping or shearing can also occur since 60° threads position as much as 80% of the clamp load on the first and second engaged thread, permitting subsequent male threads to "float" within the female threads.

Through the geometry and physics of the thread itself, Madison Heights, Mich.-based Spiralock Corp. offers sophisticated self locking fasteners designed to address fastener loosening, and stripping under high temperature and vibration. Instead of the traditional 60º "vee" thread design, Spiralock’s self locking fasteners are designed with 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. Since Spiralock’s self locking threaded fasteners provide a mechanical solution to the loosening problem, they are more tolerant of cyclic temperature changes than 60° threads using nylon or adhesives. The thread locking form allows for both thermal expansion and contraction without slippage.

When Mack found that a mechanical crimp nut wasn’t meeting its stringent installation and service requirements in mounting a turbocharger to the exhaust manifold in a heavy truck model, it rigorously tested, then adopted, Spiralock’s self locking threaded fasteners.

Caterpillar also adopted Spiralock self locking threaded fasteners for diesel engine applications such as turbocharger mounts, exhaust manifold joints and attachments, after thorough testing by its technical center.

Across the board diesel engine engineers, including Shanghai Diesel Engine, one of the largest engine manufacturers in China, are solving design challenges using Spiralock’s self locking threaded fasteners.

Spiralock Corporation
Kate Turowska
Phone: (248) 543-7800
Fax: (248) 543-1403
http://www.spiralock.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:25 AM | Comments (0)

Antig Wins Red Herring Asia Top 100 Award; Innovative Fuel Cell Solution to Drive Forward the IT Industry

Antig Technology, a leading provider of fuel cell solution, today announced it has been selected as a winner of the 2006 Red Herring Asia Top 100 award. In later half of 2006,Antig will showcase further fuel cell solutions and application reference designs at "IFA 2006" in Berlin, and "Intel Developer Forum 2006" in San Francisco.

Taipei, Taiwan (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- Antig Technology, a leading provider of fuel cell solution, today announced it has been selected as a winner of the 2006 Red Herring Asia Top 100 award. The award program, which received over 600 entries across Asia for consideration, recognizes companies that are impacting the market through their innovation, technology, strategy, and leadership. Red Herring judges selected Antig Technology after a thorough evaluation of its business model, management, key alliances, customers, products and services.

"To be one of the distinguished companies chosen by the Red Herring editorial staff for this exclusive award is a great honor and validation for Antig's leadership position in fuel cell solution" said Bill Chen, President of Antig Technology. "This award acknowledges our innovation in technology and sound business strategy for growth."

In the later half of the 2006, Antig will showcase further fuel cell solutions and application reference designs at "IFA 2006" in Berlin, Germany and "Intel Developer Forum 2006" in San Francisco, USA.

About Antig Technology
Headquartered in Taiwan, Antig is the leading fuel cell solution provider that helps IT product developers to use fuel cell technology , fulfill the ever growing power demand in their products.

About Red Herring Asia Top 100
Through a stringent application review process, Red Herring’s editorial team vetted Asia’s hottest technology startups. Red Herring Asia celebrates the successes of these companies and their business models on August 28th in Hong Kong.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:24 AM | Comments (0)

All Aluminum Chair Introduced by by Foster & Partners and Emeco; Made to go Anywhere, Even the 22nd Century

Emeco, the Aluminum Chair Company, introduces "20-06", an all-aluminum chair by Foster and Partners, the London based architectural design studio. The new chair will debut at 100% Design (London, September 18-24) and travel to Inerieur (Kortrijk, Belgium) Orgatec (Cologne, Germany) and Designers’ Saturday (Langenthal, Switzerland). "20-06" recalls Emeco’s classic 10-06 Navy ® Chair – the all-aluminum icon first made for submarines in WWII, while expressing a refined structure and modern inference. Gregg Buchbinder, Emeco’s Chairman, notes, "Norman Foster and his group have fused modernist form with established craft.

Hanover, PA (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- Emeco, the Aluminum Chair Company, introduces "20-06", an aluminum chair and stool project by Foster and Partners, the London based architectural design studio. "20-06" recalls Emeco’s classic 10-06 Navy ® Chair – the all-aluminum icon first made for submarines in WWII, while expressing a refined structure and modern inference. Both "20-06" and the classic 10-06 have an estimated 150-year lifespan. "20-06" launches at 100% Design in London, September 18-24, 2006 and has been selected by the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum for its 2006 Triennial.

The sleek new chair features an ultra-slim, all-aluminum frame, tempered for strength and hand made at the historic Hanover Pennsylvania factory using Emeco’s proprietary "77 Step Process". The ergonomically shaped aluminum seat and back are hand welded, resulting in a minimal, seamless appearance. "20-06" is super-strong, yet uses 15% less aluminum than the original Navy ® Chair. Of that metal, 80% is recycled aluminum, qualifying as an environmentally sound product. The lightweight chairs will stack 10 high and retail for US$ 385 –the same as the 10-06 Navy ® Chair. Bar and counter stools will sell for around $ 450. "20-06" passes BIFMA requirements and is guaranteed for life.

Gregg Buchbinder, Emeco’s Chairman, notes, "Norman Foster and his group have fused modernist form with established craft. The Foster Studio combined advanced technology, inventive geometry, attention to detail, and sensitivity to ecological considerations with Emeco’s unique manufacturing process to make a wholly new design. A Foster building and an Emeco chair are both modern in character, yet demonstrate a great respect for the past."

John Small, a partner at the Foster Studio, and lead designer on the "20-06" project said," Working with Gregg and the Emeco team has been fascinating. From our first contact with Emeco, we wanted to create a new chair that would challenge not only Emeco’s materials and processes but also ourselves as designers. The new "20-06" is the result of a genuine collaboration between the Foster Studio and the Emeco Team and will contribute to Emeco's remarkable history.’

Foster and Partners is an international studio for architecture, planning and design led by Lord Foster. Established in 1967, the practice has project offices world wide with its main studio in London. The practice’s work ranges in scale from the largest construction project on the planet, Beijing International airport to its smallest commission, a range of door furniture.

The scope of its work includes master plans for cities, the design of buildings, interior and product design, graphics and exhibitions. These can be found throughout the world, from Britain, Europe and Scandinavia to the United States, Hong Kong, Japan, China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Australia.

"Norman Foster is the Mozart of Modernism," wrote Paul Goldberger. Lord Foster became the 21st Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate in 1999 and was awarded the Praemium Imperiale Award for Architecture in 2002. He has been awarded the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal for Architecture (1994), the Royal Gold Medal for Architecture (1983), and the Gold Medal of the French Academy of Architecture (1991). In 1990, he was granted a Knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, appointed by the Queen to the Order of Merit in 1997 and in 1999 was honoured with a Life Peerage in the Queen's Birthday Honors List, as Lord Foster of Thames Bank.

Emeco was founded in 1944 to make all-aluminum chairs for the US Navy. Mr. Buchbinder purchased the company in 1998 and began a friendship and association with the renowned French architect, Philippe Starck, creating a series of products that united Emeco's historic manufacturing capabilities with Mr. Starck's classic designs for a new century. In 2000, Mr. Starck's Hudson chair for Emeco won the GOOD DESIGN Award and was inducted into the permanent design collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In 2004, Emeco collaborated with the American architect Frank Gehry on Superlight, a chair that utilizes aluminum's ability to be both strong and flexible. Mr. Gehry's chair won another GOOD DESIGN award in 2004 and was included in collections at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Pinakothek der Modern in Munich. Most recently, Emeco worked with BMW DesignworksUSA to re-interpret a long-lost Emeco chair from 1951 for the contemporary market.
Emeco has made over 1,000,000 Navy chairs since 1944, and now sells its all-aluminum furniture in 50 countries.

"20-06" Launches at Brands Ltd, 99 St. John St, London from September 18 – 24 (100% Design). For information, phone [44 2070171680.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:23 AM | Comments (0)

GAMMA is the First Salt Lamp Manufacturer Granted Canadian Standards Association Safety Approval

Most Americans know to look for the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) mark when they are shopping for electrical products. Similarly, residents of Canada look for the CSA (Canadian Standards Association) mark for assurance that they are buying a tested and approved product. GAMMA Salt Cristals Ltd. is the first salt lamp manufacturer to be issued CSA certification.

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- With safety in mind, most Americans know to look for the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) mark while shopping for electrical products. Similarly, residents of Canada trust the CSA (Canadian Standards Association) mark for assurance that they are buying a safety tested and approved product. GAMMA Salt Cristals Ltd. is the first manufacturer of salt crystal lamps to be issued certification by the Canadian Standards Association.

GAMMA salt lamps have been issued a CSA C & US certificate. The "C" and "US" indicators adjacent to the CSA Mark signify that our salt lamps have been tested to the applicable CSA and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standards, for use in Canada and the U.S. respectively.

More information on our Certification and the CSA itself can be found at: http://www.naturalsaltcrystallamps.com/CSA-certificate.html

GAMMA Salt Cristals Ltd is a leading manufacturer and seller of salt crystal products mined from the Himalayan Mountains in Pakistan. Our main product is a variety of salt lamp styles, including natural, spheres, pyramids, diffusers and more. These beautiful and colorful lamps are ideal for Feng Shui and emit negative ions when turned on, which naturally cleans the air without generating ozone as all man-made ionizers do. We also offer natural bath salts, pure consumption salt containing the same 84 trace minerals and elements contained in the human body, as well as salt candles, deodorant bars and other natural salt products at retail and wholesale in the US and Canada.

For further information contact:

Nadeem Azeem
GAMMA Salt Cristals Ltd
416-748-7700
http://www.naturalsaltcrystallamps.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:22 AM | Comments (0)

Filling Machines Are Made All Over the World

According to A Packaging Systems, www.apackaging.net, quality filling machines and packaging equipment are made all over the world. Even machines that are promoted as Made in America are built using components that are manufactured in other countries.

(PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- A Packaging Systems, LaPorte, Indiana wants to set the record straight. There are many companies selling filling machines and other packaging equipment that claim “Made in America” for all their products. Among the products offered are machines that are manufactured outside the U.S. “How do I know?” asked Todd Cannon, president of A Packaging Systems. “Because we supply the exact same product…at a lower price.”

That doesn’t mean that “Made in America” makes a product more expensive, but it doesn’t necessarily make it better either. A Packaging Systems manufactures some of the machines they sell. They also work with some of the best manufacturers in the world. Their goal is to deliver the best equipment for the best price. In some cases, that means an industry standard machine made in an ISO9001 factory in China or Italy. For more unique capabilities or customer requirements, they design and manufacture machines in their factory.

“There is a secret that no one wants to tell.” Added Mr. Cannon, “Packaging equipment is made with components from proven manufacturers around the world including electronic components from Japan and Germany, pumps from Italy or China, or gaskets and fittings from India or Yugoslavia. These components are combined and connected to make shiny new machines, and it has been that way for many years.”

Whether you are replacing a worn out piece of equipment or building a brand new bottling plant, the question to ask isn’t where is this equipment made. The question should be, will this machine perform the way I expect. At A Packaging Systems, they have started a new policy: Guaranteed Performance. In their literature and web site, www.apackaging.net, they show general capabilities for most machines. It is likely that specific products or containers are much different than the standard. So, when a customer purchases a filling machine, capping machine or other packaging equipment, A Packaging Systems sets it up in their laboratory and tests it using the customer’s product and containers to verify and certify the specific performance of that machine. Then they put it in writing, regardless of the country of origin of the machine.

For more information about the Performance Guarantee, contact A Packaging Systems, 235 Factory Street, LaPorte, Indiana. You can also call toll free at 866-369-9030 or visit www.apackaging.net.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:20 AM | Comments (0)

August 22, 2006

Pointer Wireless -- a Wireless Notification and Automation Company Launched

Pointer Wireless, an OEM provider of wireless notification and automation, is launched.

Centennial, CO (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- Pointer Industries LLC, announced the launch of Pointer Wireless LLC, a Colorado based Limited Liability Company. Pointer Wireless designs, manufactures and markets smart wireless automation products for various industry groups including: utilities, information technology, mass notification and emergency first responders.

"Pointer Wireless will address the sizable gap in expertise within the wireless notification/automation market. Our concentration initially will be in the utility remote wireless disconnect market and the wireless mass notification market where we believe a good bit of market share can be gain immediately due to our existing relationships with distributors and our forward thinking customer base," remarked Pointer Industries CEO and Chairman Jeff Bell. "Our initial product line will be available in early October 2006. In fact we have several entities that are just awaiting our product launch. So our potential backlog is already fairly substantial in the utility market. We also have several utilities knocking on the door for additional products we have in development -- those products will be launched during the first quarter of 2007. Our first meetings with the Mass Notification/First Responder industry clients have also been very successful with potential orders available as soon as the first products are available. I could not be more pleased with our initial acceptance into the market prior to the official launch of Pointer Wireless."

Pointer Wireless LLC is a Colorado Limited Liability Company based in Centennial, Colorado. Pointer Wireless is a Pointer Industries Company and is a Veteran Owned Small Business. Pointer Industries companies also include EOJT, a manufacturer of proprietary electronic countermeasure gear and Pointer Services an engineering and management consulting firm.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:28 AM | Comments (0)

Key Resource for Information Technology, Latest Edition of Business Direction Eastern Europe out Now

Business Direction Eastern Europe is key resource for professionals looking to make informed decisions about the content management tools they integrate into their business. With regional growth rates at historically high levels, BDEE is one resource information technology professionals cannot afford to be without.

Bristol (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) August 22, 2006 -- The definitive guide to new information technology and content management resources in Eastern Europe, Business Direction Eastern Europe (www.bdee.com) is out now. BDEE can help you answer all those difficult content management and information technology questions and inspire business to step to a higher level. BDEE is all about your business. A high-quality, bi-annual publication, it is the information resource business leaders refer to time and again.

The summer issue of BDEE is, as always, packed with ideas and insight into the content management scene designed to help business grow. Information technology is where most businesses, from multinational corporations to SMEs, are investing at the moment. But are they making the right decisions? BDEE has the answers.

We review the best PDAs and multifunction units on the market. In the pages of BDEE, we include interviews with the thought leaders in the content management industry, including Jule Limoli, President of Xerox, Jurgen Biffar, President of DocuWare, and Jaek Mikus, Comarch Business Solution Manager.

The summer issue takes a careful look at the content management environment in the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic remains a regional power, with business growth reaching unprecedented heights. Find out how a new generation of business people are prospering in an economy changing as fast as the information technology powering the transition.

With contributions from the world’s biggest companies, including Xerox, Canon, Microsoft, Kodak and Sharp, BDEE (www.bdee.com) provides a valuable insight in to business in the region, and it will allow executives to make informed and valuable decisions about which information technology and content management solutions they should integrate. BDEE is an innovator not an imitator: don't miss out.

Contact:
Lisa-Marie Carter
+44 (0)117 914 5106

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:27 AM | Comments (0)

Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. and Dynea Oy Release QualitySpec® OSB, a Platform for Real-Time Measurement of Product Quality in Composite Wood Products Manufacturing

Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. (ASD), a leading manufacturer of rapid, precision, analytical and quality control instruments, and Dynea Oy, one of the world’s leading providers of industrial adhesive systems, announce the release of the QualitySpec® OSB Vis/NIR spectroscopy system. The release follows the May 23rd announcement of a world-wide co-marketing agreement between the two companies and their intent to bring process improvement and savings to the producers of wood-based composite materials.

Boulder, CO (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. (ASD), a leading manufacturer of rapid, precision, analytical and quality control instruments, and Dynea Oy, one of the world’s leading providers of industrial adhesive systems, announce the release of the QualitySpec® OSB Vis/NIR spectroscopy system. The release follows the May 23rd announcement of a world-wide co-marketing agreement between the two companies and their intent to bring process improvement and savings to the producers of wood-based composite materials.

The QualitySpec® OSB system provides continuous on-line analysis of key product parameters. It is designed specifically for compatibility and full integration into existing communications with most plant IT systems enabling uninterrupted real-time analysis. This technology is the latest in world-class measurement tools for integrated on-line process monitoring and quality control, says Michael Lands, Director of Business Development for ASD. We are looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Dynea and manufacturers in the wood products industry.

The QualitySpec® OSB is a rapid, non-destructive, and post-dispersive style system with extremely low stray-light for more robust qualitative and quantitative applications. The QualitySpec® OSB system offers the NIR Cooled InGaAs TurboScanner™ technology from ASD. The industrial rated NEMA 4X housing includes several mounting configurations for maximum adaptability in extreme environmental conditions allowing for continuous monitoring of critical product parameters. The QualitySpec® OSB system also provides the capability to remotely monitor and trouble-shoot via the Internet. "By better control of product parameters, our customers are better positioned to reduce waste and down-grades, resulting in substantial cost savings," says Dr. Rob Schmidt, Dynea’s Senior Vice President of Market Applications.

The QualitySpec® OSB system will be on display for the first time at the International Wood Fair (IWF) 2006 in Atlanta, Georgia, August 23 through 26. Visit the conference website (http://www.iwf2006.com/Index.asp) for more information. To see a live demonstration of the system, or to speak with sales representatives, visit the Dynea booth, #307, at IWF.

Oriented strand board (OSB) is used most extensively in residential construction. To find out how the QualitySpec® OSB can be used in your application please contact Michael Lands, Director of Business Development (ASD) at (303) 444-6522 x133 or Claude Ostiguy, Technical Service Manager—OSB (Dynea) at (450) 430-2366 x219.

About ASD
Founded in 1990, Analytical Spectral Devices manufactures cost-effective, precision, transportable, field-portable, and on-line laboratory-quality Vis/NIR spectrometers, spectroradiometers, spectrophotometers and corresponding software and accessories. ASD’s instruments perform well in a range of environmental conditions, in and outside the laboratory, and have applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, analytical chemistry, mining, grain, food and dairy, remote sensing, pulp and paper industries world-wide. For more information, please contact Amanda Griffin, Analytical Spectral Devices, 5335 Sterling Dr., Suite A, Boulder, CO, 80301; (303) 444-6522, (303) 444-6825 (fax); www.asdi.com.

About Dynea
Dynea is a global provider of superior adhesion and surfacing solutions. In 2005, Dynea had annual sales of EUR 1.2 billion. Dynea has 52 production units in 26 countries in Europe, the Americas and the Asia Pacific region and employs some 3,000 persons. For more information, please contact Rob Schmidt, Senior Vice President Market Applications, North America, Mississauga, Canada, tel. +1-905-712-0900; or visit www.dynea.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:26 AM | Comments (0)

Spider Strategies, Inc. Announces Its 2006 Annual User Conference

Spider Strategies 2006 User Conference is a three day event highlighting major topics in performance management and business and government reporting.

Washington, D.C. (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Spider Strategies®, Inc., the cutting edge leader in performance management software, announced today the keynote lineup and theme for its 2006 Spider Strategies User Conference. "This year’s theme," according to Mike Griffin, a Partner with Spider Strategies, "is all about change. With the business world shifting daily around us, it’s important that we, at Spider, continue to change with it."

This year’s User Conference will highlight a change for Spider Strategies, as it releases its brand new performance management software system, the Corporate Management Suite. "This is going to be an exhilarating year for Spider and our users," stated Conor Crimmins, a Partner with Spider Strategies. "We are coming out with a completely new product, built from scratch. This is the first time since 2004 that we have gone back and built a product from scratch like this, and it is very exciting. We are going to take the opportunity at this year’s User Conference to highlight the new CMS product and show it off to our loyal customer base."

Along with demonstrations and training workshops on Spider Strategies’ new Corporate Management Suite, this year’s User Conference will feature exciting keynotes from industry and government leaders on topics pertinent to the changing face of performance management and business reporting.

Central to this year’s keynotes will be a presentation of the US Army Strategic Management System (SMS), powered by Spider Strategies, and how it is used to improve performance within an enterprise that has a yearly budget of $140 Billion. "Working with the US Army and the Strategy Management Division on SMS has been one of the single most rewarding experiences in my career," stated Griffin. "We are honored to be apart of the SMS team and are excited to have them present to our users." For more information about The US Army’s SMS system, powered by Spider Strategies, please visit: http://spiderstrategies.com/events/2006Conference/sms.html.

Along with the US Army Strategic Management System, Spider’s 2006 Conference will include presentations on the use of Spider Strategies software for support of the Multi-National Forces campaign in Iraq, as well as industry topics such as data automation and rules-based modeling.

"This year’s line up includes something for everyone. Whether you are interested in the IT infrastructure, training workshops, or learning more about how others are utilizing Spider’s software, this year’s User Conference is second to none," said Crimmins.

Spider Strategies User Conference is designed for those both currently using Spider Strategies software or interested in learning more about it. This year’s conference is October 4-6 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is open to the public. Registration is limited and only a certain number of public entry spots are available. For more information about Spider Strategies 2006 User Conference, visit: http://www.spiderstrategies.com/events/2006conference/

About Spider Strategies, Inc.
Spider Strategies, Inc., is a pioneering software company with offices in Washington, D.C., and St. Paul, MN. Spider Strategies helps corporations, government, and military organizations drive market-leading performance. For more information about Spider Strategies, its products or services, visit: http://www.spiderstrategies.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:25 AM | Comments (0)

Ryobi Die Casting Chooses e/pop Web and Video Conferencing for Online Meetings

Real-time collaboration provided by e/pop key to decreasing business travel and speed time-to-market for Ryobi products.

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 –- WiredRed®, a technology leader in real-time communications software, today announced that Ryobi Die Casting, one of the four companies owned by Ryobi Limited in Japan, has chosen and deployed e/pop® Web Conferencing for more efficient sales and marketing meetings, and to communicate more interactively with customers and its parent company in Japan. Ryobi Die Casting U.S., based in Shelbyville, Indiana, is a world-leading die casting manufacturer that supplies products to various industries, including cylinder blocks and transmission cases to the automobile industry.

Ryobi found out the benefits of web and video conferencing first hand after utilizing it on an as needed basis from a leading service provider. However, the company decided it was more cost-efficient to own and manage the use of its web and video communications in order to further reduce business travel required by the sales, marketing and engineering departments.

"We are very impressed with just how easy WiredRed’s e/pop is from an end-user perspective and I am also extremely pleased that it was so simple to install and deploy," said William Baker, IS/NT Group Manager for Ryobi Die Casting. "Anyone in the company can use e/pop regardless of their technical expertise. Sharing documents is as simple as a couple of mouse clicks."

The Production Quality Engineers (PQE) at Ryobi Die Casting will utilize e/pop to meet online with customers located all over the world to discuss and edit design plans, and with the use of high quality web cameras, the engineers will be able to troubleshoot die cast part design issues remotely – a task that previously required an on-site visit.

Because e/pop requires only a standard PC with a high-speed Internet connection, Ryobi Die Casting U.S. in Indiana can also meet "on-the-fly" with the Ryobi headquarters in Japan from anywhere and at anytime.

"So far, our sales and marketing teams have started using e/pop for meetings and customer presentations," added Baker. "We plan to roll the system out to engineering, including our Product Quality Engineers and other departments before this fall."

About WiredRed
WiredRed Software is a technology leader in real-time communications. The Company's secure, multipoint routing technology powers its e/pop product line, which includes multiparty video conferencing, web conferencing and secure IM software. All e/pop products are designed to provide busy, security-conscious IT staff in business, government and education with fast and easy to maintain solutions compatible with their existing networks.

More than 3,500 commercial and government customers are using e/pop software. Customer installations include ADP, Florida Rock, Tindall Corporation, D.H. Pace, Mercury Insurance, Baker & McKenzie, Merrill Lynch, The Members Group, Scottrade and Wells Fargo. e/pop has also been deployed throughout hundreds of schools, as well as local, state and federal government agencies including the U.S. Army, U.S. National Guard, Bureau of Land Management, National Institute of Health, Department of the Interior, and State of California, Health Services. The company licenses its software to corporate and government IT organizations and a growing network of business partners.

For more information, visit the WiredRed web site at http://www.wiredred.com, or contact the company directly at +1-858-715-0970.

e/pop and WiredRed are registered trademarks of WiredRed Software.
All other marks are property of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:24 AM | Comments (0)

Libbey Glass Opens Distribution Center in Shreveport, Louisiana

General contractor Bob Moore Construction Company has completed a new 646,000 SF distribution center in Shreveport Louisiana for tenant Libbey Glass and developer First Industrial Realty Trust. The new distribution center is 646,000 SF and is expandable to one million SF.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- General contractor Bob Moore Construction Company has completed a 646,000 SF distribution center in Shreveport Louisiana for Libbey Glass.

The new distribution center consolidates services previously provided by six buildings. It will service the southeast and lower mid-western states, along with the company's export business south of the U.S. and into Europe.

The distribution center is 646,000 SF, expandable to one million SF. Office space comprises 10,000 SF of the building; the remaining space houses product racks and 59 shipping bays.

"We needed a larger capacity facility, under one roof," said Don Pendergrass, Shreveport Logistics Manager for Libbey Glass. "Libbey is also implementing a new Warehouse Management System. The system optimizes shipping and receiving functions when used in one big box instead of six separate buildings. This allows Libbey's Shreveport Warehouse and Shipping operation to function more effectively and efficiently in servicing our customers."

Hardy McCullah / MLM Architects was the architect for the new distribution center. First Industrial Realty Trust was the developer.

"For those who have seen both the inside and outside of this building, the response has generally been the same: 'Wow,'" said Pendergrass. "Libbey is moving into a first class facility."

"This project was exciting for us," said Ed McGuire, Vice President of Construction for Bob Moore Construction. "We took great pride in creating a building for a renowned company like Libbey. We have an excellent history with First Industrial Realty Trust as well."

"Bob Moore Construction is an impressive company," said Pendergrass. "Anyone who has dealt with the construction of such a facility knows how tough it can be. They made it look easy. They ran a tight ship, holding their crews and subcontractors to a high standard. Their professionalism goes more than skin deep; it's part of their culture. President Phillip Bell, Vice President of Construction Ed McGuire and Site Superintendent Stacy Langston are all exceptional individuals."

Bob Moore Construction Company has provided photos of the Libbey Distribution Center in Shreveport, Louisiana at http://www.generalcontractor.com/photos/libbey/

About Bob Moore Construction
A recipient of the QUOIN / AGC General Contractor of the Year Award and the QUOIN / AGC Summit Award for Construction Excellence, Bob Moore Construction company has been one of the most respected commercial construction companies in Texas since 1946. Bob Moore Construction is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2006. The general contractor's portfolio includes a wide range of buildings, from warehouses and distribution centers to office buildings and retail stores. Whether it is providing general contractor, design / build or construction management services, Bob Moore Construction's goal remains the same: to deliver quality construction projects on time and in budget. Bob Moore Construction company has been showcased on http://www.ConstructionCompany.com, a website that recognizes some of the top ranked construction companies and commercial contractors in the United States. http://www.GeneralContractor.com is the best source of information about the commercial construction company, its projects and more.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:23 AM | Comments (0)

National Academy of Sciences Report Confirms that Biomonitoring Data Can Be Used to Show Average Phthalate Exposure is Below Safety Levels

National Academy of Sciences Report Shows That Biomonitoring Data Can Be Interpreted to Indicate if Phthalates Pose a Potential Health Risk. Report is Also Critical of Testing Done as a Publicity Stunt.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) has issued a report on biomonitoring – the practice of testing human blood, urine, or other fluids for the presence of environmental chemicals. The goal of biomonitoring is to understand the public health implications of exposure to chemicals or to the chemical presented in the body. The report reaches the conclusion that all responsible students of the newly developing science gain – the ability to generate biomonitoring data that often exceeds the ability to know what the data mean in a health risk context.

For phthalates, the message of the new report is good. The 14-member NAS committee lists phthalates as one of those families of chemicals for which it is possible to know the significance of the data. That is, biomonitoring data can be interpreted to indicate if phthalates pose a potential health risk. The NAS report notes that scientists can in many instances "…convert the biomonitoring data into a format that can be used as exposure information in risk assessments."

Phthalates are listed as one of the families of chemicals that have been studied enough to make that assessment possible. Scientists know how the human body breaks down and excretes the phthalates that enter it. And there is a formula for converting the level of excreted breakdown products into an assessment of how much of the phthalate was taken into the body to begin with. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has tested more than 5,000 people for a large number of chemicals, including phthalates. The phthalate data can be converted into corresponding actual exposures, and then compared to safety levels (Environmental Protection Agency reference values) established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The result: average exposure levels are far below the EPA reference values .

The NAS is gently critical of publicity-stunt testing done by pressure groups and some newspapers. It notes that "…news-media reports present stories of people who have had their blood tested and are alarmed to learn that it contains hundreds of chemicals. For a number of those chemicals, scientific data could enable interpretation of individual measurements in comparison with validated reference values, but usually the interpretation stops with the mere observation that the chemical is present." Of those pressure groups and newspapers that have analyzed blood or urine from a few subjects, we are not aware of any that went on to advise their audiences that generally accepted procedures exist to determine whether levels of phthalates and some other chemicals presented an actual risk to their health.

About The Phthalate Esters Panel
The Phthalate Esters Panel (the Panel) of the American Chemistry Council is composed of all major manufacturers and some users of the primary phthalate esters in commerce in the United States. Panel members include: BASF Corporation, Eastman Chemical Company, ExxonMobil Chemical Company, and Ferro Corporation. Teknor Apex Company, a major user of the materials, is an associate member. For more information visit the Phthalates Information Center .

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:22 AM | Comments (0)

Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. Releases QualitySpec® iP, a Unique Hybrid Spectroscopy System for On-line Process and Quality Control

Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. (ASD), a leading manufacturer of rapid, precision, analytical and quality control instruments introduces the QualitySpec® iP Vis/NIR spectroscopy system, the newest world-class measurement tool for integrated on-line process monitoring and quality control. The QualitySpec® iP provides continuous on-line analysis of key product parameters. It is designed specifically for compatibility and full integration into existing communications with most plant IT systems enabling uninterrupted real-time analysis. The QualitySpec® iP system is ideally suited to a growing list of applications for solids, powders, slurries, and liquids in many forms, in a variety of markets addressing raw and in-process materials all the way through final product.

Boulder, CO (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Analytical Spectral Devices, Inc. (ASD), a leading manufacturer of rapid, precision, analytical and quality control instruments introduces the QualitySpec® iP Vis/NIR spectroscopy system, the newest world-class measurement tool for integrated on-line process monitoring and quality control. The QualitySpec® iP provides continuous on-line analysis of key product parameters. It is designed specifically for compatibility and full integration into existing communications with most plant IT systems enabling uninterrupted real-time analysis. The QualitySpec® iP system is ideally suited to a growing list of applications for solids, powders, slurries, and liquids in many forms, in a variety of markets addressing raw and in-process materials all the way through final product.

The QualitySpec® iP is a rapid, non-destructive, and post-dispersive style system with extremely low stray-light for more robust qualitative and quantitative applications. The QualitySpec® iP system offers the NIR Cooled InGaAs TurboScanner™ technology from ASD. The industrial rated NEMA 4X housing includes several mounting configurations for maximum adaptability in extreme environmental conditions allowing for continuous monitoring of critical product parameters. ASD’s wide array of sampling head options offer superior flexibility, making the QualitySpec® iP system an incredibly powerful tool for simultaneous multiple component analysis in a wide range of requirements. The QualitySpec® iP system also provides the capability to remotely monitor and trouble-shoot via the Internet.

To find out how the QualitySpec® iP can be used in your application please contact Michael Lands, Director of Business Development at (303) 444-6522 x133.

About ASD
Founded in 1990, Analytical Spectral Devices manufactures cost-effective, precision, transportable, field-portable, and on-line laboratory-quality Vis/NIR spectrometers, spectroradiometers, spectrophotometers and corresponding software and accessories. ASD’s instruments perform well in a range of environmental conditions, in and outside the laboratory, and have applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, analytical chemistry, mining, grain, food and dairy, remote sensing, pulp and paper industries world-wide. For more information, please contact Amanda Griffin, Analytical Spectral Devices, 5335 Sterling Dr., Suite A, Boulder, CO, 80301; (303) 444-6522, (303) 444-6825 (fax); www.asdi.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:20 AM | Comments (0)

Free Trial of Energy Lens Gives Businesses an Easy Way to Cut Their Energy Bills

BizEE Software has released a free trial of its Energy Lens software, giving businesses a free opportunity to start saving energy through energy management. The company is confident that a free 30-day trial of its energy management solution will enable businesses to cut their energy bills by up to 20 percent.

(PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Energy Lens is an energy management solution to help businesses save energy. Whilst energy management software packages have traditionally boasted the quantity and breadth of features that they offer, Energy Lens aims to lower the barrier-to-entry of energy management by focusing on those areas that help businesses to make the greatest energy savings for the least effort. BizEE Software Director Martin Bromley explains further:

"Energy Lens makes it easy to analyze half-hourly energy data, which most businesses can easily obtain from their energy supplier. Half-hourly data is invaluable for energy management because of the detail that it contains. Unlike daily, weekly, or monthly energy data, half-hourly data actually allows a business to see how much energy they're using at particular times on particular days -- vital for spotting days and times at which energy is routinely wasted. A quick analysis using Energy Lens, typically once a month, can deliver an outstanding level of energy savings."

Energy Lens is targeted at businesses that don't have the resource or inclination to make energy management somebody's full-time job. The software aims to be very easy-to-use, and it comes with help-files that give straightforward instructions on how to use the software to save energy in a real-world business.

BizEE Software is confident that Energy Lens is easy enough for businesses to make significant energy savings, even within the free 30-day trial period. Martin Bromley explains the steps:

"First you should visit the Energy Lens website (http://www.energylens.com/) to download the free trial. Next, contact your electricity supplier and ask them to send you your last year's worth of half-hourly data. If your gas supply is on a half-hourly meter, do likewise. Use the free 30-day trial of Energy Lens to analyze your half-hourly data to find where your business is routinely wasting energy. Read the help-files that come with the software for information on how to identify energy wastage from the charts that Energy Lens generates. Once you've discovered routine energy wastage, take steps to prevent it from occurring again."

The free trial of Energy Lens is available for download from http://www.energylens.com/. Once the 30-day trial has expired, businesses have the option of purchasing the software for $495, £295, or €435. The purchased software allows continued use of Energy Lens for a regular routine of half-hourly data analysis. This enables businesses to quantify improvements in their energy-performance, to ensure that their energy-saving measures remain effective, and to continue finding and pursuing further opportunities to save energy.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:19 AM | Comments (0)

Nester Software Introduces the NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite

Delivers a complete solution to help upholstery furniture manufacturers increase productivity

Atlanta, Georgia (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Presenting at the 2006 IWF show, Nester Software has announced the release of the NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite, a complete solution for improving furniture manufacturing productivity.

The NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite provides upholstery manufacturers with a complete set of solutions to streamline production processes, expedite manufacturing cycles, and reduce product cost.

“Manufacturers are realizing that in order to compete in today’s global environment, they need to move away from point solutions and address production efficiency in a more holistic manner,” said Elery Pfeffer, President of Nester Software. “The NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite enables manufacturers to implement a complete solution, yet it is modular enough so each company can do it in an incremental fashion based on resources and capabilities.”

The NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite includes the following solutions:

NESTERwood™ Optimizer 6.0
Manufacturers using earlier releases of Nester’s industry leading software solution report 10-20% increase in material utilization, higher machine throughput, and overall increased productivity. The latest release of NESTERwood Optimizer introduces new capabilities to further increase material yields and production efficiencies.

NESTERwood’s Rolling Nest automatically optimizes the placement of pieces from multiple kits on multiple sheets of plywood, resulting in material yields that are consistently higher than any other solution. NESTERwood Optimizer 6.0 introduces two enhancements to the Rolling Nest capabilities. Horizontal Rolling Nest enables a single plywood sheet to be divided horizontally in order to better optimize the placement of multiple kits. Also new in version 6.0, a single sheet can now be divided to accommodate more than two kits.

Another unique capability of NESTERwood Optimizer is the ability to learn from experience to continuously improve nesting results. Version 6.0 provides faster self-learning capabilities that help manufacturers reach higher material utilization quicker than ever before.

NESTERwood™ Production Expert
NESTERwood Production Expert combines a simple hand-held barcode reader and a customized version of the powerful communication suite PC DNC Plus to significantly reduce cutting errors. Providing the machine operator with an error-proof method to eliminate double-cutting and missed cuts, NESTERwood Production Expert enables frame manufacturers to improve production accuracy and speed while reducing material waste.

Using a barcode reader, the router operator can retrieve the manufacturing order and the corresponding G-code directly from NESTERwood Optimizer. This eliminates the need for manual keying of critical cut information and the risk of introducing errors in the process. Once the barcode is scanned, Production Expert feeds the G-code files produced by NESTERwood Optimizer directly to the relevant routers.

NESTERwood™ Costing
NESTERwood Costing enables furniture manufacturers to easily and accurately predict the cost of production. Based on real-life nesting and tool path efficiencies, it automatically calculates material consumption, machine cutting time, and the labor required for each piece. It even takes into consideration the efficiencies gained with higher quantities to derive cost per unit at different production volume scenarios.

NESTERwood™ Reporting
NESTERwood Reporting module helps managers get real-time actionable data directly from their production operation systems. Armed with these reports, managers can quickly analyze trends, spot exceptions, and take proactive steps to stir production towards the most efficient strategies. Reports provided by NESTERwood Reporting include:

• Material Consumption Report - information on material consumption and cost
• Kit Analysis Report - information on kit quantities as well as material and labor costs
• Machine Analysis Report - analysis of material and labor used per machine
• Operator Analysis Report - analysis of operator productivity
• Production Exceptions Report - highlights the highest and lowest cost kits

In addition to the reports available out-of-the-box, additional reports can be custom built using the NESTERwood Reporting platform to address any data analysis and managerial information need.

The complete NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite is now available from Nester Software and through authorized resellers worldwide. For more information about the NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite, visit http://www.nestersoftware.com/showpage.asp?id=800.

About Nester Software
Nester Software is the leading provider of production optimization solutions for manufacturers of engineered wood, foam, textile, and metal products in the apparel, furniture, transportation, and other industries. The NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite enables upholstery manufacturers to be more competitive by increasing material utilization, improving machine productivity, and shortening manufacturing cycle times. NESTERwood is used by leading upholstery manufacturers worldwide, including Airline Manufacturing, Bassett Furniture, Century Furniture, Drexel Heritage, Ethan Allen, and Southern Furniture. For more information, visit www.NesterSoftware.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:18 AM | Comments (0)

Woman and Her Horse are Protesting at the Gates of WYETH PHARMACEUTICALS IN MADISON, NJ

SAVING THE INNOCENTS: A journey to the source to say “NEIGH” to PREMARIN On Monday, August 21st, Heather Evans from the Live and Let Live Farm, an Equine Rescue facility in Chichester, NH, will arrive at the Wyeth Pharmaceuticals’ Headquarters in Madison, NJ, in an effort to raise awareness about the cruelty to horses in the production of Wyeth-Ayerst’s PREMARIN. PREMARIN is a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), used to treat menopausal or post-hysterectomy women and it is made from PREgnant MARe urINe.

Madison, NJ (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- On Monday, August 21st, Heather Evans from the Live and Let Live Farm, an Equine Rescue facility in Chichester, NH, will arrive at the Wyeth Pharmaceuticals’ Headquarters in Madison, NJ, in an effort to raise awareness about the cruelty to horses in the production of Wyeth-Ayerst’s PREMARIN. PREMARIN is a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), used to treat menopausal or post-hysterectomy women and it is made from PREgnant MARe urINe.

To produce Premarin, pregnant mares are hooked up to rubber urine-collection bags and tethered in stalls so small they cannot even turn around or lay down comfortably. They are forced to stay in this position for 6 months, while their bodies are producing the most estrogen. They are also deprived of sufficient water, in order to maintain the concentrated estrogen in the urine. Within days of giving birth in the spring, the mares are re-impregnated. Fertile mares may go through this process many times, over years in their lifetime.

The foals---all but a few kept for stud purposes or to replace worn-out mares, are sold at auction. From there, most go to feedlots to be fattened for slaughter. The mares too are slaughtered once they can no longer become pregnant or if they become too lame to stand in the small stalls.

Up until November of 2005, Live and Let Live Farm was one of many rescue havens that were pre-adopting these foals and mares in advance of them being sent to auction/slaughter. However, the pharmaceutical company Wyeth reneged on the last load of animals that were pre-adopted and have canceled the program. Now, all farmers must take their offspring to auction, where most are purchased for slaughter to provide meat, a delicacy in European countries, or lose their subsidy from the drug company.

Heather Evans has chosen to fight a brave fight on behalf of these innocent animals, and urge women to choose a synthetic estrogen alternative to Premarin. She has raised money to support her trip through generous donations and the support of the Live and Let Live Farm’s philanthropic network. Heather, along with her horse Tux, will travel to Wyeth’s campus in Madison, NJ to urge Wyeth to change their policy and allow equine rescue facilities to save the by-product of their drug production, the baby horses.
Heather hopes to return home with the peace of mind that Premarin mares and foals can be placed in loving homes and saved from sure death. If Wyeth should refuse to change their view, Heather will continue on to Texas or Illinois, where the auctions are held, most often attended by meat-buyers, and buy as many babies as possible with the money raised to support her ‘Saving the Innocents’ project. Donations have been coming in regularly through her website at www.savingtheinnocents.com and the non-profit equine rescue Live and Let Live Farm at www.liveandletlivefarm.org

Heather began her project on May 21st, 2006 with a walk from New Hampshire to Manitoba, Canada, where most of the Premarin ‘Pee’ farms are located. She had to end her journey in July due to a foot injury, but has chosen ‘Plan B’ as an alternative. Heather has been greeted by media coverage and the kindness of strangers since the beginning. The generosity has been astounding.

If you would like to meet Heather and Tux, you will find them beginning Monday, August 21st, 2006 at Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, 5 Giralda Farms, Madison, NJ.

To learn more about ‘Saving the Innocents’, Premarin, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit: www.savingtheinnocents.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:17 AM | Comments (0)

Tri-State PDMA Seminar: Building Your Innovation Network--September 28, 2006 Rutgers School of Management Director Gene Slowinski, Ph.D. is Keynote

Day-long seminar by national experts about forming innovation alliances between companies. Speed time to market and reduce cost for best-in-class solutions. Companies featured include: Ethicon Endo-Surgery (JNJ), GE Aviation (GE), DuPont (DD), and Harris Corporation (HRS-WI). For discount subscribe by 9/8/200G at www.tristatepdma.com

Cincinnati, Ohio (PRWEB) August 23, 2006 -- The Tri-State chapter of the Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) announces a conference on Open Innovation, exploring how companies can build value-added collaborative networks of customers, suppliers and partners to cut cost and speed time to market. Gene Slowinski, Ph.D., author of The Strongest Link: Forging a Profitable and Enduring Corporate Alliance and Director, Strategic Alliance Research, Rutgers School of Management will give the keynote address on “Reinventing Corporate Growth: Road Warrior or Road Kill, It’s Your Choice.”

In addition to Dr. Slowinski, speakers include:
• Frank Evan, Director of Business Development at NineSigma – “Connecting with External Technology Partners Using Open Networks”
• Ed Jenkins, Director of International Development at Ethicon Endo-Surgery (a Johnson & Johnson Company) – “Fueling External Innovation”
• Robert Gruetzmacher, Director of Technology Commercialization at the DuPont Center for Collaborative Research and Education – “The Growing Evolution of the University/Company Interface”
• David Linger, Manager of Technology Marketing and Licensing at GE/Aviation – “A Technology Transfer Process for Driving Organic Growth”

Registration: www.tristatepdma.com
Media contact: Kathleen Riehle 513-608-0395

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:16 AM | Comments (0)

CV Technology: Now Manufacturing Explosion Protection Products in the USA

CV Technology, a leader in the prevention and control of industrial dust explosion, has announced that it will now be manufacturing their own key products in the USA, allowing better prices and faster deliveries.

(PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Florida based, CV Technology, a leader in the prevention and control of industrial dust explosion, has announced that it will now be manufacturing their own key products in the USA. Taking control of their own manufacturing allows the company to be even more responsive to the needs of their customers. With this important step, CV Technology’s customers can expect even better service effective immediately.

Engineering services coupled with unique products have always been a hallmark of CV Technology. The company’s success is strongly founded on the concept of offering total solutions for companies that have a high risk of explosion. Explosion risk is present in all factories and manufacturing plants where temperatures reach the ignition point. It is especially high in companies that process powder, dry bulk materials, or produce an excessive amount of dust.

CV Technology’s strategy starts with conducting a risk analysis of the process to identify the areas where a dust explosion could occur. Once the risk elements are identified, all available options are considered. Priorities are set to conform to scheduling requirements and other restrictions. Implementation of the selected protection scheme is supported with full documentation and installation is typically supervised by CV Technology. CV Technology also provides training, an essential part of implementation, for all on-site projects.

Only CV Technology, by taking this holistic approach, provides its clients with the peace of mind that their protection scheme would be effective if the worst happens. With a strong bias for passive systems, CV Technology has established an enviable track record of providing effective protection while also minimizing the possibility for process intrusions due to required maintenance or false triggers.

These fundamentals will not change. The announcement that CV Technology is manufacturing many of their own explosion protection systems in the USA, means the company can provide their customers with several important benefits; including better prices and faster deliveries. CV Technology has always received high marks for customer service and satisfaction. This announcement solidifies their commitment to be the best in the business.

Individual products will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information on dust explosion protection, prevention, and mitigation, please visit the company’s website: www.cvtechnology.com">www.cvtechnology.com

More Information:
CV TECHNOLOGY, INC
2580 Metrocentre Boulevard
Suite 1
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
USA
Phone: (561) 683 - 1200
Web: www.cvtechnology.com">www.cvtechnology.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:15 AM | Comments (0)

Impact Force Gauges - New Products from Mecmesin

Throughout Europe power-driven gates and doors must be tested to ensure that the installation meets the requirements of EN12445 and EN12453. Within the UK, impact force gauges designed specifically for such testing can now be obtained from Mecmesin.

(PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Mecmesin is pleased to announce a significant enhancement to its extensive range of force measurement instrumentation. Within the UK the Microtronics impact force gauge range for testing automated doors and gates can be obtained exclusively via Mecmesin.

When a power-operated door, gate or barrier is installed, the force with which this might strike an operator or bystander is a critical safety feature. New European test methods EN12445 and EN12453 are recognised as being industry standards for evaluating the performance of power-driven gates and doors. Indeed since May 2005 it has been obligatory throughout the European Community for automatic doors and gates to carry the appropriate CE mark.

Microtronics impact force meters automatically: detect a trigger force, measure force as a function of time for six seconds, calculate the parameters required to characterise the impact event, and store results for up to 50 tests. These stored values: the ‘dynamic force’, the ‘dynamic time’, the ‘static force’, and the ‘final force’ can be displayed on the gauge, or archived to a PC via a serial cable or Bluetooth wireless communication.

David Wilde, sales director of Mecmesin, has commented “As the automated door and gate industry recognises the need to maintain the highest level of safety and performance by testing its installed products, the easy-to-use ‘Blue Force’ and ‘Speed Force’ portable testers provide a truly unrivalled performance at an affordable price."

Diego Biason, general director of Microtronics adds, “We are proud that a company like Mecmesin, which has a well-established reputation as a force measurement specialist, has chosen to become our distributor in the UK. This is another confirmation that the quality of Microtronics’s products is appreciated throughout Europe. Besides, we are sure that the joint venture between Microtronics and Mecmesin, will bring benefits for our companies, as long as our efforts will be focused to improve both the instrument and the service to our valued UK customers.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:14 AM | Comments (0)

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Overview for Healthcare Training Classes Available from HSS

Attend a Lean Sigma for Healthcare training class, for only $25 per person, to learn about the basics of Lean Six Sigma, how these tools and techniques were used recently in an anti-coagulation clinic project, and how they can help reduce healthcare costs when applied effectively.

Orlando, FL (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Healthcare System Solutions (HSS) has recently scheduled Lean Sigma training classes in Iowa and Florida, with more locations to come.

The course is recommended for all medical staff working in a pharmacy or anti-coagulation clinic, healthcare workers looking for real-life examples of Lean Sigma projects, and anyone in general who is interested in learning more about Lean Sigma.

The course will last three hours, with the first hour covering the Lean Sigma project. The last two hours will be the Lean Sigma training material, with interactive simulations performed with the class. Attendees will receive a free training manual with course contents.

To find class locations, or to sign up for the course, please visit the HSS website: http:www.healthcaresystemsolutions.com

In addition to class registration on the website, project
summary presentations can be downloaded for free, for those unable to attend the class in person.

HSS is a Lean Sigma consulting and software development company with numerous years of quality expertise in the software, military, healthcare, automotive, and aerospace industries. The HSS mission is to support the integration of quality solutions into the healthcare industry through the development of software systems and business performance analysis, in an easy to understand format.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:13 AM | Comments (0)

Electro-Optix Opens a New Online Store, www.electro-optix.com, Your Source for High Quality Optical Tools and Magnifiers

Electro-Optix announces its new online store, we supply to the industrial, medical, retail, governmental and low vision markets. The site address is www.electro-optix.com.

Pompano Beach, FL (PRWEB) August 22, 2006 -- Electro-Optix announces its new online store, we supply to the industrial, medical, retail, governmental and low vision markets. The site address is www.electro-optix.com.

Our product line includes a full line of illuminated magnifiers, thermometers, hygrometers, optical tools and vision aid products. Throughout our history we have been a contract manufacturer for many of the best known companies in the industry, and have the capabilities to provide high quality, cost competitive, private labeled products. Originally founded in Brooklyn, New York, the Electro-Optix production facility and offices were relocated to South Florida in the 1970's. We are proud to continue to make products that are “Made in the USA.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:12 AM | Comments (0)

Tribune Plans Global Expansion of its Service and Change Management Technology and Services

Tribune US, Inc. will be exhibiting a new version of BMS, an enterprise solution that delivers a powerful business intelligence portal, along with other unique technology solutions and services at CIFTEE 2006 in Beijing September 17-20, 2006 as part of its international expansion efforts.

Haymarket, VA (PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -- Tribune US, Inc. announced today that it will participate in CIFTEE (China International Exhibition on Financial Banking Technology and Equipment) as part of the U.S. Commercial Service's American Pavillion, September 17-20, 2006 in Beijing as part of Tribune's global expansion efforts.

Tribune Business Systems Ltd. has provided organizational management solutions to business, government and non-profit organizations since 1993 to clients throughout North America, United Arab Emirates, Australia and Europe.

Tribune’s uniquely positioned solutions drive competitive organization improvement through the delivery of key business information in small, medium and large organizations.

Process Expert, a multi-level process mapping tool allows organizations to document and share processes for better management control as well as regulatory and policy compliance.

The BMS solution delivers a powerful web portal to aggregate, analyze, manage and disseminate business documents and performance metrics for continuous improvement and benchmarking.

Metrix establishes a benchmark to drive continuous improvement while providing a means to professionally measure and manage change.

Michael Bender, Executive Vice President of Tribune US, Inc. and Director of International Business Development, Tribune Business Systems, Ltd. said that: "Our solutions encourage a process approach and best practices for many organizational processes ranging from risk assessment to procurement to customer service. We also provide the expertise to train, implement and support organizations to be process driven." He added that "We emphasize business strategy, delivering technology solutions balancing business, technical and project skills providing our customers maximum flexibility and enhancing their IT infrastructure. Our participation in CIFTEE is one more step in broadening our international customer base."

For further information on products, partnering, or distribution, please visit www.tribune-us.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 06:11 AM | Comments (0)

IMG Americas Appoints Eric Worth as SAP Business One Solutions Director in North America; Worth Will Also Manage New IMG Office in New York City

IMG Americas has named Eric Worth as SAP® Business One solutions director in North America. SAP Business One is SAP’s affordable integrated business management solution for which IMG Americas is an authorized reseller in North America as well as a global implementation partner. Worth an SAP industry veteran, will also head up IMG Americas’ newly-opened offices in New York City, serving clients in Northeast region.

Kennett Square, PA (PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -- The Information Management Group (IMG), a provider of innovative business engineering services, today announced Eric Worth as SAP® Business One solutions director in North America. SAP Business One is SAP’s affordable integrated business management solution for which IMG Americas is an authorized reseller in North America as well as a global implementation partner. Worth an SAP industry veteran, will also head up IMG Americas’ newly-opened offices in New York City, serving clients in Northeast region.

"Eric has deep domain expertise in SAP solutions delivery and his appointment demonstrates our commitment to SAP Business One users in North America as well those US companies with global subsidiaries," said Larry Perlov, vice president of IMG’s global SAP Business One division. "As a subject matter expert in business change management, business engineering, distribution, and discrete manufacturing, professional services, and retail sectors he further strengthens our A Team of SAP Business One implementation gurus," continued Pelov, "Furthermore, he’s acquired this experience in the small and midsize enterprise (SME) space where IMG has a strategic focus."

Bringing over 15 years of business consulting and software products expertise to IMG Americas, Worth was most recently with American Express where he served as the SAP liaison, led the professional services team at American Express Tax and Business Services, Inc., and created the American Express Alliance Program. Prior to American Express, he founded and operated Newvisions, a business consultancy for early-stage companies and Value Added Reseller of Platinum Software, Macola, Great Plains, Epicor and MAS500. Focusing on information systems implementation, Worth has led successful teams in a range of industries spanning consumer products, professional services, retail, and manufacturing. An industry expert in the SME market and vertical-industry software, Worth has authored articles on these topics for industry magazines such as CRN, Retail Toady, and VAR Magazine. The recipient of SAP Business One Awards including Best VAR and Best ISV Partner, Worth has also been a featured speaker at numerous SAP events. Worth has served on various advisory boards and earned his Accounting and Computer Sciences degrees from C.W. Post University. A resident of New York, Worth will lead IMG Business One programs in the Northeast from newly-opened offices in New York City at 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020. Tel: +1 646 756 2871.

About IMG
The Information Management Group (IMG) is a leading global provider of innovative business engineering services for small and midsize companies that want business results from their SAP solutions. Specializing in consulting services that align people, processes, and systems with strategies, IMG is a certified SAP Partner with hundreds of successful SAP implementations worldwide. Founded in 1989, IMG is headquartered in St. Gallen, Switzerland and employs over 600 professionals throughout Europe, Asia, the United Kingdom and the United States. IMG Americas is headquartered outside Philadelphia and has offices in the Greater Boston, Chicago, and New York City areas as well as in Atlanta (GA) and Mountain View (CA). For more information on IMG Americas, call +1 888 446 4872. URL: www.img.com.

All product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:55 AM | Comments (0)

PNC Introduces Advanced Remote Deposit Service For Business

PNC is offering, for the first time, the next-generation lockbox technology that simplifies collection of business-to-business payments and offers faster deposit

(PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -- PNC is offering, for the first time, an innovative online receivables feature for businesses that can reduce expenses associated with sending overnight packages to collection facilities [lockboxes and that applies payments faster - same-day - to corporate bank accounts. PNC’s new Remittance OnSite is a new application of check scanning technology combined with advanced lockbox technology.

Large and mid-size businesses that receive large dollar checks as payment from other businesses/customers traditionally off-load the time-consuming process of opening envelopes, extracting content then tracking and recording payment information to third-party collection facilities, known as lockboxes. Yet, some large dollar payments still get addressed and mailed to corporate offices. These payments traditionally require transport via costly overnight mail or courier service to the lockbox facility, delaying processing and access to the funds.

With an "off-the-shelf" document scanner and a desktop computer, businesses can now scan both sides of any check received at corporate offices as well as all of the attached documents, including remittance slips, invoices, hand-written notes and the envelope. Using new technology, PNC will convert the scanned documents into images that are electronically transmitted directly to one of PNC’s seven national lockbox facilities.

Without any delay or costs for transport, the images of the payment are received at the lockbox facility and processed along with the other incoming paper and electronic payments. Processing includes the deposit of funds into customers’ accounts and consolidation of all payment information into one streamlined accounts receivable file that is available to customers’ for review online same-day.

"As a leader in lockbox imaging technology since 2000, PNC has demonstrated the value to our corporate customers of removing the paper from the cash application process, converting most of our corporate customers [75 percent to imaging technology that saves valuable time in applying payments to accounts," said James Graham, executive vice president and head of PNC’s treasury management services. "PNC is leading the industry again, offering cutting-edge technology that adds an innovative ‘receivables’ capability to what is broadly touted as remote deposit and puts that capability right into the hands of our corporate customers."

PNC owns and operates the third largest nationwide wholesale lockbox network in the U.S. with collection facilities located in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Remittance Onsite is an advanced feature within PNC’s comprehensive receivables service, A/R Advantage.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. www.pnc.com)">(www.pnc.com) is one of the nation’s largest diversified financial services organizations providing retail and business banking; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management; asset management and global fund services.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:54 AM | Comments (0)

Invensys Awarded Multimillion Dollar Automation Contract for Grassroots Laffan Refinery Project in Qatar

Invensys (http://www.invensys.com/ps)to provide automation systems, asset management applications, and services to help maximize operational efficiency, safety, and business performance at new 146,000 barrel per day condensate refinery

Foxboro, MA (PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -– Engineering Procurement Contractor, GSEC of Seoul, Korea, has awarded Invensys Process Systems (http://www.invensys.com/ps) a multimillion dollar automation contract to provide an integrated process control, safety, asset management, and plant information system solution for the grassroots Laffan Refinery under construction at the Ras Laffan City in Qatar. Once operational in 2008, the refinery will process approximately 146,000 barrels per day of gas condensates from the adjacent QatarGas and RasGas LNG liquefaction facilities, making it one of the world’s largest condensate refineries.

"Important grassroots refinery projects such as the Laffan Refinery don’t come along very often and Invensys is honored to have been selected as automation supplier," commented Ken Brown, president of Invensys Process Systems. "Once again, Invensys’ proven track record in successfully implementing projects of this scale anywhere in the world, combined with our ability to deliver a well-integrated process control, safety, asset management, and plant information solution, were key factors."
Invensys’ broad scope of supply for the project will include:

• Foxboro’s latest Mesh Control Network-based I/A Series process control system technology (encompassing approximately 5,000 intelligent I/O points plus approximately 2,000 serial points integrated largely via OPC
• Triconex triple-modular-redundant (TMR) technology for both the safety instrumented system (SIS) and the fire and gas (F&G) protection systems
• Avantis.PRO maintenance management software integrated with the automation systems to help balance asset availability and utilization
• Invensys’ award-winning real-time equipment Condition Monitoring (CM) solution to facilitate highly effective predictive maintenance techniques
• Invensys’ advanced refinery and offsites applications for refinery order management and product movement monitoring, tank farm information, and movement line-up and execution
• third-party real-time plant database and production scheduling applications
• associated engineering, integration, training, and site services

The Invensys automation systems at the new Laffan Refinery will be interfaced to existing Invensys systems at both the RasGas and QatarGas sites to help maximize the synergies between these plants.

About Invensys
Invensys is the world leader in industrial asset performance management. In addition to its rapidly expanding Global Solutions and Performance Management services groups, Invensys’ automation businesses includes industry-leading brands such as Foxboro, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware, and Avantis, whose products are installed in more than 100,000 plants across the world. These range from small hybrid and batch plants to the world’s largest upstream projects, refineries, gas plants, petrochemicals plants, power plants, and pulp and paper mills.

The Invensys Group (www.invensys.com) is headquartered in London and is listed on the London Stock Exchange, with approximately 30,000 employees working in 60 countries.

Foxboro, Invensys, I/A Series, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware, and Avantis are trademarks of Invensys plc, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. All other brands and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:52 AM | Comments (0)

American Clay Creates Surface Competitive with Gypsum; Passes "Penny Test"

Earlier this year, American Clay Earth Plaster created the Dos Manos application system, delivering a milestone in earth plaster application by eliminating the Primer step. Now, the newest formulation from American Clay, the natural finish for interior walls and ceilings, has become the basis for their hardest finish yet. The recently launched Marittimo, which uses reclaimed shells as its base, combines with the company’s Add Mix to produce a surface that can compete with the hardness of gypsum. The company that has taken “green” to a finer level without sacrificing its eco-goals continues to evolve their products and processes to exceed builder and consumer market demands.

Albuquerque, NM (PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -- Earlier this year, American Clay Earth Plaster created the Dos Manos application system to augment the Traditional System, delivering a milestone in earth plaster application by eliminating the Primer step, thereby greatly cutting labor costs.

Now, the newest formulation from American Clay, the natural finish for interior walls and ceilings, has become the basis for their hardest finish yet. The recently launched Marittimo, which uses reclaimed shells as its base, combines with the company’s Add Mix to produce a surface that can compete with the hardness of gypsum. The company that has taken “green” to a finer level without sacrificing its eco-goals continues to evolve their products and processes to exceed builder and consumer market demands.

In June, just prior to debuting Marittimo at the PCBC trade show in San Francisco, AC Founder & CEO Croft Elsaesser and VP of Quality Control and co-Founder Shaylor Alley were experimenting more with the Marittimo, which had been two years in the making. They decided to mix in the company’s Add Mix, which they then applied and hand-troweled Out of curiosity and discussing the durability of different products, Croft took a penny and scraped it, and discovered that it was the PENNY that got damaged! There was a mark on the test panel of Marittimo, but more like a scrape that was easily rubbed out with his fingertips. This became the primary repeated American Clay demo at PCBC this year, with consistent results.

“The primary historic concern about clay plaster is its lack of durability, especially for commercial or major-builder use,” says Elsaesser. “We’ve continued to counter that complaint through regular R&D which has led to the introduction of the Dos Manos method and now this new mixture. We’ve also found that adding the Add Mix to our original Loma and to Porcelina creates formulas just as durable…thereby meeting the needs and requirements of production builders.”

“The confidence I have in the folks at American Clay is very important as an applicator. I have found that they constantly improve their products and process, looking for superior suppliers for starting materials and adding new products that make projects easier, and make my work more effective.” says Colorado Springs installer Deb Hall.

About American Clay
American Clay products are applied much like a conventional plaster finish, but with none of the intrinsic problems of gypsum or cementitious plasters. There is no off-gassing or inherent waste on-site. Moreover, the plaster is non-flammable, gives additional masonry mass in rooms, resists mold growth, absorbs sound, provides humidity buffering, and is easily repairable. It is a unique combination of clays, aggregates and natural pigments that offers builders and consumers a natural and elegant option.

American Clay Enterprises, Inc., is based in Albuquerque, NM, and its product is patent pending. The product and various workshops are available through their New Mexico office or through one of the growing number of retailers and distributors across the U.S. The website, www.americanclay.com, offers information on additional products, ordering, technical specifications, product application and additional resources and links.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:51 AM | Comments (0)

CA Teams with Acrelic Interactive for Inside Sales Productivity Tool

Acrelic Interactive, the developer of WarpSales, a leading sales and marketing effectiveness solution for B2B inside sales, today announced that CA, one of the world's largest information technology (IT) management software companies, is expanding its use of WarpSales within its inside sales organizations to increase productivity.

Warren, NJ (PRWEB) August 18, 2006 -- Acrelic Interactive, the developer of WarpSales, a leading sales and marketing effectiveness solution for B2B inside sales, today announced that CA, one of the world's largest information technology (IT) management software companies, is expanding its use of WarpSales within its inside sales organizations to increase productivity.

CA successfully piloted WarpSales with its customer-facing sales representatives for more than six months at its Customer Interaction Center (CIC) in Tampa, Florida, the company’s main center for lead generation in North America that serves as a hub for telephone-based sales professionals. CA is now rolling out WarpSales to the majority of its inside sales teams for lead generation and new customer accounts.

“By having better insight and knowledge as to how to service our customers, WarpSales has increased our overall performance,” said Matt Kalmenson, Vice President of Sales, Emerging Accounts at CA. “The results have been significant. We have been able to increase email open rates by more than 50 percent, increase phone call connects by nearly 300 percent, find additional qualified sales opportunities, and close business quicker."

CA unifies and simplifies the management of enterprise-wide IT in a secure way for greater business results. The company’s tools and expertise help customers manage risk, improve service, manage costs and align their IT investments with their business needs. CA serves more than 98 percent of the Global 1000® companies, as well as government organizations, educational institutions and thousands of other companies in diverse industries worldwide.

"CA is one of the first technology companies to successfully sell enterprise level software over the phone, and we’re pleased that Acrelic and our on demand solution, WarpSales, is helping them improve performance for their inside sales force,” said Acrelic’s CEO, David A. Rosen. "This confirmation of our solution by one of the industry’s leaders is an exciting step forward in the evolution of WarpSales.”

"Our WarpSales campaigns have outperformed many of our traditional lead generation programs,” said Robert Hewardt, Vice President of CRM at CA. “We’re seeing good results -- in defined opportunities, pipeline growth and actual projects.”

About Acrelic Interactive
Acrelic is the creator of WarpSales™ -- the first lead qualification system that connects professional B2B sales people to their prospects in real time. With WarpSales, marketing organizations can accelerate delivery of both quantity and quality of leads to inside sales organizations who in turn can increase their productivity by at least doubling their live connect and lead conversion rates.

Acrelic is helping companies across industry segments create new revenue opportunities and achieve greater profitability through a unique combination of technology and technique. By focusing on open source solutions for scalability and economic flexibility, Acrelic is able to provide a straightforward and affordable solution to companies of all sizes. A customer sampling includes: IBM, Citicorp, Computer Associates, and Tempur-Pedic, among others.

Acrelic Interactive, a privately held company located in Warren, NJ, was founded in 2002. For more information, please visit www.acrelic.com or call 908-222-2900.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:50 AM | Comments (0)

BESTProto Inc. – New Company Announcement August 15, 2006

BESTProto Inc. http://www.bestproto.net, a printed circuit board prototype and specialty small volume PCB assembly operation, announces that it has opened its doors for business. Our experienced staff welcome your PCB Prototype Assembly challenges.

Rolling Meadows, IL (PRWEB) August 19, 2006 -- BESTProto provides PCB prototype assembly services for two types of customers. For the hardware development community BESTProto will provide fast, low quantity prototype build services for Printed Circuit Board Assemblies. BGA assembly and troubleshooting as well an ability to provide circuit board modifications without a circuit board “respin” quickly is the BESTProto differentiator. For the specialty hand assembly or Micro business BESTProto will provides; specialty hand soldering capabilities, box and cable set builds, specialized box build and numerous testing capabilities.

BESTProto has access to a variety of both tin-lead and lead free assembly, test and diagnostic tools. For assembly, BESTProto has print, automated SMT placement and reflow capabilities. X-RAY, endoscopic inspection equipment complement the company’s IPC A610 inspection capabilities. In addition, BGA rework stations complement BESTProtos’ assembly capabilities.

“BESTProto is servicing the hardware development community with PCB assembly expertise and fast turnaround capability. In addition there are numerous companies requiring small volume and specialty hand builds requiring a high level of soldering and assembly expertise where outsourcing to either an overseas supplier or a highly automated EMS provider is not a good fit. BESTProto is designed to meet these specific industry needs and is not in business to be another volume assembly operation” said Bob Wettermann, president of BEST Inc., one of the partners in the new venture.

The management of the company will be led by Gary Lynch formerly of Advantest and AG Communications, both EMS providers, where he was responsible for operational management. Garth Cates, formerly of Lucent Technologies, has been active in the PCB and wire and cable harness assembly industry and has been an SMTA member, will lead the sales effort.

About BEST Inc. specializes in rework and repair of Printed Circuit Boards. It also offers products that streamline hand soldering, rework and repair, which also includes lead-free soldering products. BEST is an IPC Certified Center offering Instructor and Operator Solder Training Courses & Certifications for IPC-A-610, JSTD-001, IPC 7711/7721 as well as customized classes to meet specific standards or criteria. For more information, visit http://www.solder.net

Contact Information:
Garth Cates (847) 797-9250 BESTProto Inc

Contact Information:
Bob Wettermann (847) 797-9250 BEST Inc

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:49 AM | Comments (0)

E-Trade2China Inc. Relaunched as ET2C International Inc.

New branding reflects rapid expansion of the ET2C international business into new markets and territories.

Shanghai, China (PRWEB) August 21, 2006 -- In order to reflect a major new Business Development initiative, E-Trade2China Inc. announces that the company will be known as ET2C International Inc. with immediate effect.

Since its inception in 2001 as a way to make purchasing products from China simpler, cheaper, and easier, the company has gradually opened several regional offices in other countries and territories, and is soon going to announce plans for a major move into several new markets.

These new offices will be in addition to the company’s current presence in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Denmark, and the US.

ET2C International Inc. is also relaunching the company’s website, at www.et2cinternational.com.

Product focus is being enhanced, too, with ET2C International Inc. developing a number of industrial and consumer brands in seven major product categories, which are revealed on the new website.

“Our business is not restricted to simply sourcing and exporting products from China any more, and this is a great opportunity for us to serve even more companies”, according to Jonathan Fayers, ET2C International’s Marketing Director.

“We will of course also continue to offer our Buying Office Services to companies”, he added, “as this has proven itself to be the undisputed lowest-cost way for companies to have their own full-time Buying Operations in China – regardless of whether they are a small-to-medium supplier, or if they are a large retailer or a major industrial company.

“Since our acquisition of Silver Moon Creations Inc. in the US last year, as our retail brand Urban Shock takes off in China, and as we create brand value in our seven key product areas, we wanted the name of the company to more accurately reflect the activities of the company as a whole, whilst still containing a nod to our origins. The name ET2C International fits that objective very well”.

To find out what ET2C International Inc. can do for your business, please contact Jonathan Fayers, E-Trade2China’s Marketing Director.

ET2C International Inc. is one of the fastest-growing sourcing companies in Shanghai. It specializes in a focused range of seven industrial and consumer product areas, and it also sets up Buying Offices for European and North American companies which are then able to save money by buying products directly in local currency.

Contact Information:

Jonathan Fayers
Marketing Director

ET2C International Inc.
13F, East Tower
King World Hi-Tech Building
668 Beijing East Road
Shanghai 200001
People's Republic of China

Tel: +8621 6120 6061 ext 815
Fax: +8621 5308 0636

www.et2cinternational.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:48 AM | Comments (0)

Civilian Jobs Highlight Bradley-Morris’ September/October Hiring Conferences for Ex-Military Talent

Chicago, San Diego, Norfolk, Atlanta, Seattle and Dallas will host events for ex-military seeking civilian jobs.

Atlanta, Georgia (PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -– Bradley-Morris, Inc. (BMI), the largest military placement firm in the U.S., announced their September and October 2006 Hiring Conference schedule. Events will take place on the following dates:

September 18th in Chicago
· September 18th and October 30th in San Diego
· September 25th and October 30th in Norfolk, VA
· October 9th in Atlanta
· October 9th in Seattle
· October 16th in Dallas

Fortune 500 and emerging sector companies who are seeking high caliber candidates currently experiencing military career transition will take advantage of valuable interview opportunities, especially if these employers are seeking leadership and management positions; project engineers; production engineers/supervisors; manufacturing engineers/supervisors; operations and logistics engineers/supervisors; electrical, mechanical and maintenance technicians; and field service technicians.

"BMI Hiring Conferences provide an incredible return on investment for employers, both in terms of time and money," said Shaun Bradley, CEO at Bradley-Morris, Inc. "Because attendance is free for clients and candidates alike, it puts a premium on our ability to successfully match valuable military skill sets with specific civilian position profiles."

Companies who need assistance solving diversity challenges will also find Bradley-Morris, Inc. to be a valuable partner for programmatically addressing this area. Over the company’s 15 year history in a field some refer to as military headhunters, nearly a third of all placements have been diversity candidates.

"Whether assisting clients with hiring needs such as addressing diversity, building bench leadership, or improving technical talent levels, BMI has an unmatched track record of success," said Sandy Morris, COO. "Our customer service satisfaction is 96%, and begins with our first interaction with an employer: Scheduling them for interviews with candidates at a Bradley-Morris Hiring Conference."

Employers and job seekers can review BMI’s full 2006 / 2007 Hiring Conference schedule as well as register for an event at hc.Bradley-Morris.com.

About Bradley-Morris, Military Placement Firm
Bradley-Morris, Inc., the largest military placement firm in the U.S., expertly matches the top leadership, technical, operations and diversity candidates who are experiencing a military career transition with the leading civilian jobs in the Fortune 1000 and emerging company sectors. Our client-focused approach yields superior return-on-investment and results in a 96% customer service satisfaction rating from the valued companies that partner with us. In addition, 90% of our military job seekers receive interest from these companies by taking advantage of our free Hiring Conference process. Serving the U.S., Europe and Asia, Bradley-Morris is headquartered in metro-Atlanta, GA, and can be found on the web at Bradley-Morris.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:47 AM | Comments (0)

Newbridge Nanotechnology Index (NNIX) Announces Quarterly Rebalance and Constituent Changes

Newbridge Securities Corporation today announced the quarterly rebalancing and reconstitution of its Newbridge Nanotechnology Index (NNIX). Among the index constituents, Newbridge has made two additions and one removal, raising the total number of companies included to 25. The NNIX ended the quarter at 819.80, down 15.1% from the last rebalance on May 18, 2006.

(PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -- Newbridge Securities Corporation today announced the quarterly rebalancing and reconstitution of its Newbridge Nanotechnology Index (NYSEArca: NNIX). This quarter saw one replacement and one addition among the constituents, raising the total number of companies included to 25. Constituents subject to the 10% index weight cap were Headwaters (NYSE: HW), Symyx (NasdaqGS: SMMX) and Veeco (NasdaqGS: VECO). The NNIX ended the quarterly period at 819.80, down 15.1% from the last rebalance on May 18, 2006.

Newbridge has replaced Westaim Corp. (NasdaqGM: WEDX) with majority-owned subsidiary Nucryst Pharmaceuticals (NasdaqGM: NCST), which was spun off from the parent company in an IPO in December 2005. Nucryst is a nanobiotech company that manufactures nanocrystalline silver as a coating for wound dressings and an active ingredient for pharmaceutical products, the first of which is currently in clinical trials. Westaim’s other operating subsidiary is developing a non-nano display technology. Though Westaim maintains a controlling stake in Nucryst, we have decided to make the switch at this time due to the increasing influence of the other subsidiary on the parent company’s stock.

Newbridge has added Luna Innovations (NasdaqGM: LUNA), which came public in a June 2006 IPO. The company engages in applied research and commercialization efforts in two fields, sensing and molecular technology, the latter of which includes nanomaterials. Its Luna nanoWorks division specializes in carbon nanostructures including fullerenes, nanotubes and a proprietary structure it calls the Trimetasphere™. Licensed from Virginia Tech, a Trimetasphere is a fullerene containing three metal atoms in its core, with potential applications such as MRI contrast agents.

The Newbridge Nanotechnology Index (NNIX) has been constructed to track the stock market performance of companies that are currently active in nanotechnology. The Index is comprised of companies whose operations, based on our assessment of products, intellectual property, research initiatives and partnerships, include a significant focus on nanotechnology. Only companies with common stock or ADRs listed on a national market or exchange in the U.S. are eligible. The base date for the Index is June 30, 2004, at which time the base value for the Index was set at 1000. The NNIX is market cap weighted, rebalanced quarterly, and now includes 25 companies.

About Newbridge Securities Corporation
Newbridge is a full-service securities brokerage firm (Member: NASD & SIPC) and a subsidiary of Newbridge Financial, Inc., an integrated financial services company. The Newbridge Institutional Research department specializes in the analysis and coverage of companies that have a strategic focus on nanotechnology. More information is available at our websites www.newbridgereports.com and www.newbridgesecurities.com.

Safe Harbor Statement
This news announcement may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance and achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied, such as a difference including, but not limited to, those discussed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the Financial Condition and Results of Operation in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For important disclosures please visit: http://www.newbridgesecurities.com/index_disclosure.htm. Additional information is available upon request. Contact: David M. Keiter, Director of Research, 954-334-3450 x115.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:46 AM | Comments (0)

L-com Connectivity Products Now Provides Free 3D Images of Electrical Components Including Cables, Connectors and Adapters

L-com's web site now contains free 3D images of most of its cables, connectors, adapters, and other electrical components. Users can rotate, pan, and zoom images to see them from various angles.

North Andover, MA (PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -- L-com Connectivity Products, of North Andover, MA, has released another update to its industry-famous web site, www.L-com.com, to now include 3D images on product pages. Users can access these images by clicking the 3D radio button under the static product image on any L-com product page.

Visitors to L-com's web site can freely manipulate the 3D images: rotating, panning, and zooming in or out, to see the parts from various angles. Users can also download a .step file version of the 3D model for use in their own documents, with free registration.

"We really felt that it was time to give our customers the full power to examine our parts before they buy," said Jim Roberts, Director of Product Development at L-com. "We were already making our CAD models available on our site, but this makes viewing the part in 3D much easier."

The new 3D model features are free on L-com's web site by navigating to an individual item's page.

About L-com Connectivity Products

L-com designs and manufactures copper and fiber cable assemblies, interconnection adaptors, connectors and cable test equipment. In addition to a vast inventory of standard products, L-com has extensive custom product design and manufacturing capabilities that include:

· Assembled and Injection Molded Data Cables
· Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies and Adaptors
· Modular and Telco Assemblies
· Low Loss Video and Monitor Cables
· Unique Bulkhead Connectors
· Machined or Cast Coaxial Connectors and Adaptors
· Sheet Metal Fabrication of Rack Panels and Enclosures
· Special Bulk Cable Formulations (Low Smoke Zero Halogen, Ultra-Flexible, etc.)
· Military and Special Packaging, Kitting, Custom Labeling and Bar-coding

L-com also distributes selected products to complement its manufactured goods including: Ethernet hubs and switches, routers, media converters, protocol converters, KVM switches, video distribution amplifiers/switches and network test equipment. The company provides simple, one-stop shopping for its customers. For more information, please visit www.L-com.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:45 AM | Comments (0)

The Science of Friction: Narrow and Wide Web Converters are Impressed with New, Easy to Load Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft

Undoubtedly the most efficient and advanced converting solution available today, Convertech's Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft dramatically surpasses its predecessors with innovative and effective tension control and easy roll loading. By eliminating many common issues associated with differential winding, Convertech's shaft will reshape the way many converters do business in today's competitive marketplace.

Wharton, NJ (PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -- Undoubtedly the most efficient and advanced converting solution available today, Convertech's Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft dramatically surpasses its predecessors with innovative and effective tension control and easy roll loading. By eliminating many common issues associated with differential winding, Convertech's shaft will reshape the way many converters do business in today's competitive marketplace.

With a growing number of converters seeking to retrofit their machinery with newer, more efficient shafts, Convertech's Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft engenders a multitude of innovative solutions in one, advanced shaft. Designed to replace the need for multiple shafts, Convertech's shaft can effectively keep precise tension control on multiple width cores on the same shaft.

Because many materials require sensitive tension control to ensure even rolls, efficiency and precision in differential shaft design plays a significant role in its success as an effective retrofit choice. Using the patented GlideLock™ Clutched Rollers Convertech's Differential Shaft can efficiently control multiple tensions on multiple width cores without operator intervention. The winning combination of the GlideLock™ internally clutched rollers and a simple, effective design gives the Convertech Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft the ability to replace multiple shafts without the issues associated with traditional differential shafts.

GlideLock™ Clutched Rollers allow operators to easily load and unload the shaft with minimal effort. Unlike other differential shaft designs, which require substantial effort and time-consuming special procedures to load and unload, Convertech's Air Roll Lock Differential Shaft is exceptionally easy and safe to use. By simply sliding cores on to the shaft, connecting the material, and engaging the shaft the operator can step out of the way and let the shaft do the work. Unloading is just as easy; disengage the shaft, cut the material, and the rolls easily slide off the shaft. No hammers, no cones, no tools, no spacers, and no headaches.

For over a quarter century Convertech has been the leader in exceptionally fast lead 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, Inc.'s faster delivery time will always keep you up and running.

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 05:44 AM | Comments (0)

Canadian Candle Manufacturer Steps into International Trade

Although Stardust Candle Corporation (www.stardustcandle.ca )based in Cameron, Ontario has only been established for 1 year, Owner/Director Michele Dinga is no stranger to big business. With experience in the Giftware & Candle markets totalling over 25 years starting Stardust Candle Corporation was a good career move.

(PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -- Her resume boasts experience for many years as the National Giftware Buyer for a 300 store retail chain, where she was involved heavily in product development and purchasing from Asian sources. Her position enabled her to make several trips to a variety of countries in Asia, working with Artisans and manufacturers there to develop successful giftware items sold not only in Canada, but in the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Africa. In addition she was responsible for sourcing products throughout the U.S. and Europe.

After the re-structuring and downsizing of this retailer, and its subsequent move of it’s head office to the U.S. Michele was appointed as Vice President of a giftware wholesaler, and was instrumental in setting up their candle manufacturing division from scratch. A challenging venture, since the wholesaler had never manufactured before, Michele was responsible for the setup of all procedures and processes, all product research and development, customer service and international sales, as well as purchasing of finished goods Giftware and Home Décor from Asia, Europe, India, the U.S. and Canada. After successful introduction to Canadian and U.S. small independent retailers large scale private label programs were developed for some of the markets retail giants. After the sale of this company, and its subsequent move of manufacturing to the U.S. Michele set out on her own and registered her company Stardust Candle Corporation.

Stardust Candle Corporation manufactures premium highly fragranced and unscented candles, and specializes in hard to find pillar candles (Church Candles) up to 17” tall. Michele states “there has been a void in the marketplace for these oversized pillar candles, and in fact many manufacturers have dropped pillar candles from their lines because they’re expensive to automate production of and many manufacturers want to completely automate their production. Our candles are more like works of art. The candles are textured making each one a one of a kind creation.” (See examples of the texture at http://www.stardustcandle.ca/view.php?pid=61357 )

Another best seller is the Large Star Centerpiece/Pool candle, which when floating in a pool with some smaller Star floaters creates a really dramatic effect for a back yard party. The centerpiece can also be used on a candle platter, with decorations around the bottom for a really beautiful table setting. (View products at http://www.stardustcandle.ca/view.php?UID=20060818131522&pid=61044 )

Michele states that the most important aspect of product development where candles are concerned is quality.
“There are many chandlers (candle makers) in the world, and there are many who do not understand that the most important aspect about making candles is in the testing and development. We conducted testing for 6 months before we even shipped one candle. Each combination of wax, additives, colour and fragrance creates it’s own scientific formula, and requires a specific wick in order to burn properly. In a line like ours, with 14 fragrances and 14 unscented colours there can be several different wicks required for the same product, for example 3” diameter pillars. Most people have experience candles that burn poorly, and either tunnel burn, or overflow, and extensive testing can prevent that. In addition, we feel it’s important to educate the consumer as to how to burn candles safely and properly. A candle should never be burned for LESS than one hour per inch of diameter, or in the case of a round pillar candle, until the wax pool completely reaches the edge of the candle. Otherwise, you will “train” your candle to tunnel burn, which is a waste of money. Our pillar candles when burned properly will completely consume on their own, without having to press the sides in, and you should be left with a small pancake of wax when the pillar is gone. Chandlers of candles like ours walk a fine line between science and art.” For more tips and handy tricks see http://www.stardustcandle.ca/view.php?pid=61355

Sales reps have been hired to handle domestic sales, and in a natural step Michele spends a great deal of time marketing to International importers in various markets recently appointing an exclusive distributor to an importer who has agreed to represent the entire line for their market. "We are agressively seeking International distributors to market our products in their regions, and also are happy to deal directly with retailers & consumers based in the U.S."

Contact Stardust Candle Corporation for more information at www.stardustcandle.ca

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:43 AM | Comments (0)

Manchester Based Entrepreneurs Celebrate Reaching Sales Landmark

Restore Foam, the makers of memory foam mattresses and pillows, has hit the 10,000 sales mark this month. The company, based in Manchester, produces its non-organic hand made lines for the health and consumer markets. Restore Foam currently employs 10 members of staff and aims to hit the £1 million turnover mark by the end of the year.

(PRWEB) August 20, 2006 -- Two Manchester based entrepreneurs are celebrating this week after seeing their specialist manufacturing company hit the 10,000 sales mark.

Peter Robinson and David French are co-founders of Restore Foam, the makers of memory foam pillows and memory foam mattresses.

Memory Foam is becoming an increasingly popular way to enjoy and benefit from sleep and rest.
The properties of visco-elastic memory Foam foam allow it to react to both pressure and temperature. This double sensitivity ensures memory foam moulds to an individual’s unique shape resulting in the characteristic "body imprint".

Originally the NASA designed foam was developed for space flight to ease the tensions on the astronauts’ bodies. Its specialist properties are now being used for the health market, where it can help ease a range of medical conditions although many buyers simply use it for comfort.

This makes it useful in a range of medical conditions particularly pressure sores, which cost the NHS £2 million daily. As memory foam moulds to an individual’s body it helps reduce pressure and so increases capillary blood flow that helps minimise the development of low-grade pressure sores.

Many purchasers use memory foam mattresses for back problems and other stress complaints, which can benefit from its unique properties. The reduction in nighttime movement, up to 85%, can aid insomnia complaints. Memory foam’s heat retention properties can also help relieve pain.

Memory foam is a man made non-organic substance that does not support any organic or bacterial growth. This eliminates its use by dust mites and other organisms that are allergy inducing.

The recognised benefits of sleeping, resting or sitting on memory foam has helped increase the popularity of the product. The high development cost and initial manufacturing difficulties have now been eliminated. Consequently the price has now stabilised at a realistic and affordable level.

Restore Foam originally began its life in the front room of business partner David French’s Hale home.

The business concentrated on textiles at first and later progressed to its memory foam lines. After slowly building the business they moved their operation from Hale to a mill dating from the Industrial Revolution in Ardwick. They now employ 10 staff from their manufacturing base.

Peter comments, "Restore Foam is a very satisfying business to be in. We make a hand made quality product, we are continuing the British tradition of manufacturing, we are growing and we also help a lot of people gain relief from medical complaints."

Peter continues: "Restore Foam is pushing towards the one million pound a year turnover mark. It shows that high quality manufacturing can succeed in the home of the Industrial Revolution."

About Restore Foam:
Peter Robinson is a director of Restore Foam, a market leading producer of innovative Memory Foam Mattresses. Peter, a Canadian by birth, now resident in Manchester UK has many years experience in product development and now focuses on addressing orthopaedic issues through development of the Restore Memory Foam range. Check out the Restore Foam Website for more information: www.restorefoam.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:42 AM | Comments (0)

August 18, 2006

Slide-Lok Announces New 'Red Alder' Finish for its Garage Storage Cabinets

Slide-Lok has just introduced a new cabinet finish choice to the garage cabinets and garage storage markets. This latest addition is expected to significantly enhance Slide-Lok’s existing market leadership.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) August 18, 2006 -- Garage Storage market leader Slide-Lok, headquartered in Tempe, AZ, has just announced the latest addition to the company’s line of available finishes for its garage cabinets. With the addition of the new "Red Alder" finish, Slide-Lok expects to extend its leadership in the garage cabinets market.

"The garage storage market has become increasingly dynamic over the past few years, and Slide-Lok is leading the way by providing its customers with more choice than ever before," says Brian Strayer, Slide-Lok's President.

In addition to Slide-Lok’s existing line of finishes for its garage cabinets (natural maple, white maple, oak frost, and white), Slide-Lok is now introducing Red Alder. The new finish can now be ordered directly from Slide-Lok or through dealers of Slide-Lok garage cabinets.

The company’s market research has shown it that customers are not only demanding more choices when it comes to garage cabinets, but that many customers desire a rich garage storage cabinet finish. To accommodate this desire, Slide-Lok has introduced its Red Alder finish, rounding out its line, and giving customers an exciting new choice.

Now, Slide-Lok, and dealers of Slide-Lok garage cabinets, can offer more to their customers than ever before.

Strayer states, "More than ever, Slide-Lok dealers have the tools they need to be competitive and to win business. Five cabinet finishes, two cabinet depths, three countertop finishes, and an industry leading modular storage system are increasingly making Slide-Lok the preferred choice in garage storage systems."

For more information on Slide-Lok garage storage products, contact Slide-Lok at 1-800-235-1759 or slide-lok.com.

Consumers interested in locating a Slide-Lok dealer or in purchasing online can visit slide-lok.com.

About Slide-Lok:
Since 1977 Slide-Lok and its parent company Bass Cabinets have been producing high quality, durable cabinetry. Slide-Lok’s cabinets utilize a patented dovetail design, plywood construction, adjustable 6-way hinges, and Thermofuse doors—making Slide-Lok the quality leader. Slide-Lok’s dealer network includes more than 100 dealers across the United States and Canada.

Contact:
Slide-Lok
1-800-235-1759
www.slide-lok.com

Media Contact:
John Rogers
Zion and Zion Consulting Group
www.zionandzion.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:24 AM | Comments (0)

JWC Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Franklin Miller

JWC Environmental, a leading manufacturer of wastewater treatment equipment, filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Franklin Miller, Inc. of Livingston, NJ and JBI Water and Wastewater, Inc. of El Dorado Hills, CA.

Costa Mesa, CA (PRWEB) August 18, 2006 -- JWC Environmental, a leading manufacturer of wastewater treatment equipment, filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Franklin Miller, Inc. of Livingston, NJ and JBI Water and Wastewater, Inc. of El Dorado Hills, CA in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California on August 11, 2006. Case number C06-04864 MMC-U.S. District Court, No. District of California, San Jose Division.

The lawsuit, which identifies Franklin Miller's Spiralift SC® screenings washer products, charges Franklin Miller with willful infringement of JWCE's United States Patent No. 7,080,650. JWCE is asking the court to enjoin Franklin Miller and JBI from infringing the company's patent and for unspecified compensation for damages.

JWCE's patented technology is incorporated in its award winning Screenings Washer Monster® (SWM), which grinds, washes and compacts solids removed from wastewater, producing a cleaner, drier and virtually odor free discharged material.

The SWM includes a dual-shafted Muffin Monster® grinder that preconditions captured solids by reducing their size to allow the washing system to remove soft organics entrained in trash and rags. Soft organics are washed back into the plant flow where they belong while unwanted debris is compacted and dewatered, then discharged into a dumpster, ready for landfill disposal or incineration.

JWCE's product innovation has been recognized several times by the Water Environment Federation (WEF) with four Innovative Technology Awards - the wastewater industry's most prestigious honor. The SWM won the award for 2001 and was recognized again this year when WEF gave the award to the Monster Separation System™, which incorporates the SWM, pairing it with a fine screen for a complete solids removal and processing system.

There are nearly 150 SWMs installed at wastewater treatment plants around the world.

Corporate
JWC Environmental, a privately owned corporation headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA, manufacturers and services a complete line of sewage grinders, high flow fine screens and removal equipment for wastewater treatment. Providing extensive sales, marketing and service support enhances their ability to design custom applications. JWC products include the world renowned Muffin Monster®, Channel Monster® and Auger Monster®, and we have recently added such revolutionary products as the Honey Monster™ Septage Receiving Station, Screenings Washer Monster and Monster Separation System, which are all used in a wide variety of municipal and industrial applications worldwide.

Distribution
JWC distributes its products through a global network of independent representatives and distributors. In addition, JWC provides extensive sales and service support through regional and international sales offices and service centers. For more information contact Alec Mackie at JWC Environmental, 290 Paularino Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, voice 800/331-2277, 949/833-3888, fax 949/833-8858, or visit them online at www.jwce.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:20 AM | Comments (0)

Flexsteel Selects NESTERwood to Optimize Upholstery Frame Production

Furniture manufacturer Flexsteel Industries has selected the NESTERwood Optimizer software to optimize upholstery frame production. Based on extensive evaluation and testing conducted by Flexsteel in its production environment, material yield improvements of 8-12 percent are expected once the NESTERwood solution is fully implemented.

Ball Ground, GA (PRWEB) August 18, 2006 -- Nester Software, a leading provider of production optimization solutions for the upholstery furniture industry, announced that Flexsteel Industries has selected the NESTERwood Optimizer software to optimize upholstery frame production, starting in Flexsteel’s Dublin, GA, facility.

As the furniture industry continues to be impacted by increases in raw material and energy costs, manufacturers are looking to increase material utilization and reduce production cycle times.

NESTERwood Rolling Nest automatically optimizes the placement of pieces from one or more orders on multiple sheets of plywood, resulting in material yields that are consistently higher than any other solution.

Based on extensive evaluation and testing conducted by Flexsteel in its production environment, material yield improvements of 8-12 percent are expected once the NESTERwood solution is fully implemented.

“Creating a tight nest that results in an impractical cutting path that causes pieces to be damaged defeats the whole purpose of optimization,” says Dan Lamm, Corporate Industrial Engineer for Flexsteel. “NESTERwood was the only software we found to not only deliver a solution that is efficient, but also produce nests that can actually be cut without damaging any pieces.”

In addition to the improvement in material utilization, NESTERwood will help Flexsteel get closer to its goal of Just-In-Time (JIT) manufacturing. By cutting to exact order demand, NESTERwood Optimizer eliminates the need to cut excess parts and reduces the inventory and operational costs associated with the practice.

Test runs with NESTERwood Optimizer have also shown to reduce cycle time per sheet (the time it takes to process one plywood sheet), improving the efficiency of CNC routers used to cut the plywood and overall productivity. Flexsteel currently uses 13 CNC routers across three of its seven production plants.

“We are excited for the opportunity to work with an industry leader such as Flexsteel,” says Elery Pfeffer, President of Nester Software. “The thorough evaluation conducted by Flexsteel is a testament to the rigorous approach the company is taking towards production optimization, and we are thrilled to be chosen as partners in this quest.”

About Flexsteel
Flexsteel Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:FLXS) is headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa, and was incorporated in 1929. Flexsteel is a designer, manufacturer, importer and marketer of quality upholstered and wood furniture for residential, recreational vehicle, office, hospitality and healthcare markets. All products are distributed nationally. For more information, visit www.flexsteel.com.

About Nester Software
Nester Software is the leading provider of production optimization solutions for manufacturers of engineered wood, foam, textile, and metal products in the apparel, furniture, transportation, and other industries. The NESTERwood Production Optimization Suite enables upholstery manufacturers to be more competitive by increasing material utilization, improving machine productivity, and shortening manufacturing cycle times. NESTERwood is used by leading upholstery manufacturers worldwide, including Airline Manufacturing, Bassett Furniture, Century Furniture, Drexel Heritage, Ethan Allen, and Southern Furniture. For more information, visit www.NesterSoftware.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:19 AM | Comments (0)

Sapphire Pad Printing and Screen Printing Inks from Inkcups Now

Inkcups Now, a leading manufacturer of pad printing and screen printing supplies and equipment, introduces one of the premiere pad and screen printing inks in the world today.

Danvers, MA (PRWEB) August 18, 2006 -- Inkcups Now introduces one of the premiere pad and screen printing inks in the world today – the SAPPHIRE series. SAPPHIRE is a full line of pad printing and screen printing ink with excellent opacity, gloss and usability and will adhesion to nearly all substrates. The ink is made in Italy under the finest production and quality standards and is triple milled to micron level pigment sizes, yielding one of the most opaque and brilliant color palettes in the industry.

There are ink series for any purpose, including all plastics, metals, glass, soft touch surfaces and in addition the Sapphire series is Class 6 certified and approved for use in the medical device industry. For printing onto dark and translucent substrates the series features a High Density ink product line – not only in white and black, but is offered in a complete line of colors. In addition, we provide our customers with twelve color mixing system and free formulation guide for the generation of Pantone colors.

SB Series Ink – Flexible Product Ink

Inkcups Now has introduced the SB series ink product line perfectly suited for two major applications. Firstly, SB series superbly works for the decoration of stress balls and other items that demand ink elasticity. Secondly, SB is ideal for the decoration of soft touch or lightly rubberized coatings used on pens, travel mugs, knives and similar products. SB series’ unique formula meets the challenge of preserving the coatings from delamination, assures superior flexibility, opacity, and adhesion.
SB is exceptionally good for rubber-coated items, vinyl, synthetic rubbers, simulated leathers, high density foam products and more.

J3 Series Ink – Universal Plastic Ink

The J3 series is an ideal ink product line for decorators who print on a variety of plastics. The J3 series is formulated to accommodate to variations in plastic molding commonly seen in the promotional products and medical industries. The J3 is super opaque, fast drying and has an excellent gloss. It is commonly used on plastic pens, injection molded parts, vinyl, simulated leathers, hard plastics and coated surfaces.

CG Series Ink – Metal and Glass Ink

CG is exceptionally glossy, opaque ink series that handles nearly all metal and glass products. It accepts two different hardeners, which widens the range of application even more. CG series has been very successful on many markets, such as stainless steel travel mug, metal pen, glass tumbler, mint and candy tin market. This ink cures under a fairly low temperature (180 F), enabling the operator to print and pack immediately without having to let the product sit overnight. In addition, CG series is easy to process and has a long pot life.

SB, J3, and CG series may be used as two-component inks where increased adhesion or abrasion resistance is required. SAPPHIRE ink is packaged in 1 kilogram containers and is available in 21 standard color shades.

For more information on pad printing ink, please visit http://www.inkcups.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

FINIS Appoints Mark Stephens to Spearhead Swim Equipment Product Development

FINIS announces the appointment of Mark Stephens, Product Development Specialist, to spearhead new product development with John Mix, President of Finis, Inc., a Livermore-based swim equipment company. Finis works closely with athletes and coaches to develop innovative aquatics training equipment that is tailored to the needs of swimmers at the highest levels of competitive swimming as well as for the pure pleasure of the sport.

LIVERMORE, Calif. (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- FINIS Inc. (www.FinisInc.com) announces the appointment of Mark Stephens as the new Product Development Specialist. He will oversee product development for Finis, Inc., a Livermore-based swim equipment company http://www.finisinc.com/company-catalogrequest.shtml. Stephens, former Stanford Swimming Captain and Design Engineering Graduate, specialized in Product Design Engineering during his four years at Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA. Stephens swam for the Stanford Men’s Swim and Dive Team and served as team captain for the nationally recognized swim program during his final year.

"We are very excited to have Mark join our team because he brings a high level of knowledge and experience in both swimming and product development. FINIS has always been devoted to listening to the athletes and coaches during our product design process. With that in mind, we sought a developer with a strong aquatic background as well as a fresh, innovative approach to new product design. I am confident in Mark’s skills and eagerly anticipate working with him to develop the future of swimming." said John Mix, President of FINIS.

Stephens has been affiliated with competitive swimming since the age of six. Career highlights include winning a Senior National Championship in the 200 Individual Medley in the summer of 2004, qualifying for both the 2004 Athens, Greece and 2008 Beijing, China Olympic Team Trials, and being a four-time National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) All-American during his final two years at Stanford. Stephens swam under legendary coaches Skip Kenney (Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA) and Ed Spencer (Dynamo Swim Club, Atlanta, GA). With an extensive background in product design, Stephens looks to add more than his expertise in swimming to the FINIS team. His mentors at Stanford University include the very well known product design engineering professors David Kelly and Dave Beach.

"I am very excited for the opportunity to combine my passions for swimming and design. John and the people at FINIS are very welcoming and excited about their work. We have already begun discussions on new products which I will help develop in the future which I believe will impact our great sport of swimming." said Stephens.

About FINIS, Inc:
Founded in 1993 by John Mix and Olympic Gold Medalist, Pablo Morales, FINIS, Inc. www.FinisInc.com develops the most technological and advanced training equipment for the swimming industry. From competitive swimwear and technical training equipment to high-end competitive swim goggles and children’s water confidence products including Waterproof Kids and Baby Steps, FINIS offers something for swimmers of all abilities to improve their technique and add to their enjoyment of being in the water http://store.finisinc.com. Brands owned and operated by Finis include: FINIS, SwiMP3, Zoomers, Lane 4, and Water Pals.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:15 AM | Comments (0)

Patriot Homes Rolls into the Gulf Coast Region with Solutions for the Rebuilding of the Gulf Coast

Factory Built Housing provides an efficient and economical way to rebuild neighborhoods ravaged by Hurricanes Katrina. This innovative approach to the rebuilding process overcomes the labor and housing shortages that we are seeing in the affected areas.

Biloxi, MS (PRWEB) August17, 2006 -- One of the best gifts you can give someone is hope, and that is what the team at Patriot Homes took to the Governors Expo in Biloxi, MS last weekend.

Architect John Carricarte, Lifestylist® Suzanne Felber and the Patriot Homes team worked on designing homes that would fit in perfectly with the architecture and styles of the homes that previously graced the Gulf Coast regions and were ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. The Initiative Home was toured by dignitaries, media, developers, and consumers. All were amazed at what factory built housing can offer and were excited about the opportunities.

The Initiative Home was built at the Patriot Homes of Alabama facility and was complete with a full front porch wide enough for rockers or a porch swing, 9 ft. ceilings, and details that graced the historical homes in this area. The sunny, inviting interior became a favorite place for all to meet and discuss the rebuilding opportunities. The home was also a favorite because of how the home was designed around the coastal lifestyle -- the master suite with separate shower was ideal for an active family, and the kitchen was designed around a family that loves to entertain -- complete with stainless steel GE appliances and a pot filler for cooking up some fo teh local crawfish and red beans and rice. Nothing was semi-homemade in this home -- it was all designed around homeowners who expect the best at an achievable cost.

Patriot Homes has a 34 year long reputation of being a family owned business that builds homes for other families. Sam Weidner Sr., President of Patriot Homes is proud of how his company has always been a leader in the housing industry, and is excited about the opportunities that are now in front of us.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:14 AM | Comments (0)

Humane Pigeon Control Honors History of Pigeons

Pigeons played an important role in two world wars and saved thousands of lives. Though pigeon control remains an important consideration for property owners, humane pigeon control is favored over the destruction of pigeons.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Pigeons can cause health risks, property damage and be an overall nuisance for property owners around the world. As property owners look to for ways to solve their pigeon problem, many are seeking humane pigeon control in recognition of the history of pigeons, as well as the desire to humanely treat other animals.

“People sometimes forget that carrier pigeons played an important role during war time and other stages of history,” David Jones, Deterapigeon.com, states. “Pigeons were directly responsible for saving thousands of lives and though many believe pigeons have outlived their usefulness, we should not forget their history,” Jones explains.

The destruction of pigeons through poison, slaughtering and other such means has become a serious problem in recent years as property owners hire pest control companies that violently or inhumanely destroy pigeons as a means of pigeon control.

“Too many companies are quick to destroy the lives of other animals through sometimes violent and horrific means,” Jones explains. “At Deter-a-Pigeon, we take great pride in offering human pigeon control through the use of pigeon spike,” Jones states.

Many property owners take their responsibility for protecting their property seriously. These same property owners, however, all take their responsibility towards other life seriously and that means using humane techniques to control pigeons.

In towns and cities around the globe property owners are turning towards pigeon spikes and other humane ways of controlling the pigeon population and protecting their property.

The history of pigeons and their relationship to man is one filled with great mutual benefit. Though modern technology has led some to believe pigeons have outlived their usefulness, they are far outnumbered by those who believe man should treat all animals humanely and that includes pigeon and in using humane pigeon control.

About Jones and Son:
As a company we know that not everybody likes pigeons namely building owners upon whose properties the pigeons choose to roost and local authorities who have to clean up after them. It is these people we are targeting, our pigeon spikes prevent pigeons from landing on property without hurting them.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:12 AM | Comments (0)

Upgrades to EDI X-12 Standards Pave the way for Retailer Efficiency

Upgrades to EDI X-12 standards are being used by major US retailers to increase their supply chain efficiency. The EDI standards upgrades enable retailers to more effectively exchange information with suppliers so that their back office operations are integrated with their supply chain and their EDI maintenance costs remain low.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Upgrades to EDI X-12 standards are being used by major US retailers to increase their supply chain efficiency. The EDI standards upgrades enable retailers to more effectively exchange information with suppliers so that their back office operations are integrated with their supply chain and their EDI maintenance costs remain low.

By upgrading their EDI standards, retailers capture and transmit the information they need to run an efficient supply chain in today’s cost competitive retailer environment. Accurate information is needed to move goods from the supplier to the retailer without costly interruptions or delays. Controlling shipping and inventory costs for all the parties involved in the supply chain is critical to offering lower prices to consumers.

Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club are implementing version 5010 of ANSI X-12 EDI standards. Department stores such as JC Penney have upgraded to version 4030. Kmart is moving all of its suppliers to version 4010 as part of their merger with Sears. Staples has recently upgraded their EDI Advance Ship Notice transaction requirements to improve their shipment receiving efficiency. Many retailers have added payment reporting EDI transactions to make it easier to pay suppliers with direct deposit.

CovalentWorks is a third party EDI provider and implements ANSI X-12 EDI standards upgrades for its clients at no extra charge. “We are committed to providing web-based EDI solutions to our clients that take care of all of the headaches associated with EDI, including EDI standards upgrades” said CovalentWorks president Steve Brewer. “We want to help our clients save time so that they can focus on growing their business.”

About CovlentWorks

CovalentWorks provides web-based EDI solutions for small and mid-sized businesses that require a headache-free EDI implementation. Now in its seventh year of operation, CovalentWorks has earned its position as an industry leader through a commitment to personalized service, easy- to-use EDI solutions, and affordable pricing. Clients only need internet access and email to be EDI compliant with hundreds of customers. No software, hardware or additional personnel are required.

Contact

Steve Brewer
CovalentWorks
800-496-3380
713-933-0594
EDI information

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:11 AM | Comments (0)

Isotech Moves to New Hatfield, Pennsylvania Facility to Expand Inventory of Linear Motion Products; Sales Up 25%

Increased sales, inventory and expanded customer service has forced Isotech Inc., a leading supplier of linear motion products, to relocate to a new facility in Hatfield, Pennsylvania.

Horsham, PA (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Isotech Inc., a supplier of precision linear motion products, today, announced that the company will be relocating to a new facility in Hatfield to accommodate an expanding inventory of linear motion products and improved customer service. The move is scheduled to be completed by August 20.

"The new facility will allow for the expansion of inventory and, hopefully, growth," said Joe Casillo, president of Isotech. "The current facility in Horsham, which we share with another company, has become too crowded to continue serving our clients the way we want to."

Over the past 12 month period Isotech has experienced a 25% increase in sales compared to the same time period a year ago. Casillo attributes much of that success to the company's thorough understanding of linear motion and motion control applications along with fabrication and marking processes.

"Currently, we have a technical sales staff of five," said Casillo. "Each has the ability to aid clients in product selection and has an understanding of our products and the applications that those products can be used in."

Isotech has become a one-stop-shop for many clients, with a line card that has expanded over the years to include products that compliment both standard and atypical linear motion, fabrication, marking, and motion control applications.

"After working with clients for nearly 25 years on all sorts of projects, you develop an understanding of not only what product will work best for the application," said Casillo, "but a firm understanding of all the components they will need to carry out that application to best suit their needs."

Isotech has been offering a diverse range of linear motion products, accessories, and advice to clients since 1982. The new facility is located at 777 Schwab Road , Suite T, Hatfield , Pa 19440 . For additional information, c all Isotech toll free at toll free: 800-314-3332 or visit www.isotechinc.com for more information or assistance.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:10 AM | Comments (0)

TDCI Expands BuyDesign® Sales and Configuration Software Solution

TDCI Inc today announced a significant expansion of the company’s popular BuyDesign® Internet-based sales and configuration software solution. BuyDesign now provides support for the full ‘interest-to-order’ cycle for highly configurable products sold through both indirect and direct sales channels.

Columbus, OH (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- TDCI Inc, a leading enterprise solution provider, today announced a significant expansion of the company’s popular BuyDesign® Internet-based sales and configuration software solution. With new applications for ‘interest capture’ and ‘requirements capture’ to complement existing applications for multi-level sales channel quote and order management and self-service end-customer sales, BuyDesign now provides support for the full ‘interest-to-order’ cycle for highly configurable products sold through both indirect and direct sales channels. New capabilities for dynamic generation of 2D CAD, 3D CAD, and rendered images further automate and streamline the sales process. In addition, a new distributed implementation capability allows companies to deploy BuyDesign with a combination of integrated online, workgroup, and desktop applications that support all channels with a centrally managed repository of product and pricing data. With these innovative new capabilities, BuyDesign has become the most comprehensive selling solution available today.

Initially introduced less than two years ago, BuyDesign is already being deployed by leading manufacturers of a wide range of products, including: windows, doors, heating systems, pumps, construction equipment, pleasure boats, audio visual components, consumer products, and more.

With the addition of new applications, BuyDesign now consists of the following components:
• Quote and Order Management: BuyDesign Channel Sales and BuyDesign Storefront
• Interest Capture: BuyDesign Build-Your-Own and BuyDesign Virtual Catalog
• Requirements Capture: BuyDesign Spec-In, AutoCAD edition
• Product Configuration: BuyDesign Configurator
• Product Visualization: BuyDesign Flex2D, BuyDesign Flex3D, and BuyDesign FlexRender
• Distributed System Management: BuyDesign InTouch
• Enterprise Integration: BuyDesign Integrator and BuyDesign Web Services

“Manufacturers of highly configurable products are looking for more ways to generate end-customer preference for their products, and for better ways to serve everyone in their demand chain,” states Mike Wilson, TDCI VP of Product Management and Marketing. “A lot of different people can be involved in the buying and selling process; from the end consumer, through the designers and architects that often specify products, to the company’s network of dealers, distributors, and direct sales people who quote and sell those products. We’re hearing more and more companies tell us they want to focus on simplifying each phase of the selling process to become ‘easy to do business with’ at all levels. And they’re starting to deploy multi-faceted solutions like BuyDesign to help do that.”

BuyDesign’s innovative Internet-centric design enables a manufacturer to offer any combination of 24x7 online access and distributed, synchronized applications to best support all levels of their demand chain, including dealers and distributors, direct sales people, ‘specifiers’ such as architects and designers, and end customers - B2C and B2B.

All of these capabilities are integrated with each other, and share common underlying tools for product configuration and visualization. And they all work with a single centrally managed product and pricing information repository. Distributed data and software are kept continually synchronized with automatic updates via the Internet.

One company already deploying the expanded solution is Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc. (Kolbe), a custom manufacturer of high quality windows and doors, located in Wausau, Wisconsin. Kolbe is using the distributed version of BuyDesign Channel Sales to provide dealers and distributors with a comprehensive desktop quoting capability (branded Kolbe ProQuote™), and will use BuyDesign Spec-In (branded Kolbe ProDesign™) to provide architects with the ability to select, specify, and insert AutoCAD design blocks for Kolbe products directly into their AutoCAD home designs. Product schedules from the architect system can be fed directly into the dealer system to speed quotation turn-around, and orders from the dealer system are sent directly to Kolbe to further speed the entire specification-to-delivery process.

“Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for everyone involved in the process to specify and buy Kolbe products,” stated Mike Salsieder, President. “We’re working to become as recognized for being ‘easy to do business with’ as we are for the quality of our windows and doors.”

“BuyDesign gives us the tools we need to simplify the buying process,” said Hank Hosler, Kolbe Director of IT. “It guides designers through product selection and specification, and guides our dealers and distributors through configuration, pricing, and ordering. And with BuyDesign’s distributed approach, we have the ability to centrally manage all of our product information while making it easy to keep dealers, distributors, and architects continually up to date. Our products are constantly evolving to meet market needs, so that’s very important.”

Kolbe plans to move the majority of their distributors to the new BuyDesign solution by the end of 2006. The BuyDesign solution will be used to replace over 1800 copies of their existing quoting system throughout 2007.

About TDCI
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 www.tdci.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:09 AM | Comments (0)

Iteration2 Awarded Highly Admired Best Practices Award from Microsoft Business Solutions

Iteration2 recognized for exceptional service and successful delivery methodology in Western Region for Microsoft Dynamics AX.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Iteration2 (www.iteration2.com), Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and 2006 U.S. MBS Partner of the Year, announced its recent selection as an award recipient at Microsoft Corporation’s United States Western Region quarterly partner award reception. Iteration2 received the prestigious Best Practices award for their Systems Clarity Framework delivery methodology and exceptional service record to customers.

“Iteration2 truly exemplifies a partner who has a deep understanding of their customer’s needs by developing and delivering unique solutions to enable their client’s success,” says Michael Clark, Desert Mountain Area General Manager of Microsoft’s Small and Midmarket Solutions and Partners Group. Michael adds “We are proud to honor Iteration2 with the Best Practices Award for their energy, commitment and integrity towards customer delivery.”

“The Iteration2 Systems Clarity Framework is a solid implementation methodology for project delivery that emphasizes a collaborative relationship between Iteration2’s team of professionals and our valued clients,” says Ron Schirm, Practice Director at Iteration2. Schirm adds “Iteration2 is composed of top industry professionals and we are very pleased that we continue to uphold our reputation for delivering clear business results and outstanding service to our valued clients.”

Recognized as the fastest growing Microsoft Dynamics AX partner in North America this is the second Best Practices Award for Iteration2 in the past year. Iteration2 continues to receive industry recognition attributing success to their knowledgeable team of professionals, enterprise software domain expertise, proven methodology, client satisfaction and focused vertical market strategy.

About Iteration2
Iteration2 provides its clients with a superior enterprise software implementation experience that is more attractive and affordable than solutions from SAP and Oracle. Combined with Microsoft’s integrated technology stack and unsurpassed financial strength, this provides a growth platform for today and tomorrow. Iteration2 is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, a leading provider of Microsoft Dynamics AX (formerly Microsoft Axapta), and the 2005 US MBS Partner of the Year, and recently announced 2006 US MBS Partner of the Year.

Iteration2’s industry focus, enterprise software domain experience, and exceptional capabilities with Dynamics and Microsoft platform and tools provide its clients with clear strategic business advantage. Iteration2 is based in Irvine, CA and has sales offices in strategic locations throughout the United States. Please visit the company’s website at www.iteration2.com.

For more information:
Greg Sad,
Marketing Director
Iteration2
(949) 789-1020

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:07 AM | Comments (0)

Connect802 Celebrates Designing Over One Billion Square Feet of Wi-Fi Systems

RF engineering team passes significant milestone, having designed Wi-Fi wireless systems for largest-recorded combined area. Special offer announced in conjunction with the event.

San Ramon, CA (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 – Connect802 Corporation, equipment integrator of bundled Commercial and Metro Area Wireless solutions, today announced the impressive milestone, having designed over one billion square feet of Wi-Fi network systems. Special US price reductions were announced for August and September 2006 in conjunction with the occasion.

“With the completion of several key projects this month, we have achieved what few Wi-Fi design and consulting companies have ever done,” said Joe Bardwell, president of Connect802 Corporation. “Our wide-ranging, nationwide experience with indoor and outdoor installation sites has allowed the Connect802 RF engineering team to create remarkably accurate predictive CAD designs, typically without an onsite survey. This provides customers with a highly accurate installation plan, avoiding weak areas and dead spots that are often overlooked during a legacy onsite engagement.”

The Wi-Fi designs have included in-building Wi-Fi, hot zones, and metro area wireless networks. Various technologies were employed based on the particular project, including 802.11 b/g, 802.11a, 4.9 GHz public safety systems and point-to-multipoint backhaul including WiMAX.

Jason Davies, President of Davies Computer Solutions, Inc., a targeted solutions provider offering customized technology for the business market, summed it up by saying, “Connect802 has helped us succeed in a number of diverse project areas bringing up Wi-Fi systems in offices, hospitals and warehouses. Having the flexibility to use predictive modeling and on-site consulting helps us provide the highest quality, start-to-finish wireless solutions.”

To celebrate this remarkable achievement, all Connect EZ Solution Suites sold in the US before September 30, 2006 will receive an automatic 15% discount off retail prices. Connect EZ Solution Suites are bundled turnkey Wi-Fi systems and include the accurate Wi-Fi designs necessary to confidently set up secure Wi-Fi networks.

About Connect802 Corporation

Connect802 Corporation, founded in 1994, is a privately-held wireless network equipment integrator and RF design consulting firm. The company's products and services are an extension of its flagship patent-pending predictive design methods found in the Connect EZ Solution Suites and Suite Spot Predictive Site Survey for Commercial and Metro Area Wireless deployments. The Connect802 organization includes channel partners and affiliates with installation services available from over 200 locations across the United States. Visit http://www.Connect802.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:06 AM | Comments (0)

Kessler America Offers Manufacturing Companies Ergonomic Solutions On Internet Radio Show

Interview Focuses On How Kessler Ergonomic Height-Adjustable Worktables Can Help Manufacturing Companies Increase Their Profits

Norcross, GA (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- John Kovacs, V.P. & G.M. of Kessler America, a world leading supplier of top quality height-adjustable ergonomic worktables and components, was the sole guest on the recent Better Process Internet radio program discussing ergonomics for manufacturing companies.

“Billions of hours and dollars are lost in manufacturing,” says Kovacs. “Besides facing fierce competition from overseas, manufacturing companies also want to know how they can reduce lost-time incidents, increase their productivity, improve product quality and decrease workers compensation related issues.”

During his interview, Kovacs offers solutions and industrial case studies that can help companies operate more efficiently and more profitably. Listeners will discover how quickly and easily workflow and material handling can be improved by incorporating KESSLER worktables.

Listeners can tune in for the 5 minute interview at any time simply by visiting
http://www.podcasternews.com/programs/87/better-process-podcast/2327/

Combining old-time values with cutting-edge technology, Kessler was founded in Southern Germany in 1897 and is considered a world leading provider of top quality ergonomic height-adjustable worktables, sewing machine pedal systems and components. Their modular design enables hundreds of configurations as well as customized solutions for various industries.

For information: www.kessler-ergo.com or
Phone: 001-678-793-4100

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:04 AM | Comments (0)

LS Industries Table Blaster Efficient and Affordable

LS Industries adds the table blaster to its lineup of products. The addition gives LS Industries clients another affordable option for shot blast cleaning. Standard sizes will be available and custom models will be designed to meet specific cleaning needs.

Wichita, KS (PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- LS Industries adds the table blaster to its lineup of products. The addition gives LS Industries clients another affordable option for shot blast cleaning. Standard sizes will be available and custom models will be designed to meet specific cleaning needs.

LS Industries line of table blaster will include 3', 4', 5', 6', 7', 8', 10' and 12' diameter tables. Work heights can vary from 19" - 60" will be available. Work weights can range from 1,500 lbs to 40,000 lbs. Custom table blasters can be designed for your shot blasting needs.

Typical cleaning operations for the table blaster include: castings, forgings, foundry, parts to large to tumble and parts that might be damaged in a tumble blast machine. The table blasters are versatile and can blast off rust, scale and prepare surfaces for further finishing.

All LS Industries’ Table Blasters are built from the ground up with dependability in mind. LS Blasters are built from rugged steel and alloy steel with welded construction. Replaceable “wear resistant” liner materials are strategically positioned inside the cabinet, to absorb the brunt of the impact from the abrasive. These machines are built to provide years of trouble free service with minimal maintenance.

At the heart of the LS Table Blaster is the LS TurboShot™ impeller. This impeller consists of eight blades mounted on a rotating drive shaft. As shot enters the LS TurboShot™ housing, it is fed directly into the path of the impeller blades to create a blast stream that maximizes the impact/coverage ratio. The LS TurboShot™ impeller features replaceable, wear resistant blades to simplify maintenance and reduce downtime.
LS Industries’ Table Blasters are designed for easy operation!

Our standard blasters feature hinge mounted doors for easy access. Our tables are specially constructed from rugged manganese/steel alloys. The door opening exposes 40% of the table for easy parts loading and removal. Just close the door and set the timer. Shot usage is monitored by indicator lights and an analog readout of amperes being drawn by the LS TurboShot™ impeller wheels.

LS Industries’ Dust Collectors are built specifically for each application. All Table Blasters require dust collection. Our custom built collectors are matched to each machine to provide the proper amount of suction to remove debris and keep your shot clean. All Table Blaster quotations include dust collector recommendations.

Founded in 1977 - LS Industries - Designer and manufacturer of metal cleaning equipment including abrasive blast cleaning systems, degreasing and finishing equipment, washing machines and water blasting equipment. Custom structural airless shot blast cabinets using conveyor and monorail systems, available in various sizes and shapes. Vibratory shakers and tumblers, tumble blasters and rubber belt blasters. Other products include pressure, flow-through, industrial, jet spray and rotary washers, spray systems and aqueous infrared, batch ovens, gas and electric ovens. Rim clean and refurbishing, pressure cylinder cleaning, brake deliners and powder coating equipment.

For further information visit http://www.lsindustries.com or contact us directly by calling 316-265-7997 or toll free at 800-835-0218. LS Industries is dedicated to developing new technologies and new cleaning solutions. It is LS Industries' commitment and experience that will carry us forward as an innovator and leading manufacturer of metal cleaning, profiling and surface preparation equipment.

Contact:
LS Industries
710 E 17th Street
Wichita, KS 67214
1 800-835-0218 x224
316-265-7997 x224
www.lsindustries.com
Britton Harper
Marketing Director

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:02 AM | Comments (0)

Energy Conserving Doors

Energy Conserving Doors by Kaiser Doors are high speed energy saving doors used in the industries to reduce the cost and increase productivity for better management.

(PRWEB) August 17, 2006 -- Energy conservation is the one of the most important concern of businesses and organizations these days and rightly so. As energy saved is money saved and any procedures and processes adopted to do so help in reducing the overall running costs of an organization and businesses. Energy conserving doors from Kaiser Doors are one such energy saving door that helps in saving energy.

Energy Saving Doors help in reducing costs as these are fast operated doors with reduced operating time. These doors are generally used in industrial setups in high traffic areas as the high speed of the door helps in ensuring heat retention, control airborne and noise pollution. It helps in controlling environment, reducing repair cost of the door and improving the traffic flow. All these factors contribute in creating a comfortable working environment and thereby increasing the productivity of the organization.

Kaiser Doors offers two types of high speed doors - Kaiser Pack and Kaiser Roll. The Kaiser Pack doors are essentially for external use. They are made for industries that require strongly built high speed doors. The fold up action and the integral steel windbars of the doors can resist wind speed of about 60mph. the honeycomb version is used for places with severe wind conditions.

Kaiser roll is the high speed door for internal use and has the roll up action. It is best suited for areas where space is limited. As it can be installed with minimum disruption and site preparation and can be used to separate internal areas. The doors are time saving, energy saving and money saving alternatives to the traditional doors.

Kaiser doors provide many specialized doors like fire doors, overhead doors, PVC curtain strips etc besides Energy Saving Doors. The Kaiser Door manufacturer’s use the finest material, innovative designs and advanced engineering techniques that sets them apart. The doors fulfill the specialized needs of the various commercial and industrial establishments that the traditional doors fail to accomplish.

Visit the site www.rollershutterdoors.com to gain detailed information about the various types of Kaiser Doors available and their varied uses and functions that make them so special.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:01 AM | Comments (0)

Supply Today smart logistics ® New Website Launch Announcement

Supply Today is pleased to announce it has launched a newly designed logistics website. This site is dedicated to providing SME's with a simple and less expensive way to improve customer service, inventory management and warehousing results.

Sydney, NSW, Australia (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Supply Today is pleased to announce it has launched a newly designed website.

The new design, created by Creative Fusion, went live at: http://www.supplytoday.com

"We are very pleased with the new website design and structure, said John Hogg, Managing Director".

The website provides detailed information on all of Supply Today’s products and services and showcases a great benefits story for companies in a number of unique industries. Supply Today is quickly evolving as a company and we believe the website will keep potential customers informed of new developments and exciting new products we are offering.

The new design makes access to Support Services a priority. The user-friendly interface also makes access to Logistics products easier and all in one place.

What can Supply Today offer your business?

Cost Reductions: Gain the knowledge, expertise, and information from consulting experts, without the time, research and associated cost.

Flexible Logistic Solutions: From turn-key logistics policies and procedures to easy-to-implement logistics products, you choose the solution or products that best meets your needs.

Convenience, smart logistics templates and products are extremely easy to understand and implement. Simply apply them to your existing operation.

What else should you know about Supply Today and its new site?

We are more than simply a logistics company – we are a fully integrated smart logistics solutions provider.

We give your company the tools you need to stand out from your competitors.

Get a greater return on investment on your logistics spending.

Let’s face it; you have many choices when it comes to Logistics solutions. We understand that you have probably been approached by many of our competitors. Perhaps some of their offer appeared to be beneficial. We guarantee we can provide more. In fact, we’d like to present you with a great opportunity.

What are we offering? When you contact us in the next two weeks, we will set up an absolutely free, no obligation consultation meeting with you to review your business needs.

So, how do you get in on this limited time offer?

Call us at 1300 486 329. Or check us out online.
We’d love to tell you more about this site, let you know about all of our products and services as well as answer any questions that you may have.

Engage Supply Today smart logistics ® to achieve results from your logistics processes in a revolutionary new way.

We look forward to working with you to improve your customer service, inventory control and warehousing processes!

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:58 AM | Comments (0)

Costco Rolls Out Environmentally-Responsive Retail Packaging

Industry retail leader helps reduce "wrap rage" by replacing plastic clamshell packaging with MeadWestvaco's paperboard-based Natralock™.

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- When Costco examines retail product packaging for the thousands of items offered in each of its warehouse club stores, only one issue is on the table: making merchandise available to its members in the ‘right way.’ The ‘right way’ includes offering packaging that does not rely on environmentally-harmful materials. Now, after two years of research and development, this industry leader is replacing some plastic clam shells with Natralock™, a new paperboard-based product made by MeadWestvaco that lets consumers in, reduces shrink to a minimum, and is kinder to the environment.

"It’s all about doing the right thing for our members and the world we live in," explains Scott Carnie, General Manager of Costco East Coast Packaging. "At the core of our company philosophy is the implicit understanding that each of us must conduct ourselves in an ethical manner every day. That includes protecting our natural resources. In fact, the Costco Employee Code of Ethics states we will exceed ecological standards in every community where we do business and provide products to our members that will be ecologically sensitive."

Until recently, being ecologically sensitive was difficult in a retail culture that required over packaging to deter ever increasing theft statistics. Plastic clam shell packaging has been the standard for security given its outstanding theft resistance and merchandising benefits. However, under increasing environmental pressure because of its limited recyclability not to mention the "wrap rage", these materials are spawning worldwide as consumers fight their way into their purchases. Wrap rage is defined as the frustration encountered by opening protective plastic packaging.

"It’s about creating the right package to protect high value items from shrinkage, but still making the products accessible to the consumer," explains Carnie. Natralock’s tear-resistant and theft-deterrent properties allow us to achieve both goals." Natralock’s flat surface can be safely opened with a pair of ordinary kitchen scissors in the consumer’s home, without the frustration of cutting through the welded ridges typically found in traditional clamshells.

The key component of Natralock is paperboard, a renewable resource. Items are placed in an APET (amorphous polyester) "bubble", an environmental preferable material to current plastics, then sandwiched between two pieces of paperboard and sealed. The paperboard is printed with clear, bold graphics and wording, creating an attractive "billboard" which draws consumers to the product.

Costco’s New Jersey fulfillment center has begun a rollout of Natralock, beginning with the repackaging of five high value products.

The Recyclability Question
"The use of recycled materials and the ability to recycle our throw-away packaging was always key," Carnie emphasized. "When I saw how MeadWestvaco works recycled materials back into its CNK® (Coated Natural Kraft®) paperboard and how the final product could be separated, allowing the paperboard portion to be recycled by consumers, I knew we had arrived at a sustainable option that would reduce the amount of plastics we use and offer the security we need at the necessary cost point."

A Solution Evolution
If necessity is the mother of invention, then Natralock is the perfect case study according to Michael Wade, MeadWestvaco project manager. "Costco caters to a higher class of customer by placing priority on its members, having high-quality goods, and a solid reputation," says Wade. "However, the warehouse-club format affords little ability to store goods behind cabinets, intentionally providing greater access to high value merchandise."

The warehouse club format is focused on offering the best value possible for its members. This dictated product packaging that:
- Reduced the company’s dependency on petroleum-based polymers
- Displayed the product prominently
- Was tamper-resistant
- Offered a high quality look in terms of materials and print

"By its very nature, protective retail packaging is a throw-away item so these materials can’t be expensive," states Carnie. "After all, the whole idea is to sell the item at the best value possible. Natralock achieves the goal of being a cost-effective retail packaging solution to theft while allowing the product to sit on the shelf, and not in a locked cage."

Both MeadWestvaco and Costco see security packaging as a work in progress. According to Carnie, "we have identified a product that works extremely well. Using the synergies and ideas shared between the two companies, I believe we can work with Natralock to continue its evolution."

"Consumers are holding the retailer, rather than the manufacturer, increasingly accountable for over packaging," states Mike Skrovanek, MeadWestvaco’s general manager for Natralock. "Retailers like Costco can use their clout to make the retail packaging changes consumers are now demanding. Costco has been a very progressive partner willing to look at new ideas, to make changes for a positive environmental performance."

Costco Wholesale Corporation currently operates 473 warehouses, including 346 in the United States and Puerto Rico, 68 in Canada, 17 in the United Kingdom, 5 in Korea, 4 in Taiwan, 5 in Japan and 28 in Mexico. The Company also operates Costco Online, an electronic commerce web site, at www.costco.com and at www.costco.ca in Canada.

Natralock® is now available from MeadWestvaco, a global packaging company that delivers high-value packaging solutions and products to the world's most recognized companies in the food and beverage, media and entertainment, personal care, cosmetic and healthcare industries. The company also has market-leading positions in its Consumer & Office Products, Specialty Chemicals and Specialty Papers businesses. MeadWestvaco, with operations in more than 29 countries, has been selected for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, and manages all of its forestlands in accordance with internationally recognized forest certification standards. To learn how Natralock makes life easier for retailers, consumers and the environment, visit www.natralock.com or call 804-327-6331 for more information.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:57 AM | Comments (0)

Terry Tamminen Joins The Management Team of AbTech Pacific

Former Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency joins the AbTech Pacific team to lead strategic planning and development.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- AbTech Pacific, the premier west coast distributor of pioneering stormwater filtration technology, announced today the appointment of long time environmental advocate, Terry Tamminen to the firm’s senior management team. As a senior member of the management team, Temminen will be focused on leading strategic planning and development. Most recently, Terry served as Senior Advisor to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and as the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency to which he was appointed by the Governor in 2003.

"Terry brings a wealth of knowledge about AbTech Pacific's main goal as a company - - clean water," said Larry Lippon, senior partner in AbTech Pacific. "We look forward to having Terry on board as we explore new emerging markets for AbTech Pacific and continue to prove that California companies can be both profitable and help the environment."

Prior to serving in state government, Terry Tamminen founded the Santa Monica BayKeeper in 1993 and served as its Executive Director for six years. He co-founded several Waterkeeper programs in San Diego, Orange County, Ventura, and Santa Barbara and served as the Executive Director of the Environment Now Foundation, a foundation dedicated to the restoration and protection of California’s environment and natural resources. He also has extensive management experience from many years in the real estate and recreational services industries.

"AbTech Pacific has a great product line and a great team," Tamminen said. "I plan to help them put their technology to work for many more municipal and commercial customers, demonstrating that you can meet clean water obligations in a cost-effective manner."

About AbTech Pacific
AbTech Pacific is the premier west coast distributor of highly effective and adaptable, customized storm water solutions that control and remove the oil, grease, bacteria, sediment and trash and debris that are threatening the quality of California’s water sources.
Manufactured by AbTech Industries, Inc., an Arizona based company, AbTech’s products incorporate a polymer-based filtration material, the Smart Sponge®, a technology that effectively removes pollutants from flowing or pooled water, encapsulating them so that they cannot be released back into the environment even under high pressure. In addition, AbTech is the first company to combine an antimicrobial agent in its filtration material and to provide a solution that effectively destroys bacteria at the street level before they can enter waterways or foul beaches.

The Environmental Protection Agency has included AbTech’s Ultra-Urban® Filter series with Smart Sponge technology as a Best Management Practice (BMP) under the federal environmental guidelines that apply to local and state governments. Please visit: http://www.abtechindustries.com to learn more about AbTech’s products.

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

Emcien Selected for Follow-on NSF Grant

"With a growing number of features and options, and shorter product lifecycles, companies are being proliferated to death," explained Roy Marsten, Emcien’s Chief Scientist. " This proliferation costs companies 18 to 25 percent product margin. Companies need a sustainable solution to manage and monitor this proliferation on a continuous basis – Emcien delivers that solution." Emcien, Inc. has been awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support development and commercialization of techniques to address the challenges due to product complexity.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- "With a growing number of features and options, and shorter product lifecycles, companies are being proliferated to death," explained Roy Marsten, Emcien’s Chief Scientist. " This proliferation costs companies 18 to 25 percent product margin. Companies need a sustainable solution to manage and monitor this proliferation on a continuous basis – Emcien delivers that solution."

Emcien, Inc. has been awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support development and commercialization of techniques to address the challenges due to product complexity.

Emcien was awarded the grant through NSF’s Division of Design, Manufacture and Industrial Innovation, which helps improve the competitiveness of the country’s manufacturing base. Emcien’s solutions have already resulted in millions of dollars of material cost reduction for automotive and heavy machinery companies. The NSF grant will help to further Emcien’s research and support the commercialization of additional modules.

The trend toward mass customization to meet customer demands has created a complex issue that manufacturing companies must address to remain competitive, notes Robert Springfield, a manufacturing specialist at the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program.

"Mass customization and the unrelenting competitive pressure to increase customer-selected features and options is an enormous problem for manufacturing companies," he said. "The complexity of large-scale customization results in raw material and finished goods inventory imbalances, order fulfillment problems and disruptions in supply chain. Emcien’s optimization technology deals with the core issue of what combinations of features and options will yield the best results."

Springfield says more traditional approaches to the optimization problem strive only to improve the business processes that support mass customization.

"Building the right product configurations to meet customer needs is essential to competing in today’s marketplace," Marsten added.

"Companies do not build Model T’s. To survive in the global market, manufacturing companies need solutions that can help manage their product variety, and react efficiently to changing feature/option demand," he said. "We are honored that the NSF recognizes the importance of our mission to help manufacturing companies be more competitive."

About Emcien, Inc.
Emcien, Inc. is a pioneer in researching product complexity reduction and its impact on manufacturing companies. Emcien’s roster of blue-chip clients has demonstrated that reducing complexity can unlock the tied up capital of your operations and the margin potential of your products. Emcien’s proven software solutions are built on patent-pending optimization technology based on more than ten years of leading-edge research and industry partnerships started at Georgia Institute of Technology.
Emcien is a privately held company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and can be reached at www.emcien.com.

Emcien Contact - Media Relations
404.920.1990
404.385.6092 /fax

About the National Science Foundation
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering, with an annual budget of nearly $5.47 billion. NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 universities and institutions. Each year, NSF receives about 40,000 competitive requests for funding, and makes about 11,000 new funding awards.

About the ATDC
Georgia Institute of Technology’s Advanced Technology Development Center is a nationally recognized science and technology incubator that helps Georgia entrepreneurs launch and build successful companies, providing strategic business advice and connecting its member companies to the people and resources they need to succeed. More than 100 companies have emerged from the ATDC, including publicly traded firms such as MindSpring Enterprises – now part of EarthLink.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:53 AM | Comments (0)

Oregon Firm Releases Updated Risk Management Tools

New versions of LossFree Rx and COI Track have been released. These are web-based applications that help reduce incident rates and associated costs by managing risk.

(PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Oregon owned Succeed Management Solutions, LLC announced the release of updated versions of its two flagship software solutions today -- LossFree Rx and COI Track.

"We've taken what was already the most advanced risk management platform on the web and made it even better," said Curt Shaw, Succeed’s President.

LossFree Rx offers users a searchable library of loss control and safety content -- from training and safety programs, to audit tools and usage reports. Organized to enhance ease of use, the program is unique in the industry because is allows users to edit and customize documents. The second product,

COI Track, automates one of the most tedious tasks facing any firm that uses contractors -- certificate of insurance tracking. The software helps businesses track vendors, contractors, and supplier certificates of insurance.

Firms that choose Succeed’s tools will enjoy many benefits, including:
* Easy access through web-based application
* Material Safety Data Sheet info available from any workstation with web access
* Built-in oversight reports
* Comprehensive library based on industry best practices
* Web-based training, injury, and incident tracking
* Certificate of insurance tracking for multiple vendors
* Foundation for a Behavior Based Safety Program
* Drug testing services

According to Shaw, the company’s web-based risk management software platforms are designed specifically to reduce incident rates and associated costs.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:50 AM | Comments (0)

Glamorous Fashion Designer Interprets Underground Subcultures

What happens when two complete opposites attract? One, an international renowned couture designer, a lover of life and a creator of beautiful and luxurious beach fashion. The others, rebellious and proud individuals from underground subcultures with uncompromising convictions and beliefs. On the face of it, the two worlds would never mix. But the reality was so different.

(PRWEB via PR Web Direct) August 16, 2006 -- What happens when two complete opposites attract? One, an international renowned couture designer, a lover of life and a creator of beautiful and luxurious beach fashion. The others, rebellious and proud individuals from underground subcultures with uncompromising convictions and beliefs. On the face of it, the two worlds would never mix. But the reality was so different.

The result is a passionate affair and the birth of beach fashion never seen before. Unexpected and unique, Poison by Panoe (www.panos.com) defines a new provocative horizon in swimwear fashion. Founded on the union of high fashion and underground culture, the collection combines influences from Punk, Metal, Goth and Oi!, delivering a visually striking collection that is both sophisticated, uncompromising and true to its origin.

“People in common are often confined by boundaries of prejudice. My role as a designer is to exceed these boundaries in order to create progression,” says Panos Papadopoulos, founder of Panos Emporio and head of the design department.

“To me, all groundbreaking design is rebellious by definition. I therefore set out on a mission to find the true rebels of today. Not before long I met with goths, skatepunks, streetpunks and metal heads. Penetrating these subcultures, I soon found out we had a lot in common; being true to our convictions and sharing a healthy disrespect for authorities and mainstream pre-packaged beliefs.”

Poison by Panos premiered on simultaneous events in Moscow and Athens last week and received an enthusiastic welcome by the press and public.

“Designing fashion for these individual and proud souls was a fascinating and challenging task that forced me to re-evaluate my personal definition of beauty, and I am truly proud of the result that is both commercial and true to the values I have come to embrace,” Papadopoulos said.

Poison by Panos is a limited edition collection that will only be available through a few selected retailers.

Fact Sheet
Panos Emporio (www.panos.com)
The company was started from scratch almost 20 years ago by Panos Papadopoulos, who is the head designer and CEO of the company. Panos was forced to flee from his native Greece because of his political conviction, and he created his swimwear empire in his new country Sweden. The success has been massive, and today the brand is marketed in approximately 30 countries around the globe, continuously expanding.

The reason for the huge success of the brand is Panos´ unique concept, built on understanding the needs of the customer and adapting to them. For 20 years Panos has worked hard the whole year around to refine the process, focusing on an innovative design which is at the very front in leading the trends. This concept permeates not only the creation of the designs; it also marks the way the company works in other areas such as marketing, PR and product development, where innovative thinking and a speedy work process are in focus. Panos´ way is to do things differently, with the need of the customer in focus, and always with a high service level.

The look of Panos´ design is simple with sophisticated, clean lines and very high standards for good quality. Panos Emporio offers a wide selection of collections to be able to target all personalities and styles; its target groups ranging from infants to the men and the women who wish to be at the front line regarding the latest trends.

The strength of the company is that it succeeds in combining a high service level, a high quality, a unique design, a great fitting and a very reasonable pricing. None of its competitors manages to offer all of these aspects, and this has led to the fact that Panos Emporio has been able to build an extremely faithful customer base.

A lot of focus is put on building and maintaining a high quality distribution network. For each market the options are evaluated, before choosing the best possible option for that very market. This has lead to different structures in different markets, but always with the quality in focus.

Since the start in 1986 the company has expanded across the world, continuously adding new markets. The concept has proven to work superbly in many different environments, thus enabling the expansion for the brand. In 2007 the export bid continues and in several new markets Panos Emporio is preparing to launch its successful concept.

About Panos Emporio
Panos Emporio (www.panos.com) is Scandinavia’s leading fashion house specialized in beachwear and accessories. Founded in 1986 by Mr. Panos Papadopoulos, the brand is characterized by innovation and distinct design that breathes style, quality and individuality. This has earned the brand an extremely loyal customer base with dedicated followers ranging from Hollywood stars and top celebrity models to world famous athletes and royalties. PANOS EMPORIO is recognized worldwide with distribution on four continents in more than 30 countries and in thousands of retail shops.

For further information and photos, please contact:
Henrik Kool
PANOS EMPORIO AB
+46 31 727 22 70

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:49 AM | Comments (0)

Executive Smarts, LLC Announces Strategic Partnership with Ingenuus Software to Deliver Business Process Improvement Management Software

Executive Smarts, LLC, announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Ingenuus Software Inc of Frisco, Texas, the leading supplier of Enterprise Process Orchestration (EPO) software, to deliver business process management improvement and automation services to small and midsized companies.

DFW, Texas (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -– Executive Smarts, LLC, announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Ingenuus Software Inc of Frisco, Texas, the leading supplier of Enterprise Process Orchestration (EPO) software, to deliver business process management improvement and automation services to small and midsized companies.

Under the terms of the partnership, Executive Smarts will offer process assessment, process documentation, process mapping, and process improvement consulting services. Ingenuus will provide the automation technology to allow these businesses to validate the process steps and tasks, gather metrics on performance, and analyze the data for improvement.

“When a company wants to address organizational excellence they look at their processes first,” says Jim Stewart, Executive Smarts CEO. Consultants from Executive Smarts work with executives and operations personnel to document and map critical processes that have never been documented or are in need of improvement. “In many cases,” explains Stewart, “the process has never been correctly documented. Just documenting and mapping the process is an incredibly useful exercise for everyone involved.”

Once a process is documented and mapped, companies often stop there. It is difficult to implement formal changes, and without formal changes with the appropriate data gathering to insure that the process is being followed, companies cannot realize the full benefit of the process documentation exercise. It takes time and effort on the part of the people using the process to collect the data for analysis. Without process automation, the task can be daunting. In the end, though, you cannot improve what you do not measure.

“Working with Executive Smarts, we have jointly developed a way to document and map a process, and deploy it over the web so that a company can use it immediately,” says Chris Williams, Ingenuus CEO. “The system automatically collects the data and metrics needed for review while the process is being used, and provides the discipline required to follow the documented process.” Companies that take advantage of this unique combination of consulting and technology will be able to complete an organizational excellence program faster and easier, while realizing more benefit sooner.

About Executive Smarts
Executive Smarts, LLC is a Dallas-based professional services organization serving a broad range of critical assignments and management duties for client companies lacking the internal resources or experience for their specific business requirements. These services include management development and training, customized competitive excellence tools, participating on advisory boards and boards of directors, and filling interim management positions.
www.executivesmarts.com

About Ingenuus
Ingenuus Software Inc., based in Frisco, Texas, is a leading supplier of Enterprise Process Orchestration (EPO) solutions for high tech and SMB manufacturers. Enterprise Orchestration revolutionizes process automation by making it easier to automate business processes, tasks, and steps, and transform them into easy to use web based applications.

Customers are using Ingenuus to orchestrate processes including Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), IT Trouble Tickets, Return Materials Authorizations (RMA), Quality Testing, New Product Introduction (NPI), Job Management for contract manufacturers and Compliance Management (like Sarbanes-Oxley). www.ingenuus.com

Ingenuus is a trademark of Ingenuus Software, Inc.
Executive Smarts is a trademark of Executive Smarts, LLC.

For more information on Executive Smarts, contact:
Jim Stewart
972-733-0704

For more information on Ingenuus, contact:

Scott Cleveland
972 377-4842

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:48 AM | Comments (0)

New Free-to-use Bulk Clearance Product Listing Service is Launched

One company's unwanted bulk clearance product can be another company's treasure, especially if that company is in a poor country. www.ClearanceProduct.com is a new free to use bulk listing service putting sellers in touch with prospective buyers.

Havant, UK (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- While eBay dominates the global market as the on-line auction house for consumers & businesses alike and in providing on-line shops for SMEs, what do you do if you have say 161,199 pieces of Abrasive Discs that you need to clear. Well that was a problem recently confronting a Scottish based engineering company.

Listing those clearance products on their own web-site was not an acceptable solution simply because it would not have looked good with their customers and suppliers, that they had so much excess inventory

eBay was considered, but because of the costs that would have been incurred irrespective of whether or not a sale was achieved and uncertainty as to how long such bulk clearance items would need listing, this seller decided to list with a new and completely free-to-use bulk listing service www.ClearanceProduct.com designed and operated by UK based Web-Store Ltd, designers of custom ecommerce shops.

Web-Store Ltd founder Ian Jones came up with the idea for such a site several years ago when a computer company he then owned suffered large stock write downs, much of which eventually ended up as waste. It was only in '06 that he was able to find the time to put his idea into action.

Jones acknowledges that there are several other similar services in the market but he claims that www.ClearanceProduct.com is the only site to provide the service completely free of charge for both sellers and buyers alike. Furthermore prospective buyers have direct access to listed clearance products and sellers details, without having to register. Listings are only accepted from businesses and only for bulk clearance products and unlike eBay, there is no time limit as to how long products can be listed.

Where sellers prefer not to have their details published, enquiries are routed through to Web-Store Ltd who then pass them onto sellers.

A combination of good search engine optimization for each clearance product and a monthly spend with Google Adwords is ensuring that www.ClearanceProduct.com which only came on-line in June 06, is receiving a steady growth in site visits from around the world.

When questioned as to how Web-Store Ltd could afford to offer their service for free, Jones said that it was a great way in showing off what Web-Store Ltd could do with their budget priced ecommerce designs and that the site was becoming a good source of sales leads for their ecommerce design services.

Web-Store Ltd
Broadmarsh Innovation Centre
Havant
Hampshire
PO9 1HS
+44 (0)23 9244 9636
www.webstore.co.uk

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:47 AM | Comments (0)

Ivesia Solutions, Inc. Selected by NSS Corp as Development Partner for NSS XSELLerator Solution

Ivesia Solutions, Inc, a global provider of outsourced product development (OPD) & custom development services, and NSS Corp, a leading provider of retail delivery solutions for the financial services industry, today announced their partnership designed to supplement NSS Corp’s development staff.

Salem, NH; Bedford, NH (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Ivesia Solutions, Inc, a global provider of outsourced product development (OPD) & custom development services, and NSS Corp, a leading provider of retail delivery solutions for the financial services industry, today announced their partnership designed to supplement NSS Corp’s development staff.

"NSS selected Ivesia as an offshore development partner after a thorough review of multiple vendors" says Doug Pearson, President, NSS Corp. "Ivesia's collective experience as an organization became clear during our meetings. Internally we could not match their skills for what we are charged."

Fortune 1000 companies & Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) rely on Ivesia Solutions, Inc. to reduce their project costs through a sensible mix of onsite consultants and expert offshore resources. With technology centers in the United States and India, Ivesia provides 24x7 software development and testing services, saving valuable time and getting software products to market faster.

Through this partnership, Ivesia will augment development efforts supporting one of NSS Corp’s flagship products. NSS XSELLerator is an enterprise-wide, web-enabled sales/referral performance measurement and incentive calculation solution. It is designed to help the financial industry to increase sales and achieve performance goals by providing reliable and timely performance reports and referral management solutions. NSS XSELLerator is used by financial institutions, community banks and credit unions throughout the United States.

“Being chosen over other providers to partner with NSS Corp illustrates the value of our commitment to delivering the highest quality services.” says Senraj Soundararajan, President of Ivesia Solutions, Inc. “We’re thrilled that NSS Corp recognized Ivesia’s unique ability to provide on-demand professional skills combined with years of software project management experience specific to the finance industry. We are confident Ivesia will be able to add a measurable impact to NSS Corp’s business.”

NSS Corp and Ivesia Solutions are both active members of The New Hampshire High Technology Council (www.nhhtc.org); whose purpose is to bring together representatives from the private and public sectors to establish and maintain financial, technical, management, legislative and educational support programs that encourage innovative research and technology-based industrial development in New Hampshire.

Ivesia Solutions, Inc. Selected by NSS Corp as Development Partner for NSS XSELLerator Solution (continued)

About Ivesia Solutions, Inc.
Ivesia Solutions Inc., www.ivesia.com, a CMMI-Level-5, ISO 9001:2000 Company, was born out of the need for a domestic/offshore outsourcing model done right. State-of-the-art technology centers in the U.S. and India provide 24x7 support, cost advantages of offshore development as well as the quality and security of domestic consultants and project management in the United States.

Ivesia works with Fortune 1000 companies and many smaller organizations across many industries to provide the highest quality of outsourced product development (OPD), custom software development, implementation, integration, maintenance, application testing and hosting. Headquartered in Salem, NH, Ivesia Solutions operates state-of-the-art software development facilities in the U.S. and Chennai, India.

About NSS Corp
NSS Corp is a privately-held company based in Bedford, New Hampshire that provides retail delivery automation solutions to the financial and banking industry. Incorporated in 1983, the company has worked with over 300 banks and credit unions implementing their technology in over 15,000 branches/offices worldwide. For more information, visit the company's web-site at www.nsscorp.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:45 AM | Comments (0)

Direct Controls Inks Deal With Precast Concrete Manufacturer

Direct Controls, Inc. (DCI) today announced a partnership with Tuscan Stoneworx, a manufacturer of precast concrete. Under the terms of the agreement, DCI will integrate its TruPathTM Controller with a Kuka industrial robot to automate Tuscan Stoneworx’s finishing process.

SALT LAKE CITY (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Direct Controls, Inc. (DCI) today announced a partnership with Tuscan Stoneworx, a manufacturer of precast concrete. Under the terms of the agreement, DCI will integrate its TruPathTM Controller with a Kuka industrial robot to automate Tuscan Stoneworx’s finishing process. Tuscan Stoneworx expects this to be the first of many robot based systems that it will purchase from DCI for its growing manufacturing process.

“We plan to purchase a number of turn-key systems from DCI to manufacture our growing line of stone products,” stated Marc Stephenson, President of Tuscan Stoneworx. “We expect that DCI will be an integral part of our automation process as we move forward with our business strategy. We have done an extensive search for a company like DCI and are fortunate to have found this capability here in our backyard in Utah.”

“DCI’s TruPathTM delivers new levels of precision use and productivity to robotics,” said Kyle Bowen Love, DCI’s CEO. “This technology allows robots to replace the time consuming hand finishing process currently used and provides scalability to Tuscan Stoneworx’s growing business. We are very pleased about the opportunity to work with Tuscan Stoneworx to help them automate and scale their business.”

Tuscan Stoneworx specializes in a precast concrete and finishing process that produces custom shapes with the appearance of polished architectural stone. Currently they use this process to produce high-end stone fireplaces, countertops, conference tables and various ends and trims for architectural requirements. Their finish process produces a glazed-polished finished and is unique and patented.

One of the greatest inhibitors to scaling the current process is the hand finishing required for each piece. DCI’s TruPathTM technology will allow a six-axis robot to replicate the current hand finishing process and be able to do it faster and more effectively. “DCI’s controller is the only robot controller that will allow a robot to follow the complex motions needed to produce the correct finish”, said Mark Evans, DCI’s Founder and Chief Technology Officer.

Utah-based Tuscan Stoneworx is being acquired by a technology licensing company, E.K. Industries, with the intent of replicating this shaping process on a grand scale. E.K. Industries will license these processes to other manufacturing and distribution companies around the world. Initial sales projections increase the number of units from less than 10 per month to thousands per month.

Under the agreement, Tuscan Stoneworx has agreed to a proof-of-concept, including NRE paid to DCI, to validate using a robot to finish the products. Upon successful completion of the proof-of-concept, Tuscan Stoneworx will take delivery of the first of many systems that it plans on buying. Tuscan Stoneworx’s goal is to have 24 systems installed within the first 12 months following completion of the proof-of-concept. In addition, they will be forming manufacturing partnerships with a number of companies as they expand the business world wide. These partners will also be purchasing systems.

About Direct Controls
Founded in 2001, Direct Controls, Inc. (DCI), (www.directcontrols.net) is a privately held company developing and marketing Direct-from-CAM Machining and Control (DMAC) technology for a broad range of industrial robotic applications. Direct Controls proprietary technology enables direct machining from Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) applications. The technology has patents pending in the U.S. and many foreign countries.

The revolutionary DMAC technology, initially developed with internal funding at Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, Utah, to the working prototype stage, is now well ahead of the competitive curve. BYU has patent pending covering the controller architecture, the digital interface, and the direct machining methods and concepts. DCI has an exclusive worldwide license to the technology from BYU.
Direct Controls, Inc. (DCI) has solved the complex and time-consuming problems of programming and control for robotic applications where path-following accuracy is critical. Their patented and patent-pending Direct-from-CAM Machining and Control (DMAC™) and TruPath™ contour-following technologies bring to the field of robotic applications the same ease of programming and path-following accuracy previously only possible from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machine controllers. DCI’s revolutionary TruPath™ robot controller delivers new levels of precision, use and productivity to robotics.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:44 AM | Comments (0)

Noisy Lab (of Japan) Selects ODIN’s Scientific RFID Tag Testing Software

HP Noisy Lab is a consortium of HP, IDEC Controls, Toyo Kanetsu Solutions and WL Solutions.

Dulles, VA; Tokyo, Japan (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Japan’s HP Noisy Lab – a joint venture between HP, IDEC Controls, Toyo Kanetsu Solutions and WL Solutions has selected and installed ODIN technologies’ EasyTagTM tag testing software. The software enables HP Noisy Lab to scientifically test items for optimal UHF RFID tagging. EasyTagTM is running in Noisy Lab today and operating at Japanese frequencies in the 952 – 954 MHz range.

Kevin MacDonald, ODIN technologies VP of Client Architecture commented, “Until now, the Japanese market has only had access to manual trial and error testing methods. With EasyTagTM, Japanese companies now have a scientific tool to determine what tag will work best and in which position. Recently ODIN announced European and Japanese support for the EasyTagTM testing tool. By adding the European and Japanese frequencies and power requirements to the mix, ODIN has created the only tool capable of testing RFID tags worldwide in multiple UHF bands.”

EasyTagTM works using ODIN's proven methodology of using the key metrics of Power Effectiveness and Orientation Sensitivity to arrive at an overall number of how well a tag and location perform on a SKU. After conducting thousands of SKU tests on behalf of clients, ODIN scientists knew that simplified testing and visualization of results was needed by end users and labs alike. ODIN first released it's highly acclaimed Trifecta RFID tag testing software in 2004 and EasyTagTM represents the next generation of automated scientific tag testing.

Yuichi Murano, President of ODIN Japan added "Noisy Lab chose ODIN’s EasyTagTM because it is the industry’s leading scientific RFID testing software and because it can test tags in all UHF frequencies worldwide. Backed by HP, IDEC, Toyo Kanetsu and WL Solutions, HP Noisy Lab is a leading innovator in Japan’s RFID market. We are happy to support Noisy Lab’s efforts in Japan with ODIN’s EasyTagTM which has been proven effective in dozens of RFID deployments by early adopters in the United States.”

Mr. Rokuro Iwase, a HP Noisy Lab partner and Corporate Office/General Manager of Toyo Kanetsu Solutions remarked, "EasyTagTM allows the Noisy lab to scientifically measure which tag and location has the best performance for a given product. It is the first time in Japan that the tag performance on a product can be accurately measured".

About ODIN technologies
ODIN technologies is the leader in the physics of RFID solution design, deployment, and installation optimization software. RFID is all we do. Global corporations on four continents leverage ODIN technologies’ expert engineers and patent-pending RFID optimization tools to achieve accuracy, visibility and speed in RFID deployments. In addition to client deployment services, ODIN technologies is also the publisher of the RFID Benchmark Series, the industry's first and most referenced head to head performance analysis of leading RFID tags and readers. ODIN's President and CEO, Patrick J. Sweeney II is also author of RFID for Dummies published by John Wiley & Sons. ODIN serves clients from offices in Virginia USA, Tokyo Japan and Budapest Hungary. www.ODINtechnologies.com

About HP Noisy Lab
At HP Noisy Lab Japan, HP works with logistics companies Toyo Kanetsu Solutions K.K. and WL Solutions Co., as well as factory automation specialist IDEC Controls to help Japanese companies adopt RFID solutions. The HP Noisy Lab, which is located in Toyo Kanetsu Solutions’ warehouse facility in Kisarazu, Chiba, opened in 2005. Toyo Kanetsu Solutions, a specialist in material handling systems. They are a subsidiary 100% owned by Toyo Kanetsu K.K. which transferred all of its materials handling systems business to Toyo Kanetsu Solutions. Their primary businesses are the planning, design, manufacture, construction and marketing of Material Handling & Solution Systems.

Contact:
Michelle Reilly
ODIN technologies, Trusted RFID Experts 703.966.7067

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:42 AM | Comments (0)

The Better Process Podcast Asks: Is Your Business Ready For a Flu Pandemic

Better Process Podcast releases a three part series on pandemic influenza planning for businesses with Chris Spence - President of Future Health Solutions.

Ft. Collins, CO (PRWEB) August 9, 2006 -- Better Process Podcast (voice of the small and mid-sized manufacturing firm) releases a three part series on pandemic influenza planning for businesses with Chris Spence - President of Future Health Solutions. Future Health Solutions works with wide variety of companies for pandemic influenza planning, preparation and business continuity planning.

Mr. Spence presents frequently to public health and business groups on pandemic influenza. These presentations are typically 1 to 2 hours. The three 5 minute podcasts have attempted to introduce each of the following topics:

Podcast 1: Science and history of pandemics (release 8-14)
Podcast 2: Current situation and government planning efforts (release 8-15)
Podcast 3: Business impact and business continuity planning. (release 8-16)

"We are pleased to have such a knowledgeable guest about this topic on our show,” says Ken Rayment podcaster for the Better Process Podcast on PodcasterNews.com. “Although Chris is very typical of the person we interview – very specific and detailed information in their topic area; we typically do not hear from the health industry in our manufacturing focused podcast.”

The first show in the 3 part series can be found at:
http://www.podcasternews.com/programs/87/better-process-podcast/2431/

All three shows have a permanent link and will remain on the PodcasterNews.com site. Links to these shows will not break in the future.

About Better Process Podcast
Based in Colorado and across the US via Skype, the Better Process Podcast interviews small and mid-sized manufacturing companies, and the companies that service these companies. Shows are free to download from iTunes (search for Better Process Podcast in iTunes music store) and are available most business days. More information on the show can be found at http://www.BetterProcess.com. The Better Process Podcast is the voice of the small and mid-sized manufacturing firm.

About Future Health Solutions
Future Health Solutions works with wide variety of companies for pandemic influenza planning, preparation and business continuity planning. To see or hear more on this topic or to discuss how Future Health Solutions can help your company prepare for pandemic flu, contact Chris at (860) 368-2435.

About PodcasterNews.com
PodcasterNews hosts short podcasts up to 5 Minutes in length produced by our network of content producers. It is a place to listen to your own news selections in 3 easy steps. 1. Create a free PCN account 2. Choose the shows that interest you 3. Listen to your show: Listen on the site using MyCast or add your custom RSS feed to your favorite podcatcher. Your feed will stay updated with new content. As you add or remove shows your MyCast list and your custom RSS feed stays updated.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:41 AM | Comments (0)

Lean Innovation CUBE Methodology Being Used by Designers of Next Generation U.S. Warship

The Institute for Lean Innovation is helping ship designers at Bath Iron Works (BIW), a General Dynamics Company, to significantly reduce the manufacturing cost of the high tech DDG 1000 (Zumwalt Class) next generation Destroyer. The DDG 1000 will be the most advanced surface warship in the world.

Mackinac Island, MI (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Lean Innovation CUBE methodology being used by designers of next generation U.S. Warship.

The Institute for Lean Innovation is helping ship designers at Bath Iron Works (BIW), a General Dynamics Company, to significantly reduce the manufacturing cost of the high tech DDG 1000 (Zumwalt Class) next generation Destroyer. The DDG 1000 will be the most advanced surface warship in the world

The Institute for Lean Innovation, creators of the Lean Innovation CUBE, reports that BIW engineers are applying the Lean Innovation CUBE to deliver cost and quality results from the beginning of the final design process. The Lean Innovation CUBE provides the designers and engineers with a systematic innovation process that is measurable and repeatable at every stage of their work. The high technology DDG 1000 has been has been under constant threat of delay due to cost, making the need for innovative ideas during the design phase a priority for BIW.

The Institute has been involved with the U.S. Navy on the development of the DDG 1000 since its first inception as the SC 21. The initial focus was on developing a high level of innovation in the ship. As the Lean Innovation CUBE methodology has been implemented; cost reductions for some systems are projected to be as high as 35 percent or more. Design engineers have done this without degrading the performance of the high tech ship. The Lean Innovation CUBE contains a measurement metric system to predict cost reductions before designs are approved.

BIW’s Cost reductions for the existing DDG 51 (Arleigh Burke Class) have primarily been done during ship construction. Navy shipbuilders now have strong lean initiatives in place and are moving their lean thinking “upstream” to the design phase. The Lean Innovation CUBE enables BIW to find the best system candidates for cost reduction. It then helps them apply lean principles to significantly reduce those systems and immediately measure the results. The Lean Innovation CUBE gives these designers instant feedback on their ideas.

The U.S. Navy has announced that the first DD(X) destroyer will be designated DDG 1000. The lead ship in the class will be named in honor of former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. “Bud” Zumwalt, Jr. Developed under the advanced DD(X) destroyer program, the Zumwalt is the lead ship in a class of next-generation, multi-mission surface combatants tailored for land attack and littoral dominance with capabilities designed to defeat current and projected threats as well as improve battle force defense.

The 600’ Zumwalt Class destroyer will be manned by a crew of only 142, less than half the previous class ship. It is capable of speeds in excess of thirty knots. By comparison, the Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer, the only destroyer currently on active duty, is only 506’ in length and is manned by a crew of over 300.

The Institute of Lean Innovation helps the worlds largest companies develop a culture of innovation using the Lean Innovation CUBE. For more information about the institute, visit its website at www.innovationcube.com. To request an online demonstration of the Lean Innovation CUBE, call 906-847-6094.

Media Contact:
John Keogh
Institute for Lean Innovation
Phone 906-847-0966

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:35 AM | Comments (0)

Altico Advisors Sponsors Special Event at Microsoft Technology Center

Altico Advisors LLC, a Microsoft Certified Partner, today announced that they will be sponsoring a special “technology envisioning” event on September 13th at the Microsoft Technology Center (MTC) in Waltham, Massachusetts. The presentation, entitled “Two Tales of Four Cities: Connected Workers, Connected Systems,” will include two collaborative scenarios to illustrate how typical day-to-day business issues are quickly and efficiently resolved using integrated Microsoft systems.

Marlborough, MA (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- Altico Advisors LLC - www.AlticoAdvisors.com - a Microsoft Certified Partner, today announced that they will be sponsoring a special “technology envisioning” event on September 13th at the Microsoft Technology Center (MTC) in Waltham, Massachusetts. The presentation, entitled “Two Tales of Four Cities: Connected Workers, Connected Systems,” will include two collaborative scenarios to illustrate how typical day-to-day business issues are quickly and efficiently resolved using integrated Microsoft systems.

The live applications being demonstrated are Microsoft Dynamics GP for financial and business management, Microsoft Dynamics CRM for customer relationship management and sales force automation, and SharePoint Services for executive dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs).

The MTC’s Envisioning Center is an exclusive venue for small group presentations. Two sessions are available on Wednesday, September 13th. The morning session will run from 8:00 to 11:00am while the afternoon session will run from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Attendance is limited to 25 business executives at each session.

Interested parties can contact Altico Advisors by phone or e-mail for more information. 508-485-5588 x107

About Altico Advisors
Headquartered in Massachusetts, Altico Advisors implements and supports business and financial management software solutions for mid-market companies throughout New England. Altico is a certified Microsoft Business Solutions partner, specializing in Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) systems for manufacturing and distribution companies. In addition, Altico provides a wide variety of consulting and advisory services, such as outsourced financial services, business and IT strategy alignment, software selection, and business analytics. www.AlticoAdvisors.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:34 AM | Comments (0)

ServerLift Corporation Awarded U.S. General Services Administration Contract

ServerLift Corporation announces successful entry into the USA General Services Administration(GSA) listing. GSA Contract #GS-35F-0386S.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) August 16, 2006 -- ServerLift Corporation, the manufacturer of the ergonomically designed SL500 data center safety and productivity device, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a contract from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). A link has been added to the web-based GSA Schedules e-Library simplifying the ordering process for government entities and contractors. Contract number is GS-35F-0386S.

ServerLift Corporation’s SL500 is a motorized device for moving computer servers and rack-mountable equipment within a data center environment. It is one of the few known devices offering improved safety and increased productivity.

The SL500 has the capability of safely and efficiently lifting and re-locating servers and other data center equipment that weigh up to 500 pounds -- and raising the equipment as high as eight feet. The SL500 can help reduce the risk of back injuries, according to OSHA: “The nation’s #1 workplace-safety problem.” Hence our slogan: If it’s not a ServerLift…it’s a liabilityTM.

The ServerLift has been purchased and is being employed at a broad range of users, including government agencies, defense contractors, Fortune 500 companies and educational institutions. Cornell University has placed the SL500 on its ergonomics website, as an example of a safe approach for installing computers, servers and related equipment.

Additional information on the SL500 can be found on the company’s website at www.serverlift.com. The site includes videos and animations of the unit being used for data center re-configuration.
ServerLift Corporation is located in Phoenix, Arizona. Its management identified that a device was needed to help:

• Minimize/prevent system downtime
• Avoid data loss and hardware damage
• Increase productivity
• Avoid injuries, insurance claims, and lawsuits

Over three years of research, design and development, working with global companies in a variety of industries, were invested in the SL500. Development partners provided data and feedback ensuring that the device directly meets user requirements. The end result is the ServerLift solution. SL500 customers can now easily and safely manage the installation, service and migration of data center mission critical hardware.

Joel M. Kushnir, Ph.D.
Vice President
ServerLift Corporation
(602) 254-1557 ext. 28
ServerLift Corporation
821 North 2nd Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
www.serverlift.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:33 AM | Comments (0)

August 15, 2006

Granite Energy, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Irving Technical Drilling

Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) August 15, 2006 -- Granite Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq OTC: GNGI) (the company), today announced that its board of directors has unanimously approved, and the company has subsequently closed on its acquisition of Irving Technical Drilling, Inc. Irving Technical Drilling (ITC) is a Nevada-based corporation with operations in Texas and Oklahoma. Granite Energy targeted the ITC acquisition as it allows the company the flexibility to utilize its own assets to efficiently execute its business plan. "The crown-jewel in the ITC portfolio was the recent delivery of a Schramm 130 Directional Drilling Rig," commented Benjamin Hoskins, President of Granite Energy. "We now have the ability to continue our workover process, offset drilling and shallow developmental drilling prospects without the constraint of limited rig availability slowing us down," continued Hoskins.

The ITC acquisition brought the Schramm T130XD RotaDrill rig, in addition to a duplex mud pump, a triplex mud pump, multiple semi tractor-trailer combinations including water trucks, fuel trucks, frac tanks, generators, doghouses (drillsite management trailers), light sets, and catwalks. Detailed information about the Schramm Rig can be found at: http://161.58.76.131/Rotadrills/PDFLiterature/T130XD8_05.pdf

Jason Griffith, Granite Energy's Chief Financial Officer added, "The highest priority was to complete the acquisition through the use of stock and cash, without incurring any debt. We have taken great pains to ensure that the company remains debt-free as we continue to acquire proven reserves and low to medium risk drilling prospects."

Granite Energy ("Granite") (NASDAQ OTC symbol: GNGI) is a leading independent energy company headquartered in Las Vegas, NV and focused on oil and gas development, exploration and production. With oil professionals in offices throughout North America, Granite executes on a proprietary business model that enhances the lifecycle for oil producing properties. Granite Energy has growing oil and gas holdings in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. The combination of Granite's methodologies, geological and technical expertise enables Granite to deliver the tangible economic benefits in the acquisition and development of oil and gas fields with both current production as well as exploration and development of new prospects.

For additional information about Granite Energy, Inc., go to www.graniteenergy.com

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Statements in this press release relating to plans, strategies, economic performance and trends, projections of results of specific activities or investments, and other statements that are not descriptions of historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking information is inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors, which include, but are not limited to, risk factors inherent in doing business. Forward-looking statements may be identified by terms such as "may," "will," "should," "could," "expects," "plans," "intends," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "forecasts," "potential," or "continue," or similar terms or the negative of these terms. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The company has no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Granite Energy, Inc.
S. Matthew Schultz, 801-244-4405

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:45 AM | Comments (0)

The Chimney Flashing Brake Co. LLC Launches a New Safety Railing for Contractors Working on Ladder Jack Scaffold Systems

Siders and painters now have a sturdy handrail to hold onto while walking the open span between ladders. The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is the only Ladder Jack Scaffold railing support ever made commercially available to the end user.

Battle Creek, MI (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- The Chimney Flashing Brake Co. LLC is proud to introduce a new safety railing for contractors who use a Ladder Jack Scaffold System called The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support.

"I was tired of waiting for someone to come up with a solution to the problem," says inventor Mr. Jody English, a local roofing and siding contractor in Battle Creek, Mich. "I have been involved in roofing and siding for 20 years. I know the shortcomings of both trades. I now design products that solve a common problem. They are all designed by a Certified Engineer. We have many new products coming to market in the next few years. This is where we start, by creating a safer environment for the siding and painting trades."

The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is the only Ladder Jack Scaffold railing support ever made commercially available to the end user. The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is OSHA compliant for a top rail support, and is utility patent pending.

The design of the Ladder Jack Scaffold System creates an open span between two ladders, as far as 22 feet. Siders and painters have had to walk an open span, on a 12 inch staging plank as high as 20 feet, with nothing to hold onto but air. The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is designed to support a triple 2-by-4 railing or a 24-foot 2-inch by 3-inch 14 gauge hollow steel tubing. Siders and painters now have a sturdy handrail to hold onto while walking the open span between the ladders.

The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is now available in many siding suppliers throughout the country, including: Norandex/Reynolds, Ted Lansing Building Products, Eikenhout Inc., Michigan Ladder, B&L Wholesale, Crown Supply, Lakeside Roofing & Siding, Spec Building Material, Emery-Waterhouse, Industrial Ladder and Supply Co., and U.S. Lumber, Cresecent Materials, and Horn Home Improvement. Chimney Flashing Brake Co. expects to add many more stores to this list as The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support becomes more popular with the building trades.

The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is now available, and contractors can purchase their barrier rail support through any of the stores listed above. The suggested retail price for The Siders and Painters Barrier Rail Support is $75. At this time, Chimney Flashing Brake Co. sales representatives cover approximately 26 states, and the company looks to add more sales representatives in time.

For more information, call Mr. Jody English at 269-963-2335.

Contact: Jody English
Office: 269-963-2335
Cell: 269-317-6123
www.chimneyflashingbrake.com

Chimney Flashing Brake Co. LLC
138 Rook Street Battle Creek, MI 49014
Phone - 269-963-2335
Fax - 269-565-0981

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:44 AM | Comments (0)

Contingent Workforce Strategies Summit to be Held October 25-26, 2006 in Dallas, Texas

Staffing Industry Analysts, the world’s premier contingent workforce analyst firm, will present the 2nd Annual Contingent Workforce Strategies Summit October 25-26 in Dallas, Texas. The CWS Summit is the only conference for major buyers of staffing/MSP/VMS services. The CWS Summit will address a wide range of topics relating to the contingent workforce, including how to get more value from the staffing budget, how to improve planning and forecasting for staffing requirements, how to maximize relationships with suppliers and how to select the right staffing solution. The event will feature a keynote address by Daniel Pink, author of the best-selling book, Free Agent Nation.

Los Altos, CA (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- Staffing Industry Analysts, Inc., the world’s premier contingent workforce analyst firm, announced today that the Second Annual Contingent Workforce Strategies Summit (http://www.cwsconference.com) will be held October 25-26, 2006 at the Adam’s Mark Hotel in Dallas, Texas. The CWS Summit is the only conference for major buyers of staffing/MSP/VMS services.

The Contingent Workforce Strategies Summit will feature a comprehensive conference program that will address a wide range of topics relating to the contingent workforce, including how to get more value from the staffing budget, how to improve planning and forecasting for staffing requirements, how to maximize relationships with suppliers and how to select the right staffing solution.

The event will feature a keynote address by Daniel Pink, author of the best-selling book, Free Agent Nation. Pink will offer an unprecedented look at the people who can make or break an organization with his presentation, "Inside the Hearts and Minds of the Free Agent."

Additionally, the conference will feature case studies from the world’s leading companies, including Adobe and Sun Microsystems, and panel discussions, general sessions and breakout sessions where attendees will learn best practices and successful strategies relating to selecting and implementing a VMS, independent contractor compliance issues, metrics and benchmarking, risk management, diversity, opportunities for spend, negotiating with staffing suppliers and how to successfully integrate a temporary workforce into an existing organization. The summit will also provide attendees with a wealth of valuable opportunities to network with peers and solution providers.

The CWS Summit is sponsored by ASAP Staffing, Beeline, Chimes, Hotgigs, Icon Professional Services, Manpower, PrO Unlimited, WorkforceLogic, Adecco, Allegis Group Services, Bartech Workforce Management, COMSYS, eWork Inc., Fieldglass Inc., IQNavigator, JobDiva, Kelly Vendor Management Solutions, Peopleclick, ProcureStaff, Randstad, Select Personnel, Staff Management, TAC Worldwide and ZeroChaos.

For more information or to register for the CWS Summit, visit http://www.cwsconference.com or call (800) 820-4252.

About Staffing Industry Analysts, Inc.

Staffing Industry Analysts, Inc. is the world’s premier contingent workforce analyst firm. For more than 15 years, the company has been delivering independent and objective data and analysis on contingent labor. In addition to publishing Contingent Workforce Strategies magazine, the company analyzes and reports on trends and developments related to contingent workforce issues via subscription research, individual market research reports, seminars and conferences. For more information, visit http://www.staffingindustry.com.

Media Contact:
Beth Mischke, Marketing Manager
650-232-2377

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:42 AM | Comments (0)

Natural Area Rugs Discusses the Growing Market for Natural Fiber Rugs

Leading supplier of natural fiber rugs examines the growing trend of natural fiber floor coverings.

Beverly Hills, CA (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- Like most industries in the United States, the rug business has not been spared from the effects of inflation, erratic petroleum prices and increasing dependence on Chinese importation. Amidst all these challenges, however, suppliers of flooring materials have remained resilient. Recent market trends indicate that area rugs, including sisal and seagrass rugs, remain a product category with high market share potential.

Rug manufacturers support this observation, claiming that nearly every household in America owns at least one area rug. They have observed that even homeowners who opt to install hardwood or tile will all eventually purchase area rugs for their floors. The growing popularity of hard surface flooring seems to move hand in hand with the increasing need for alternative floor coverings like natural fiber area rugs and runners.

“Despite investing in flooring like hardwood, ceramic and stone, consumers tend to realize the need for area rugs that help protect or accentuate the beauty of their floors,” Natural Area Rugs President Moe Kermani said. “Sisal and seagrass have lately become a favorite because of their versatility, as they can be matched with just about any type of furniture setting.”

The growing demand for natural fiber rugs has been quite noticeable. The innate beauty of materials such as sisal and seagrass has proven to be very appealing to customers in recent years. Contracting the services of a designer or a consultant at a retail specialty store, consumers choose just the right sizes, colors, styles and binding to coordinate with their specific decors. Materials used in furniture, curtains or drapes can even be used as binding for area rugs.

“Natural Area Rugs offers a wide array of natural fiber rugs ranging from sisal, seagrass and mountaingrass, to wool, bamboo and jute and caters to just about every sector of the market,” Kermani said. “We distinguish ourselves from competitors with our quality craftsmanship and by providing products tailored specifically to the needs of our clients.”

Natural Area Rugs offers transitional and traditional designs of sisal, seagrass, wool-sisal blends, bamboo and jute. A 5x8 sisal rug can sell for as low as $97. Market players indicate that retail businesses in the rug industry, especially those in natural fiber floor coverings, can remain strong if dealers commit to the category.

The natural colors and designs help Natural Area Rugs stand out from other retailers. Its Internet marketing efforts have been reinforced by other campaigns such as product sampling and advertisements. Since the natural fiber sector is relatively young in the industry, customer education is greatly prioritized.

“Over the last quarter alone, Natural Area Rugs has diversified its product line by offering indoor/outdoor bamboo area rugs and self-edge finish sisal rugs,” Kermani said. “With the recent surge in sales our company has experienced, we expect to go beyond the objectives we set last year.”

About Natural Area Rugs
Natural Area Rugs (www.naturalarearugs.com) is the leading supplier of affordable natural fiber area rugs and carpets in the United States. It is the number one choice of interior decorators and homemakers. Natural Area Rugs offer the ideal solution for those seeking to remodel or update the look or feel of any room in their home or office. Its rugs come in a complete range of shapes including oval rugs, round rugs, rectangular rugs, square rugs and rug runners. It offers a wide variety of sisal rugs, seagrass rugs, bamboo rugs, jute rugs, wool carpets and rug pads. Custom sizes are also available on all natural fiber carpets. Natural Area Rugs is a regular supplier of sisal and seagrass rugs for tradeshows and prestigious retail stores. It always offers free shipping, free samples and custom binding. Natural Area Rugs—where the finest quality of rugs is guaranteed.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:41 AM | Comments (0)

Ingenuus Software Announces Strategic Partnership With Executive Smarts LLC

Exciting new partnership will uniquely combine consulting with technology to provide rapid process improvement benefits to small and mid-size organizations.

Frisco, Texas (PRWEB) August, 14, 2006 - Ingenuus Software Inc., the leading supplier of Enterprise Process Orchestration (EPO) software, announced today, that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Executive Smarts, LLC of Dallas, Texas to deliver process improvement and automation services to small and midsized companies.

Under the terms of the partnership, Executive Smarts will offer process assessment, process documentation, process mapping, and process improvement consulting services. Ingenuus will provide the automation technology to allow these businesses to validate the process steps and tasks, gather metrics on performance, and analyze the data for improvement.

“When a company wants to address organizational excellence they look at their processes first,” says Jim Stewart, Executive Smarts CEO. Consultants from Executive Smarts work with executives and operations personnel to document and map critical processes that have never been documented or are in need of improvement. “In many cases,” explains Stewart, “the process has never been correctly documented. Just documenting and mapping the process is an incredibly useful exercise for everyone involved.”

Once a process is documented and mapped, companies often stop there. It is difficult to implement formal changes, and without formal changes with the appropriate data gathering to insure that the process is being followed, companies cannot realize the full benefit of the process documentation exercise. It takes time and effort on the part of the people using the process to collect the data for analysis. Without process automation, the task can be daunting. In the end, though, you cannot improve what you do not measure.

“Working with Executive Smarts, we have jointly developed a way to document and map a process, and deploy it over the web so that a company can use it immediately,” says Chris Williams, Ingenuus CEO. “The system automatically collects the data and metrics needed for review while the process is being used, and provides the discipline required to follow the documented process.” Companies that take advantage of this unique combination of consulting and technology will be able to complete an organizational excellence program faster and easier, while realizing more benefit sooner.

About Ingenuus
Ingenuus Software Inc., based in Frisco, Texas, is a leading supplier of Enterprise Process Orchestration (EPO) solutions for high tech and SMB manufacturers. Enterprise Orchestration revolutionizes process automation by making it easier to automate business processes, tasks, and steps, and transform them into easy to use web based applications.

Customers are using Ingenuus to orchestrate processes including Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), IT Trouble Tickets, Return Materials Authorizations (RMA), Quality Testing, New Product Introduction (NPI), Job Management for contract manufacturers and Compliance Management (like Sarbanes-Oxley). www.ingenuus.com

Ingenuus is a trademark of Ingenuus Software, Inc.
Executive Smarts is a trademark of Executive Smarts, LLC.

About Executive Smarts
Executive Smarts, LLC is a Dallas-based professional services organization serving a broad range of critical assignments and management duties for client companies lacking the internal resources or experience for their specific business requirements. These services include management development and training, customized competitive excellence tools, participating on advisory boards and boards of directors, and filling interim management positions.
www.executivesmarts.com

For more information on Ingenuus, contact:

Scott Cleveland
972 377-4842

For more information on Executive Smarts, contact:
Jim Stewart
972-733-0704

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:40 AM | Comments (0)

Bottled Water Gets “Wake Up” Call

This article has been removed per request of Delia Associates

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:39 AM | Comments (0)

Most Companies are Missing Many Opportunities to Benefit from Effective Pricing

Companies are missing many opportunities to benefit from more effective pricing according to Prof. Colin Coulson-Thomas author of ‘Pricing for Profit’. Pricing leaders use straightforward and transparent approaches. They differentiate, segment and deliver more value. They bespoke, offer additional services and become sought after business partners.

Water Newton, Cambridgeshire (PRWEB) August 15, 2006 -- Most companies could benefit from more effective pricing, according to Prof. Colin Coulson-Thomas. The latest stage of a continuing investigation reveals that almost all of 60 companies recently visited are missing opportunities to use pricing to improve profitability and build more rewarding relationships with customers.

Coulson-Thomas examines why it is that some companies are able to charge more than their competitors for essentially the same product and command premium prices for their offerings. He explains: “Pricing decisions impact directly upon sales revenues and profitability. Charge too much and orders are lost, while charging too little erodes margins and may give the impression that offerings are of low quality.”

The University of Lincoln Professor feels pricing deserves greater attention “Obtaining and sustaining higher prices ought to be a top priority of entrepreneurs. Yet often they agonize over perfecting what is sold and then take quick pricing decisions based largely on guesswork.”

So how should businesses set prices? Coulson-Thomas has some answers. He has persuaded 73 companies to reveal their pricing strategies, tactics and practices. The firms surveyed provided data on 127 factors that could affect pricing decisions. The findings set out in his report ‘Pricing for Profit’* suggest more effective pricing could boost the profitability of many companies.

Comparing the companies that are most successful at using pricing to achieve business objectives such as growing market share or improving profitability (the leaders) with the least successful (the laggards) revealed stark differences between the two groups. For example, leaders make more use of all nine tools and techniques examined.

Coulson-Thomas finds: “Leaders understand the strategic importance of pricing and are more attuned to factors such as perceived value that affect price sensitivity. They involve a wider range of departments in pricing decisions and members of the sales team play a more significant role. The most successful companies also rely upon evidence rather than hunch.”

The Professor warns “Marketing and sales should contribute to pricing as they ought to be close to customers. But left to themselves they may be tempted to ‘buy’ orders. Offering discounts may be regarded as a softer option than differentiating, tailoring and delivering extra value to justify a higher price. However, excessive discounting can reduce profitability.”

Coulson-Thomas finds that: “Leaders attempt to sell on value as opposed to price. They are more likely to segment a market-place and take a long-term view, for example using ‘penetration pricing’ to enter a new market. When laggards look ahead it is often for defensive reasons, for example cutting price to hold onto market share.”

The cost drivers of leaders and laggards are very different. According to Coulson-Thomas, “Leaders are five times more likely to increase volume to achieve economies of scale. They are also more realistic when allocating costs and more likely to understand the direct and indirect costs attributable to a particular product or service.”

Overall, according to Coulson-Thomas: “Leaders adopt a very different approach to building their businesses. They focus on each market segment, differentiate their offerings, and look for ways of increasing quality and delivering improved customer service. Investing in these areas allows them to build sales volume, reduce unit costs and become more competitive.”

The Professor points out that: “Leaders keep their pricing structures simple and transparent. Increasing an offering’s economic value and the extent to which it is unique or special enables them to price for value. Differentiated, tailored and exclusive offerings attract a premium. Leaders strive to add value to their core offering, develop a reputation for service and use pricing to build closer relationships with key customers.”

Coulson-Thomas concludes: “Overall, leaders put greater effort into pricing. They use a wider range of sources of price information. They keep their finger on the pulse of customer, user and industry opinion, and review their approaches, strategies and tactics as situations and circumstances change.”

* ‘Pricing for Profit... the Critical Success Factors’ by Colin Coulson-Thomas can be obtained from Policy Publications. To order the report: Tel: +44 (0) 1733 361 149; Fax: +44 (0) 1733 361 459; or visit www.ntwkfirm.com/bookshop

Prof. Colin Coulson-Thomas, an active consultant and an experienced chairman of award winning companies is author of ‘Pricing for Profit’, a report on the critical success factors for effective pricing. He has reviewed the processes and practices for winning business of over 100 companies, helped over 100 boards to improve board and/or corporate performance, and spoken at over 200 national, international and corporate conferences in approaching 30 countries. He can be contacted by Tel: +44 (0) 1733 361 149; Fax: +44 (0) 1733 361 459; or via www.coulson-thomas.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:38 AM | Comments (0)

Invensys Implementing InFusion-based SCADA System for CHS Inc. Liquid Pipelines

CHS Inc. has selected Invensys (www.invensys.com) to implement an InFusion-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system for Front Range Pipeline, LLC and Cenex Pipeline, LLC. These pipelines provide transportation of crude oil to the CHS refinery in Laurel, Montana, and transportation of refined products to markets east, including eastern Montana and North Dakota.

Foxboro, MA (PRWEB) August 14, 2006 -- CHS Inc. has selected Invensys (www.invensys.com) to implement an InFusion-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system for Front Range Pipeline, LLC and Cenex Pipeline, LLC. These pipelines provide transportation of crude oil to the CHS refinery in Laurel, Montana, and transportation of refined products to markets east, including eastern Montana and North Dakota.

The new system will integrate existing third-party programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and monitor and control the data from fifteen pumping stations along the two pipelines. Communications will be via a Wide Area Network (WAN) utilizing fiber optic, VSAT, and dial up links with the different pumping stations.

InFusion View will provide the graphical human machine interface (HMI) for operator visualization in the Main Control Center located in Laurel, Montana as well as at each of the fifteen pumping stations.

InFusion Access and Historian will collect and monitor real-time pipeline data from a wide range of device types at the fifteen pumping stations and provide an interface to a centralized third-party historian package for long term data storage.

The Invensys Liquid Pipeline SCADA System replaces two existing SCADA systems, including a legacy Invensys system. The new Infusion-based system will provide CHS, Inc. with a more flexible, easier-to-deploy, standards-based data acquisition and business decision support platform that will be able to adapt to future changes in asset configuration and the dynamic pipeline market.

About CHS Inc.
CHS Inc. (www.chsinc.com ) is a diversified energy, grains and foods company committed to providing the essential resources that enrich lives. A Fortune 500 company, CHS is owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Northwest and from the Canadian border to Texas, along with thousands of preferred stockholders. CHS provides products and services ranging from grain marketing to food processing to meet the needs of customers around the world. It also operates petroleum refineries/pipelines and, through a broad range of working partnerships, markets and distributes Cenex® brand energy products and renewable fuels, along with agronomic inputs and livestock feed to rural America. CHS is listed on the NASDAQ at CHSCP.

About the InFusion Enterprise Control System
The new InFusion enterprise control system combines industry-leading capabilities from across Invensys with advanced enterprise information and integration technologies from both Microsoft and SAP to dramatically reduce integration costs. With InFusion technology, most existing plant floor and enterprise systems can now be cost-effectively integrated into a common system. In conjunction with a suite of new performance services, Invensys’ InFusion system will help industrial enterprises more effectively align plant operations and maintenance departments with the business to optimize overall asset performance management.

For more information on the InFusion enterprise control system, or to arrange a personal demonstration, readers should contact their local Invensys representatives, call 1-866-746-6477 (+1 508-549-2424 outside the US and Canada), or visit www.InFusionECS.com.

About Invensys
Invensys is the world leader in industrial asset performance management. In addition to its rapidly expanding Global Solutions and Performance Management services groups, Invensys’ automation businesses includes industry-leading brands such as Foxboro, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware, and Avantis, whose products are installed in more than 100,000 plants across the world. These range from small hybrid and batch plants to the world’s largest upstream projects, refineries, gas plants, petrochemicals plants, power plants, and pulp and paper mills.

For more information on Invensys’ process automation businesses, please visit www.invensys.com/ps.

The Invensys Group (www.invensys.com) is headquartered in London and is listed on the London Stock Exchange, with approximately 30,000 employees working in 60 countries.

Invensys, InFusion, Foxboro, Triconex, SimSci-Esscor, Wonderware and Avantis are trademarks of Invensys plc, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. All other brands and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:37 AM | Comments (0)

Geometric Launches Thickness Analysis Tool GeomCaliper™ on Pro/ENGINEER® Wildfire

Geometric Software Solutions (Geometric), a leader in product lifecycle management (PLM) services and technologies, today announced the launch of GeomCaliper for Pro/Engineer Wildfire.

Mumbai, India (PRWEB) August 14, 2006 -- Geometric Software Solutions (Geometric), a leader in product lifecycle management (PLM) services and technologies, today announced the launch of GeomCaliper for Pro/Engineer Wildfire.

GeomCaliper is an innovative tool for measuring and checking the wall thickness of Pro/Engineer Wildfire 3D models. It is easy to use and can be accessed within a Wildfire session, providing immediate feedback to designers during the design process itself. Among other applications, it will help engineers to quickly detect thin areas in plastic molded components that may result into warps, or thick sections in castings that may result in hot spots. Minimal training is required to use the tool and interpret the generated results.

GeomCaliper provides users with:

* Quick and accurate thickness calculation
* Easy to locate and analyze critical thickness areas
* Advanced visualization for easy interpretation of results
* Ability to clip model at any section
* Dynamic thickness display at point click
* Compute thickness at selected region
* Customizable reports in XML /HTML format

GeomCaliper is based on PTC’s Pro/Toolkit and leverages the mature API provided by PTC to 3rd party developers. Wildfire customers will benefit from it’s 3D oriented productivity features such as advanced thickness map display and manipulation.

GeomCaliper for Pro/Engineer Wildfire supports Wildfire 1,2 and 3. Geometric showcased the product at the annual PTC/User conference held on June 4th -7th, 2006 in Dallas Texas. Detailed product information and limited period trial version of GeomCaliper for Pro/Engineer Wildfire is available at Geometric’s website http://geomcaliper.geometricsoftware.com/
GeomCaliper was launched on CATIA® V5 in March 2005. The tool has proved highly effective for design checks and optimization in powertrain.

About Geometric Software Solutions
Geometric is a CMMI Level 5 Company providing the most cost-effective end-to-end PLM solutions to the global mechanical design, manufacturing, and industrial markets. Geometric offers wide range of services -- Engineering services, PLM software development, Application Management, PLM integration/implementation services across leading PLM platforms; SolidWorks™, CATIA™, ENOVIA™, DELMIA™, eMatrix™, Teamcenter Enterprise (Metaphase)™, Windchill™, UG 17,18 & NX® etc. Our service offerings are complemented by a robust portfolio of Products & Technologies licensed to customers through a strong network of resellers. Long-standing relationships with market leaders, in-depth domain expertise, innovative products and a cost-effective global delivery model makes Geometric the preferred partner for PLM.

Geometric employs over 1600 software professionals and has business development headquarters in Merrimack, NH, USA and sales offices in Germany, France, Singapore and Japan The company is traded on both the Bombay (BSE) and the National (NSE) stock exchanges in India. The company's website is http://www.geometricsoftware.com/

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:36 AM | Comments (0)

Can GM, Ford, Chrysler & UAW Win Back America and Cure the Motor City Blues?

To help restore American manufacturing to # 1, the Society for American Industry proposes strategic alliances between manufacturers, unions, small business, trade groups, etc. The goals are more jobs, higher productivity and increased sales of U.S. goods. Our strategy is to design and promote high impact Magnet Projects to target big problems in major industries. Project # 1: U.S. WheelHouse - build houses in closed auto factories.

Oak Brook, IL (PRWEB) August 13, 2006 -- The Society for American Industry (www.SocietyforAmericanIndustry.org) announces its first initiative to help resolve critical issues facing the U.S. economy. Attacking public problems with innovative private business ventures offers the best chance for successful solutions, according to founder James D. Kirk, Jr. “We think Magnet Projects can inspire and mobilize what it takes to fix endemic problems like our balance of trade deficit {www.societyforamericanindustry.org/deficits.html), the oil/energy crisis (www.societyforamericanindustry.org/crisis.html), the plight of the U.S. auto industry, a lack of decent affordable housing and urban poverty.

“The best way to improve the U.S. economy is to work together and stimulate the powers of creativity and innovation that define much of American history. We must form strategic alliances between unions, manufacturers, workers, small businesses and consumers to make America competitive in today’s world. We need to think “outside the box” and keep our feet planted on the ground at the same time.”

This announcement starts with a big question: "Can General Motors, Ford, Chrysler and the UAW win back America?"

The Big Three are losing sales, market share and money. They are shutting down plants. GM has used worker buyouts to reduce costs. U.S. auto and truck makers are once again reduced to relying on that old self-destructive standby; ‘Buyer Incentives” (a.k.a. “kickbacks”.)

The United Auto Workers (UAW) suffers shrinking membership and declining dues. Thousands of UAW members face unemployment. Many Big Three factory towns face plant closings and hardship.

Foreign made auto parts become foreign brand cars and trucks in stateside plants. The U.S. balance of trade deficit grows.

The Big Three spend money on non-productive items like buyouts, “incentives” and plant closings. They suffer negative relations in their factory towns.

The UAW spends money on organizing drives to make up for lost auto and truck plant membership. They incur costs helping their downsized workers.

Demand for decent affordable housing keeps expanding. The supply in the U.S. and abroad is not keeping up.

A new All-American Industry can arise from these problems: U.S. WheelHouse™. The basic idea is to assemble building materials into components and house kits in closed auto and truck factories. In-plant construction (“automated building”) insures maximum quality, minimum waste and ultimate cost efficiency.

Former auto workers and other community people will operate the line. The UAW chartered production union will work with building trades unions. Our union partners will promote mortgage funding for our factory-fabricated houses in the union pension fund community. This will help pull sales through.

Building trades journeymen will be in-plant instructors. Workers can enter building trade apprenticeships and work up to higher pay on setup crews that install house packages.

Workers will be well paid, but not at UAW journeyman level. We plan on worker profit sharing, stock ownership and other performance rewards.

Modern technology and in-plant efficiencies allow quality building components at very competitive prices. They will be sold to housing and light construction markets in the U.S. and abroad. The U.S. WheelHouse house/vehicle package will create new markets for the Big Three marketing partners. The consumer can buy a car or truck while buying a home and finance them together.

No-cost government help in two areas will insure success for this business. Factory built components should be approved under the national pre-emptive H.U.D. building code. Also, U.S. trade officials should persuade other nations to reduce their trade surpluses by importing house and house/vehicle packages. Make trade a two-way street.

The inevitable industrialization of the housing business has been just around the corner for the greater part of a century. Nobody has ever disputed the cliché: “You wouldn’t build your car from a few pallets of parts on your driveway.” The time for this idea has come.

The Society for American Industry offers the U.S. WheelHouse™ concept as a Magnet Project to spearhead our Industrial Comeback. The Society augments the vital work of Manufacturers’ Associations and other trade groups. Day to day the Society provides specific programs to improve productivity and increase sales. Members will want to take advantage of the listings for machinery, sites, bid requests, jobs, licensing, joint ventures, etc. Charter Members will enjoy special benefits.

Parent of the Society for American Industry is SAI WorldWide, LLC (www.SAI-International.com), formerly Sales Analysis Institute (SAI™). SAI™ has trained over 500,000 management and sales people from chairman to foreman since 1932. Over 125 Fortune 500 companies and many small businesses (www.sai-international.com/35202.html) have used timeless SAI™ Methods to solve tough problems, replace conflict with cooperation and increase productivity, profitability and sales (www.sai-international.com/22401.html).

To help American manufacturing thrive, interested parties should join the Society for American Industry (www.SocietyforAmericanIndustry.org). Our highest purpose is to devise a few Magnet Projects to mobilize and revitalize American Manufacturing. Our second goal is to increase our sense of the American community and promote the new Buying American ethic. These things must be done for national salvation.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:35 AM | Comments (0)

ODIN technologies EasyTag™ Scientific Tag Testing Software Goes Global

EasyTag™ enables end users testing in European and Japanese frequencies.

Dulles, VA (PRWEB) August 14, 2006 -- ODIN technologies (http://www.ODINtechnologies.com/), the leader in the physics of RFID deployments, testing, and optimization software announces today the release of EasyTag™ for international markets. EasyTag™ is the only tag testing product capable of working in every UHF frequency range worldwide. With EasyTag™ end users and labs can scientifically measure the performance of different tags and locations on products in different geographies. This allows readers to pick the right tag and right location for their needs, ensuring 100% read rate possibility.

“Until now, European, Japanese and other overseas markets have been unable to conduct scientific testing of tagged product, EasyTag™ allows people for the first time to be able to test for their local frequency requirements from 860 – 960 MHz,” commented ODIN technologies VP of Client Architecture Kevin MacDonald, “EasyTag™ is the only product on the market that can test for the critical metrics of Power Effectiveness and Orientation Sensitivity of tags applied to product.”

EasyTag™ for international frequencies will allow overseas markets to tag products in a way that will make it possible to achieve 100% read rates in real world applications. The current trial and error methods being used can be replaced with verifiable accuracy into where a tag should be placed and which tag should be used.

About EasyTag™ software
Mr. MacDonald commented, “Our development teams have been working on tag testing software for over three years. With Trifecta™ initially and now EasyTag™, end users can have the same testing rigor that would come with hiring a Ph.D. in physics, in a tool that is easy to use for even novice users.”

EasyTag™ is available online at ODIN technologies Store (http://www.ODINtechnologies.com/store/)

About ODIN technologies

ODIN technologies is the leader in the physics of RFID solution design, deployment, and installation optimization software. RFID is all we do. Global corporations on four continents leverage ODIN technologies’ expert engineers and patent-pending RFID optimization tools to achieve accuracy, visibility and speed in RFID deployments. In addition to client deployment services, ODIN technologies is also the publisher of the RFID Benchmark Series, the industry's first and most referenced head to head performance analysis of leading RFID tags and readers. ODIN's President and CEO, Patrick J. Sweeney II, is also author of RFID for Dummies published by John Wiley & Sons. ODIN serves clients from offices in Virginia USA, Tokyo Japan and Budapest Hungary. http://www.ODINtechnologies.com/

Contact:
Michelle Reilly
e-mail protected from spam bots
ODIN technologies, Trusted RFID Experts

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:34 AM | Comments (0)

Microtest Announces Agreement to Operate Symmetry Medical Inc.’s PolyVac Sterilization Validation Laboratory

Microtest (www.microtestlabs.com) has been selected to operate Symmetry Medical Inc.’s PolyVac facility new state-of-the-art Sterilization Validation Laboratory in Manchester, NH, Microtest President Steven Richter announced today.

AGAWAM, MASS. (PRWEB) August 14, 2006 -- Microtest (www.microtestlabs.com) has been selected to operate Symmetry Medical Inc.’s PolyVac facility new state-of-the-art Sterilization Validation Laboratory in Manchester, NH, Microtest President Steven Richter announced today.

Microtest will operate the facility and provide independent third party sterilization validation testing services for Symmetry Medical Inc. customers. Microtest is an ISO9001:2000 certified, FDA registered provider of microbiology and in-vitro toxicology laboratory services for the medical device industry.

Symmetry Medical Inc. became the first surgical instruments case manufacturer in the U.S. to offer complete services from manufacturing through validation.

Moreover, Symmetry Medical Inc.’s bold move is especially timely, according Richter.

“Many industry experts expect imminent action by the FDA guiding how, or even requiring, medical device manufacturers validate their sterilization recommendations,” Richter said.

“Symmetry Medical Inc.’s ability to consolidate the added step – perhaps soon to be requirement – of third-party validation into the case design and manufacturing process provides a significant time-to-market advantage to medical device manufacturers,” he added.

Richter said Microtest’s ability to provide the new laboratory service offering is based on the company’s industry-leading, 15 years of experience in providing sterilization validation testing and related services for its own clients.

The Symmetry Medical Inc. Manchester Design & Development Center (DDC) Validation Laboratory is open and in full operation.

For more information about Microtest’s sterilization validation testing and related services, contact Jim McLaughlin at 1-800-631-1680 or email e-mail protected from spam bots.

About Microtest
Microtest is a leader in testing services and contract manufacturing for the medical device, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Based in Agawam, Massachusetts, USA, the company's expertise and flexible processes enhance product safety and security, accelerate time to market, and minimize supply chain disruption. For more information, visit www.microtestlabs.com, or call 1-413-786-1680 or toll-free 1-800-631-1680.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:33 AM | Comments (0)

Geometric Software Solutions, Ltd. Adds New Functionality with NestLib Library, Version 18.5

Geometric Software Solutions (NSE: GEOMETRIC), a leader in product lifecycle management (PLM) services and technologies, announces the release of NestLib Library version 18.5. NestLib is one of the most successful technologies available in the market known for it’s robustness, and can be easily customizable to suit your industrial requirements. NestLib focuses on saving costs by optimizing material utilization while fitting two-dimensional shapes on sheets for metal cutting machines.

Mumbai, India (PRWEB) August 14, 2006 -- Geometric Software Solutions (NSE: GEOMETRIC), a leader in product lifecycle management (PLM) services and technologies, announces the release of NestLib Library version 18.5. NestLib is one of the most successful technologies available in the market known for it’s robustness, and can be easily customizable to suit your industrial requirements. NestLib focuses on saving costs by optimizing material utilization while fitting two-dimensional shapes on sheets for metal cutting machines.

NestLib is effectively used by machine / machine tool manufacturers, companies providing CAD/CAM solutions, Leather Industry, Wood working / wood engraving industry, construction industry, Agricultural Equipment manufacturers, Engraving / Sign Making industry, Shipping Industry, Glass Industry, Plastic Industry, Printing Industry, Packaging Industry, to name a few.

NestLib v18.5 adds the following significant enhancements to its modules:

· Introduction of new algorithms for improved utilization in Grid fit

· Enhanced common punch module with clearance support

· Several limitations in the existing functionalities are removed.

NestLib has been recognized as one of the fastest and most efficient nesting libraries. More than 70 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have licensed NestLib and thousands of end users benefit from using applications developed using Nestlib. NestLib provides optimized, high speed and robust algorithms for fully automated True Shape nesting.

The NestLib portfolio consists of a base module and a set of optional advanced modules, each of which provides specialized