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May 28, 2005
StarVision Technologies Secures Exclusive License to Star Identification Software
StarVision signs exclusive licensing agreement with Texas A&M University for star identification software.
College Station, TX (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) May 26, 2005 -- StarVision Technologies has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Texas A&M University for star identification software that enables satellites to autonomously determine their orientation with only the stars as their guide. The same software will allow those of us on earth to identify stars in the night sky with the simple click of a high tech pointing device; no star maps or telescopes required.
"This is a huge step for StarVision," explains StarVision Technologies President Michael Jacox. "Even as we worked to secure the license from A&M, StarVision was investing in development of autonomous navigation and star identification products. It feels great knowing that we've secured the exclusive rights to put this software to work and we intend to do so right away."
Already, StarVision has two products developed that employ the algorithms and ingenuity of the three pieces of star identification software. StarVision's advanced Star Tracker concepts will support more responsive deployment of spacecraft, and allow for more autonomous on-board calibration and adjustment to the space environment.
Dr. John Junkins, Distinguished Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M University and a member of the National Academy of Engineering, led the development the concepts behind the star identification software.
"This software is the result of collaboration between me and my colleague, Dr. Daniele Mortari. Dr. Mortari's contributions were instrumental. Along with our students, we have developed and tested a suite of software that rapidly identifies stars in the 'lost in space mode,' without any prior navigation information," Junkins explains. "The software operates on images from a star camera and within a fraction of a second identifies star patterns reliably, and automatically re-calibrates the camera if any changes occur due to long term exposure in the harsh space environment. This algorithm represents a significant breakthrough, because sorting through the tens of millions of possibilities makes brute force methods unattractive."
The same suite of software can be used for commercial applications on Earth to accurately identify stars even within our atmosphere. StarTagger, StarVision's handheld star identifier, let's anyone who can point at a star in the night sky identify constellations and find out just what star they're looking at. This invention makes it possible for anyone to immediately become a proficient amateur astronomer; the entire sky feels like a graphical user interface to access astronomy and space science information. The software that makes it all possible was developed by Dr. Junkins and Daniele Mortari, associate professor of engineering at Texas A&M.
StarVision Technologies is a high-tech spin-off from technologies developed at Texas A&M University. Housed in Texas A&M's Research Park, StarVision Technologies is engineering innovative new intelligent vision technologies that are extending the reach of our soldiers and improving commercial inspection. StarVision products support a broad range of applications, including defense unmanned systems, space systems, robotics, and consumer products.
Media Contact:
Joan Tatge
979-324-2247
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:14 AM | Comments (0)
May 24, 2005
Protonex Names Phil Robinson VP of Engineering and Manufacturing
Protonex Technology Corporation, a leading manufacturer of high performance fuel cell power solutions, announced that it has named Phil Robinson to the position of Vice President, Engineering and Manufacturing. In this role, Mr. Robinson will be responsible for managing the product development and manufacturing of the company’s complete line of power solutions.
Southborough, MA (PRWEB) May 24, 2005 -- Protonex Technology Corporation, a leading manufacturer of high performance fuel cell power solutions, announced that it has named Phil Robinson to the position of Vice President, Engineering and Manufacturing. In this role, Mr. Robinson will be responsible for managing the product development and manufacturing of the company’s complete line of power solutions.
The hiring of Mr. Robinson results from the success Protonex has achieved accelerating the commercialization of its patented fuel cell technology into specific applications. “I am delighted to add Phil to our management team,” said Scott Pearson, President and CEO of Protonex. “His proven ability to build and lead world-class technical organizations will play a critical role in our company’s growth and product development strategy.”
“Protonex’s innovative approach to fuel cell design and fabrication is poised to revolutionize portable power systems for both military and commercial applications,” added Mr. Robinson. “I am thrilled to help Protonex’s team deliver industry leading products and technologies to the market place.”
Mr. Robinson has over 20 years of start-up, technology and senior management experience with a particular emphasis on product and strategy development. Prior to joining Protonex, Mr. Robinson served as Vice President, Engineering at Amperion Inc. He has also served as Vice President of Engineering for LAN Access and NetVantage, and has held several senior management positions for 3Com including CTO of its Consumer Products Division as well as CTO and R&D Director of its Cable Access Business Unit.
Mr. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He has been awarded eight patents by the USPTO.
About Protonex Technology Corporation
Protonex is a privately held, venture-backed company based in Southborough, MA. The company manufactures high performance, long duration fuel cell systems for portable and remote applications. Protonex provides complete power solutions in the 10 to 500 Watt power range to OEM customers for off-grid applications underserved by existing battery, generator, solar and other power technologies. The company's innovative fuel cell products also complement existing power technologies and are utilized in hybrid designs for customer applications.
For more information about Protonex, please contact:
Protonex Technology Corporation
153 Northboro Road
Southborough, MA 01772-1034
Phone: (508) 490-9960
Email: e-mail protected from spam bots
www.protonex.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:38 AM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2005
SMC Introduces Energy-Saving Pneumatic Products
SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products supports innovations in energy-saving production systems.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products supports innovations in energy-saving production systems.
Because the main air compressor is thought to comprise 20% of a plant’s entire electricity consumption, energy savings depend on controlling air flow. SMC offers a wide range of digital air flow sensors to aid in measuring and controlling air consumption to promote energy savings in pneumatic systems.
Series PF2A inline air flow sensors feature an integral or remote digital display that shows cumulative or real-time flow rates, and digital & analog outputs provide on/off and accumulated flow pulses for remote monitoring. Install PF2A sensors in the main and branch air lines from 1/8” to 2” in diameter to monitor flow rates and detect leakage. The flow rates range from 1 ~ 12,000 liters/minute (420cfm). Series PPA digital hand-held manometer is also available to measure workpiece collision pressure, and to calculate flow rates for continuous system optimization.
SMC Corporation manufactures high quality actuators and cylinders, airline and air preparation equipment, high-purity products, vacuum components, instrumentation, and a host of fittings and accessories applicable to the pneumatic automation industry. SMC has a total of 14 production facilities, 3 of which are in North America –Indiana, California, and Ontario, Canada. SMC’s global presence enables it to provide quality customer service in any part of the world.
For more information on SMC’s line of energy-saving products, request catalog E02-21, and catalog ES100-54 for complete digital flow switch information, or visit our website at www.smcusa.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:42 AM | Comments (0)
Motion Detection Webcam Games and Applications in a Flash
SY-Fi Ltd is proud to introduce a new interface called Plato2. This universal interface brings Plato, SY-Fi's most powerful development library, within the reach of every user or developer. The Plato2 can interact with every development environment that has TCP/IP connectivity. This includes web based development environments such as Java and Macromedia FLASH.
(PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SY-Fi Ltd is proud to introduce a new interface called Plato2. This universal interface brings Plato, their most powerful development library, within the reach of every user or developer and, the Plato2 allows creation of Macromedia FLASH and Java based games and applications with advanced motion detection capability.
Chelmsford, Essex, May 3rd 2005 – SY-Fi Limited, leading innovators in the design and development of motion detection systems today announced their latest creation, a universal interface known as the Plato2. It is a ground-breaking application that enables ultra rapid development of complex motion detection based products. Built around SYFi’s advanced engine, Plato, the Plato2 can interact with every development environment that has TCP/IP connectivity. This includes web based development environments such as Sun's Java and Macromedia FLASH.
The Plato2 is itself an application that runs in the background and shows SY-Fi’s blue hand logo in the system tray. It works by talking to ‘host’ games or applications and translating commands between the user and the host. Developers can now write advanced games and applications that harness SY-Fi’s motion detection technology in ultra quick time, with little or no knowledge of how Plato2 works.
The Plato2 comes in two editions; a simple ‘player’ and a ‘development’ version. Both are designed to work with Microsoft Windows XP.
The first version of the Plato2 Player is to be retailed at £25 excluding VAT and also comes with a 14 day free trial period and a year’s free upgrades.
The first version of Plato2 Developer is to be retailed at £250 excluding VAT and comes with a 14 day free trial period, and a year’s free upgrades. It also comes with all the documentation and necessary tools, this includes vital debug information and a special Macromedia FLASH SDK which allows ultra fast development.
SY-Fi has also opened a support forum to help and assist developers of the Plato2.
Earlier this year SY-Fi completed a five year focused development plan culminating in the release of a number of commercial packages to be made available in 2005. In support of this release, SY-Fi provides a number of services which will furnish developers and companies of all sizes with the assistance needed to develop tailor-made products to suit their marketplace. Using the comprehensive SY-Fi libraries as building blocks and having the support of a company with years of experience in motion detection technology SY-Fi clients will be able to create unique state of the art products.
SY-Fi can be contacted by visiting our website at www.SY-Fi.co.uk or telephoning our office on +44 1245 492 174.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:40 AM | Comments (0)
VideoRay Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Purchased by Monterey Bay Aquarium
Underwater Robot to assist in Aquatic Husbandry and Specimen Collection / Environmental Monitoring at Monterey Bay Aquarium
(PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- VideoRay announced that its VideoRay Pro III, has been delivered to Monterey Bay Aquarium, and has been hard at work! It has already been used for removing a 160 pound tuna from one of the exhibit tanks - with a giant green sea turtle that had attached itself to the fish.
After the VideoRay was delivered, VideoRay President Scott Bentley stopped by with Bill Martin, another VideoRay expert, to explain demonstrate usage and maintenance of the unit and some future directions, including the use of the unit with a scanning sonar, driven by a laptop computer, and internet operation. The VideoRay was flown in a huge exhibit tank that was closed for renovations, and a group of Monterey Bay Aquarium employees and volunteers took turns learning techniques for observing and collecting fish and other aquatic creatures.
The VideoRay ROV will allow the aquarium to react more rapidly when items need to be removed from exhibit tanks, without the delay and expense of mobilizing divers. It will also be used in the open waters outside the aquarium for observation and specimen retrieval, inspection work, and field investigation. Initial tests confirm that the VideoRay does not seem to bother or repel aquatic life, and its low cost and long "bottom time" makes it an ideal tool for scientific study.
Chris Gibson e-mail protected from spam bots
VideoRay LLC Director, Marketing
Phone: 610.458.3000
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:39 AM | Comments (0)
Digital Control Systems Launches the New Model 90 PID Controller
The newest PID controller from Digital Control Systems. An ideal control for OEM Equipment Manufacturers servicing the global marketplace. The Model works from 80 - 280 VAC without modification, and can accept multiple inputs, including RTD probes, and thermocouples.
(PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- Ideal for Equipment Manufacturers the Digital Control Systems, Inc. Model 90 PID Controller is the latest evolution in the Multistat series of temperature controls. Designed for the global equipment market, the Model 90 PID Controller can operate from direct or alternating current power mains from 80 to 280 volts, so it can be used anywhere in the world without modification or adjustment. “We developed the Model 90 in response to our customers who sell to the international market and who had to juggle the logistics involved with the various voltage requirements around the world -- in addition to flexible load and voltage requirements, the Model 90 is robust and reliable,” said Mike Mueller, President and founder of Digital Control Systems, Inc.
This single-channel PID controller will accurately control single electrical loads of up to 15 Amps. All of the Model 90 control electronics and the user interface are built on a compact (13.5 x 6 cm) circuit board for easy mounting and integration into medical, laboratory, and industrial equipment. Large bright LED digits make the display easy to read from across the room.
Recognizing the considerable safety benefits to be gained from reducing high voltage wiring, Digital Control Systems, Inc, designed the Model 90 to feature a second smaller power module that can be located near the output. This eliminates the need to run high current wiring to the front control panel. As an additional benefit, this power module is connected to the main circuit board with a low voltage cable. A second power module can also be added to control an auxiliary load.
The Model 90 offers more options than similar controls in the Multistat™ family of temperature controls. The extensive options available for the Model 90 make it easy for equipment manufacturers to differentiate similar products. Options such as an audible alarm, two pole alarm relay, RS-232, or a timer can be added individually based on application requirements. The optional RS-232 interface feature enables remote operation and data logging. “Rather than bundle all of the available features, we prefer to offer our customers options on a one by one basis, this way they aren’t paying for features they aren’t going to use”, adds Mike Mueller.
The Model 90 temperature controller works with a variety of inputs. For direct temperature control the Model 90 can be used with economical IC sensors (for operation below 100 °C), RTDs, or type ‘J’ and ‘K’ thermocouples. A direct voltage (5 volts Max) input configuration is also available for control of parameters measured by external sensors such as humidity or CO2.
Digital Control Systems Inc. is based in Portland, Oregon and has been designing and manufacturing a wide array of temperature controllers, motor speed controls, CO2 Sensors and Custom Products since 1984. The DCS family of products includes, the AirSense CO2 Monitor, Laboratory CO2 Sensor solutions, the Servomax DC Motor Speed Control, and the Multistat line of Temperature Control products. Technical information and brochures for the Model 90 and all of the Digital Control Systems products can be accessed online at www.dcs-inc.net.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:38 AM | Comments (0)
ASR/ASQ (Air Saving Valve)
SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products has announced the release of series ASR/ASQ air saving valve.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products has announced the release of series ASR/ASQ air saving valve.
With an increase of energy cost, customers’ interest in energy saving is growing. SMC developed the new air saving valve to respond to this demand.
SMC will offer ASR (pressure valve) and ASQ (flow valve). ASR consists of regulator with check valve and speed controller. ASQ consists of quick supply/exhaust valve and speed controller (Meter-in, Meter-out). The body and one-touch fitting allow 360°rotation. Fixed set pressure type and variable set pressure type are available.
ASR and ASQ can cut air consumption by operating the return stroke at a reduced pressure and also prevent both jerky movement of working stroke and operation delay in a return stroke. Conventional valve does not have those functions. There is no manufacturer, which can provide the similar products at this moment.
SMC Corporation manufactures high quality actuators and cylinders, airline and air preparation equipment, high-purity products, vacuum components, instrumentation, and a host of fittings and accessories applicable to the pneumatic automation industry. SMC has a total of 14 production facilities, 3 of which are in North America –Indiana, California, and Ontario, Canada. SMC’s global presence enables it to provide quality customer service in any part of the world.
For more information on SMC’s line of air saving valve, request catalog (ES20-173A) For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com, or contact Product Manager, (Jun Kuramoto) at extension (14658).
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:37 AM | Comments (0)
Hi-Capacity, Compact 5 Port Solenoid Valves
SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of the their New style Series SY - 5 port solenoid valves for use in all industries, including semiconductor, packaging, machine tools and automotive.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of the their New style Series SY - 5 port solenoid valves for use in all industries, including semiconductor, packaging, machine tools and automotive.
The pilot valve (Series V100) used on the new series SY valves has a standard power consumption of 0.35W. With optional built in power saving circuit, the power consumption is as low as 0.1 W. By use of stainless steel body cover these pilot valves offer better mechanical strength over the conventional valves, which use resin material for body cover. The use of Fluoro rubber seal material offers better ozone and chemical resistance.
The series SY- 5 port solenoid valves are available in four sizes in both body ported and base mounted type, with Cv ranging from 0.11 to 2.2. The response time of these valves range from 10mS to 35mS, depending on the size of the valve.
The SY valves are available in various manifold configurations, including bar stock type, stacking type and cassette type, with the electrical connection option of individual wiring, flat ribbon cable or connector box.
The type 45 Plug -in style SY manifold offers compact installation with ease of modifying the manifold at site and comes with additional D sub connector electrical connector or Serial communication module, compatible with industry standard Device Net, ProfiBus and CC Link communication protocols.
These new valves and manifolds are assembled at SMC’s Indianapolis, Indiana and Tustin, California factories to serve the customers needs across the nation.
For more details about the SY valves and manifolds and how this product can help achieve your goal, contact one of the 24 SMC sales offices spread around the country.
SMC Corporation also manufactures actuators, airline and air preparation equipment, high-purity products, vacuum ejectors, instrumentation, and a host of fittings, tubing and accessories applicable to the machine tool, general machinery and automation industry. With their online product specification tool called E-Tech, customers can specify products, validate part numbers, use sizing calculators and download native CAD files to help select suitable products, and verify selection. Subsidiaries and joint ventures of SMC Corporation have been established in 38 countries, with sales having grown to a 20% share of the world market, earning it the acclaimed “Global 500” industry rating. SMC has a total of 14 production facilities, 3 of which are in North America –Indianapolis, IN, Los Angeles, CA. and Mississauga, Ontario. SMC’s global presence enables to provide best customer service in any part of the world.
For more information on SMC’s line of 5 port Series SY solenoid valves, request catalog CAT.ES11-83A. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com, or contact Product Manager Balaji Rao at extension 14848.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:36 AM | Comments (0)
Compact Manifold Regulators
SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of new Compact Manifold Regulators series ARM10/11. These regulators provide maximum space efficiency when multiple units are used.
(PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of new Compact Manifold Regulators series ARM10/11. These regulators provide maximum space efficiency when multiple units are used.
Developed to combine regulators in to a compact manifold configuration, the regulators save space, piping connections and enables mounting of a number of units in a control panel or on a DIN rail for maximum space efficiency.
The space saving ARM10/11 regulator has a built in pressure gauge and the option of two pressure ranges. Available for ports of various sizes, it also enables ports to be run out of the top or bottom for versatility, in difficult or confined spaces. The regulator banks can be made to suit the requirements of the OEMs and end users, in any industry including food, pharmaceuticals, automotive and semiconductor.
Other features include push in fittings, both straight and elbow type, and an integral isolation valve for maintenance purposes without affecting other systems, and an integral pressure switch to monitor the inlet pressure to the regulator manifold
The regulator manifolds ARM11 can either have a common supply pressure for all regulators or individual supply for each regulator, and the control knobs of the regulators can be positioned to face Top, Front or Bottom of the regulator as required.
The compact arrangement enables all regulators to be viewed together and adjustments and maintenance to be carried out from one location, thus saving operator time
The ARM10 single unit type regulator has same basic functions as ARM 11 manifold type regulator, and is ideal for panel mounting, available with top or front facing control knobs.
Non-relieving and oil free versions of these regulators also available from SMC, upon request.
The ARM regulator manifolds are assembled at SMC’s Indianapolis, Indiana factory. For more details contact one of the SMC’s 24 sales offices, near you.
SMC Corporation also manufactures actuators, airline and air preparation equipment, high-purity products, vacuum ejectors, instrumentation, and a host of fittings, tubing and accessories applicable to the machine tool, general machinery and automation industry. With their online product specification tool called E-Tech, customers can specify products, validate part numbers, use sizing calculators and download native CAD files to
help select suitable products, and verify selection. Subsidiaries and joint ventures of SMC Corporation have been established in 38 countries, with sales having grown to a 20% share of the world market, earning it the acclaimed “Global 500” industry rating. SMC has a total of 14 production facilities, 3 of which are in North America –Indianapolis, IN, Los Angeles, CA. and Mississauga, Ontario. SMC’s global presence enables to provide best customer service in any part of the world.
For more information on SMC’s line of manifold regulators, request catalog CAT.ES40-43B. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com, or contact Product Manager
Balaji Rao at extension 14848.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:35 AM | Comments (0)
SMC Expands Field Bus Offering on Series SY & VQC - 5 Port Solenoid Valves
SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment is now offering ControlNet and CANopen compatible network adaptors on Series SV and VQC solenoid valves/manifolds.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) May 18, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment is now offering ControlNet and CANopen compatible network adaptors on Series SV and VQC solenoid valves/manifolds.
The ControlNet and CANopen serial communication protocol offering from SMC complements, previously released, DeviceNet, Profibus-DP, CC-Link an As-i protocols.
The compact IP67 (Non-IP65/IP67 for ControlNet) compliant network adopter series EX250 integrates with SV and VQC manifolds and discrete input /output modules in one easy to install package. It has been designed for use in industries including automotive, food and beverage, water treatment, material handling, packaging, electronics and chemical processing.
The EX250 serial network adaptor has been designed to reduce the need for wiring between conventional serial interface units and valves installed in confined spaces. The integrated assembly of the unit comprises a serial network adaptor and a user defined number of solenoid valves mounted on a manifold.
The unit can drive 32 (24 for VQC) solenoid valve outputs and 32 sensor inputs, and is UL/CSA/CE compliant.
The EX250 network adaptor is fitted with advanced self-diagnostics function that include monitoring of solenoid valve voltage and sensor power supply over current cut-off, with status information sent to master PLC.
All piping and electrical connections of the valve manifolds are aligned on one side of the unit to keep design dimensions compact.
Each solenoid valve incorporates an LED on/off status indicator, surge protection to prevent back EMF and a flush mounted manual override button for testing of pneumatic circuit functions
The SV and VQC manifolds are assembled at SMC’s Indianapolis and Tustin facilities. For custom design manifolds please contact one of the 24 SMC sales offices near you
SMC Corporation also manufactures actuators, airline and air preparation equipment, high-purity products, vacuum ejectors, instrumentation, and a host of fittings, tubing and accessories applicable to the machine tool, general machinery and automation industry. With their online product specification tool called E-Tech, customers can specify products, validate part numbers, use sizing calculators and download native CAD files to help select suitable products, and verify selection. Subsidiaries and joint ventures of SMC Corporation have been established in 38 countries, with sales having grown to a 20% share of the world market, earning it the acclaimed “Global 500” industry rating. SMC has a total of 14 production facilities, 3 of which are in North America –Indianapolis, IN, Los Angeles, CA. and Mississauga, Ontario. SMC’s global presence enables to provide best customer service in any part of the world.
For more information on SMC’s line of Serial Network adopters and valve manifolds, visit our website at www.smcusa.com, or contact Product Manager Balaji Rao at extension 14848.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:32 AM | Comments (0)
May 16, 2005
re2, Inc. Wins Sub-Contract to Investigate the Feasibility of Establishing an Experimentation Center for Electro-Optic Sensors in Western Pennsylvania
re2, Inc. (Robotics Engineering Excellence) announced that The National Center for Defense Robotics, an initiative of The Technology Collaborative, in conjunction with The Pennsylvania State University's Electro-Optics Center, has selected re2, Inc. to conduct a six-month research study to determine the feasibility of establishing an indoor and/or outdoor Experimentation Center for Electro-Optic Sensors in Western Pennsylvania to assess the performance of various sensors on unmanned vehicles and other applications.
Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) May 16, 2005 -- re2, Inc. (Robotics Engineering Excellence), a Carnegie Mellon spin-off company specializing in mobile defense robotics, announced today that The National Center for Defense Robotics, an initiative of The Technology Collaborative, in conjunction with The Pennsylvania State University's Electro-Optics Center, has selected re2, Inc. to conduct a six-month research study to determine the feasibility of establishing an indoor and/or outdoor Experimentation Center for Electro-Optic Sensors in Western Pennsylvania to assess the performance of various sensors on unmanned vehicles and other applications.
re2, Inc. was selected to conduct this research due to the Company's extensive experience with teleoperated and autonomous unmanned systems, which require a multitude of sensors for automation. Such sensors include LADAR, RADAR, CCD Cameras, SONAR and FLIR cameras. The main advantage of having re2, Inc. perform the requirements study for an Experimentation Center is that the Company is not vested in any one sensing modality. A requirements study must remain unbiased, and re2, Inc. can provide the talent, experience and objectivity needed to conduct a successful research study.
"Not only are we proud to have been selected to lead this important research project, we are also excited about the potential addition of an electro-optics experimentation center in Western Pennsylvania," said Jorgen Pedersen, president and CEO of re2, Inc. "By establishing a state-of-the-art experimentation facility in the region, we will be able to improve our R&D and product development efforts, ensuring that the sensors that we employ have been thoroughly tested and proven before we integrate them into our unmanned systems."
"re2's project is a key first step towards establishing an integrated indoor/outdoor sensor experimentation center for unmanned vehicles that would enable the capture of standardized test data under controllable conditions," remarked Bill Thomasmeyer, President of the NCDR and Executive Vice President of The Technology Collaborative. "Such a center would be unique, would represent significant cost savings for the government, and would likely prove invaluable in helping form, grow, and locate robotic companies in the region."
About re2, Inc.
re2, Inc. (Robotics Engineering Excellence), located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a Carnegie Mellon spin-off company specializing in mobile defense robotics with an emphasis on unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and unmanned air vehicles (UAVs). re2, Inc. has partnered with universities and industry leaders, such as Carnegie Mellon and Exponent, Inc., to develop and support robotic technologies. As a defense subcontractor, re2, Inc. has contributed to the development of mobile robotic technologies for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the Army's Rapid Equipping Force (REF), The Office of2Naval Research (ONR), and The Marine Corps. For more information, visit www.resquared.com or call (412) 681-6382.
About The Technology Collaborative
Formed in December 2004 as the result of a merger between The Pittsburgh Digital Greenhouse and The Robotics Foundry, The Technology Collaborative's mission is to help increase Pennsylvania's technology-based economy by developing collaborating industry clusters that leverage the region's world-class assets in Advanced Electronics, Cyber Security, and Agile Robotics. TTC is helping to create an ideal environment for business expansion by leveraging the region's existing high-tech base, and combining it with resources and support from local universities, private foundations, regional development organizations, federal, state, and local government, and industry. They enable regional economic growth by utilizing a "business friendly" environment to attract new companies to the region, help local companies grow, and foster start-ups. For more information, visit www.technologycollaborative.org.
About the Electro-Optics Center
The Electro-Optics Center was established as an enabler of electro-optics manufacturing technology. Established and managed by Penn State under an ONR MANTECH initiative, the EOC exists to serve the need for electro-optics manufacturing technology through development and execution of technical programs, workforce development at all levels, and transition of technology to production. The EOC has formed an alliance of industry, academic and professional organizations, and government resources, called the Electro-Optics Alliance, which helps the EOC to integrate technologies and capabilities to solve electro-optic manufacturing issues.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:29 AM | Comments (0)
May 12, 2005
Visidot Installs Unique Ford F150 Chassis Identification AIDC System
ImageID Ltd., a leader in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technology has successfully installed a Visidot AIDC System at the Ford F150 plant in Dearborn to improve production speed and increase plant efficiency. The installation was implemented in conjunction with Visidot partner Wireless & Barcode in Michigan.
Tel Aviv, Israel (PRWEB) May 11, 2005 -- ImageID Ltd., a leader in Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technology has successfully installed a Visidot AIDC System at the Ford F150 plant in Dearborn to improve production speed and increase plant efficiency. The installation was implemented in conjunction with Visidot partner Wireless & Barcode in Michigan.
The Ford plant, which produces Ford F150's, uses a fully automated Build Order system to produce its trucks. With multiple frame types to choose from, the company was looking for the most efficient way to expedite verification of the chassis type as it was being placed onto the production line. In December 2004, the company decided to install the Visidot system at the frame entrance to the plant to identify and verify the correct selection of the chassis type before it reached the conveyor belt inside. The newly installed Visidot reader captures a 2D Data Matrix label affixed to each chassis and confirms, in real-time with Ford’s production line controller, that the chassis is correct and can enter the assembly line. Since installation, the system accuracy has been perfect - 100%.
Ford considered other options before selecting Visidot. The particular conditions at the plant meant that the right system would need to meet several criteria. First, due to the size of and position of the chassis, the system had to be able to capture a label from a distance of more than 20 feet and encompass a large field of view of over 3 feet wide. Secondly, the company needed to find a solution that would not incur up-charges from parts suppliers. For this reason, RFID would have been cost-prohibitive whereas the price of adding the 2D Data Matrix symbol to the existing paper label is practically zero.
Rami Kopelman, VP Sales & Marketing for ImageID, commented, “The Visidot installation at Ford has demonstrated the product’s unique advantages over other automatic identification technologies, such as RFID and linear barcode. We are very glad to work with Ford and I am pleased that the plant is already experiencing greatly improved accuracy."
About ImageID Ltd.
ImageID, the provider of the Visidot™ solution (http://www.visidot.com), develops and markets advanced multiple-asset Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) solutions. Based on imaging technology and sophisticated algorithms, the Visidot solution is capable of identifying and decoding hundreds of unique standard barcodes simultaneously in a single read, with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The Visidot solution is being used in retail supply chains, automotive manufacturing and reusable assets pool management operations to provide per-asset visibility and to increase operational efficiencies. ImageID is a multinational company with R&D facilities in Israel and direct sales and partner networks in the US and Europe.
About Wireless & Barcode Inc.
Wireless & Barcode Inc. is a Systems Integrator specializing in Data Collection and Data Capture solutions for Warehousing, Distribution, and Manufacturing environments. Wireless & Barcode provides hardware and software solutions that interface with ERP, MRP, WMS, and any existing systems to create efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings in operations. Wireless & Barcode is proud to be a Visidot certified System Integrator since 2003 and has provided Visidot solutions in Pallet Recycling as well as in the Automotive Industry.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:44 AM | Comments (0)
New Catalog of Precision Automation Components
New 220 page catalog detailing precision Automation Components. Product lines include Angular and Parallel Grippers, Linear Slides, Thrusters, Escapements, Rotary Actuators, Transfer Devices, and Pick-and-Place units.
TERRYVILLE, CT (PRWEB) May 11, 2005 -- R&I Manufacturing Company, a manufacturer of Precision Part Placement devices for the automation industry since 1968, announces the release of it new 220 page catalog detailing its complete line of Precision Automation Components.
The extensive product line includes Angular and Parallel Grippers, Linear Slides, Thrusters, Escapements, Rotary Actuators, Bi-directional Transfer Devices, and Pick-and-Place units. All products are pneumatically driven and have been time-proven in the automation industry as extremely durable and precise.
All products are designed, manufactured, and assembled in the USA allowing R&I to produce it’s automation components to a very exacting standard. “Quality and durability have always been job 1 at R&I” says Bruce Czaplicki, president of R&I.
The new catalog includes detailed technical specifications, operating principles and loading information for each product. This information is targeted toward design engineers in the automation industry. The catalog also details R&I’s unique capability to provide customers with custom product design based on their application requirements. The complete CAD library is included containing both 2D drawings and 3D solid models for direct placement into design.
The new catalog is available for request on www.rimfg.com in paper form or CD.
R&I Manufacturing has been providing the world wide Automatic Assembly industry with precision part placement devices for over 30 years. R&I has worked hand-in-hand with the leading names in the automatic assembly business.
R&I Manufacturing
118 Napco Drive
Terryville, CT 06786
PH: 800-588-0174
FAX: 860-589-6235
www.rimfg.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:43 AM | Comments (0)
May 10, 2005
International Federation of Robotics Hosts Groundbreaking Advanced Robotics E-Symposium
The Advanced Robotics E-Symposium will be held online on July 6 2005. Its international outreach, cutting edge topics and line-up of world-renowned experts already makes it one of the 'must-attend' fixtures of this year for organizations, academics, industries and government representatives.
London, (PRWEB) May 10, 2005 -- The International Federation of Robotics (IFR), in conjunction with e-symposium Ltd, are presenting the 1st International Advanced Robotics E-Symposium (AdRob 2005). It will be held online, on July 6 2005 and the entire web conference will be made available via a presentation archive which will go live 48 hours after the live event (for over 12 months).
This international web conference, co-organized by the IFR, aims at facilitating industry intelligence gathering and simulating knowledge sharing amongst members of the global personal, mobile and service robotics communities. The theme of the E-Symposium is "Current and Emerging Applications" and strategic partners of the E-Symposium include the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing and Automation (IPA) and EURON the European Robotics Research Network.
The purpose of the IFR is to promote research, development, use and international co-operation in the entire field of robotics and to act as a focal point for organizations, academics, industry and governmental representatives in activities related to robotics. Whilst the IFR’s annual International Symposium on Robotics supports this cause, it is the Advanced Robotics E-Symposium which can reach out to all corners of the world, enabling those who have limited time and travel budget to part-take in a world-leading event on specialist robotics topics form the convenience of their own working location.
IFR is the undisputed international robotics body and is the only International Robot Federation which annually publishes - in cooperation with UNECE (United Nations Geneva) - an extensive statistical analysis of the robotics market in the world. “With its international recognition and know-how, the IFR is now also responding to the rapidly growing market of non-industrial robotics by running this world-leading event which is expected to attract in excess of 1000 industry professionals from all over the world.”, says Herman Verbrugge, General Secretary of the IFR.
“Personal, Service and Mobile Robotics are rapidly gaining momentum and it is vital to establish a constant dialogue between the labs, corporations and suppliers to ensure dynamic growth of this emerging market.”, says Martin Haegele, Head of Robotics at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing & Automation (IPA) and Head of the Service Robotics Working Group at the International Federation of Robotics.
World-renowned speakers such as William Red L. Whittaker, Raja Chatila, Sukhan Lee, Martin Haegele, John Gray, Henrik Christensen, Joe Engelberger, Samad Hayati and others will share indispensable insights into Military Robotics, Robotic-Assisted Surgery, Human-Robot Interaction, Humanoid Robotics, Field Robotics, Mobile Robotics (UGVs, UAVs & UUVs), Service Robotics, Micro & Cellular Robotics, Personal Robotics, Space Robotics, Standards and more. Other exciting program highlights include round table debates on “Technology Transfer & Investment” as well as “The Mass Commercialization Challenge”. Case studies by leading sponsors such as Sony Entertainment Europe and Philips Research will also provide stimulating insights into the commercialization of robotics as well as market trends and developments.
Registration is free of charge. “The unique value of this international web conference is that it cuts down the travel-related expenses and time barriers usually associated with offline conferences”, says Val-Pierre Genton, Managing Director of e-symposium.
The high attendance levels are expected to create unprecedented knowledge-sharing from experts to delegates and vice versa. It seems that the E-Symposium covers every angle – not only can delegates attend high quality presentations from the convenience of their own working location, but they can also interact with their international colleagues via cutting edge web-based instant messaging technology. Delegates can even create private, secured ‘rooms’ to have closed meetings. With training and travel budgets tight or non-existent, this certainly is a relief for organizations, academics, industry and governmental representatives. “Our joint mission is to facilitate the gathering of industry intelligence and to stimulate international knowledge sharing”, says Val-Pierre Genton. Well, it looks like the Advanced Robotics E-Symposium 2005 does just that.
For more information and to register, visit the AdRob 2005 homepage at http://www.adrob.e-symposium.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:10 AM | Comments (0)
CoroWare and RoboDynamics Announce Robotics Integrator Partnership
CoroWare Inc. announces a partnership with RoboDynamics Corp. that promises to deliver cost-effective, reliable telepresence robotics solutions for mobile surveillance, asset tracking and mobile virtual meeting applications.
Bellevue, WA (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) May 10, 2005 -- CoroWare Inc., an innovative systems and service robotics integration firm, today announced a partnership with RoboDynamics Corp. that promises to deliver cost-effective, reliable telepresence robotics solutions for mobile surveillance, asset tracking and mobile virtual meeting applications.
Under terms of the agreement, CoroWare will become a value-added integrator for RoboDynamics' MILO robotic platform, which CoroWare will use to offer mobile service robotics solutions to enterprise and public safety customers worldwide. CoroWare will deliver complete solutions to meet customers’ specific requirements using RoboDynamics' MILO platform, third-party hardware and software components, and custom-developed application software.
"Partnering with RoboDynamics has obvious benefits for our customers," said Lloyd Spencer, president and CEO of CoroWare. "Using a best-of-breed strategy, CoroWare can offer customers greater freedom of choice by selecting robotic platforms and components and delivering an integrated and tested solution that will meet their requirements, be cost-effective and perform reliably."
Adding MILO to CoroWare's set of solutions extends its solution delivery capabilities and further enables it to support its customers' initiatives, such as improving building security with mobile surveillance solutions and reducing operational expenses with mobile virtual meeting, mobile security/surveillance, and classroom solutions.
"As a result of this agreement, CoroWare will be in a stronger position to offer its customers advanced robotics solutions by using the open and flexible MILO robotics platform," said Fred Nikgohar, RoboDynamics founder and CEO. "By working with robotics integrators such as CoroWare, we look forward to addressing customers' requirements and strategic initiatives."
About CoroWare:
CoroWare is an innovative systems and mobile service robotics application integrator that delivers forward-looking solutions and services to help customers and communities realize their IT and business goals. CoroWare's experienced team of professionals delivers integrated solutions based on Windows, Unix and IBM midrange platforms and applications. CoroWare has depth of knowledge and breadth of experience in robotics integration, embedded/mobile system integration and market development. The company also designs and builds software for platforms that range from mobile handheld devices to mobile service robots. For more information, please visit www.coroware.com/.
About RoboDynamics Corp.:
RoboDynamics Corporation is a leading developer of robotic platforms and underlying technologies with heavy emphasis on R&D and a keen interest in various robotic applications including telepresence, security, personal assistance and personality development. Our goal is to develop technologies that enable third party developers and partner companies to create high-impact robotic applications using our underlying mechanical, electronic, and software technologies. For more information about RoboDynamics please visit www.robodynamics.com/.
Press Contacts:
Steve Genova
CoroWare, Inc.
503-722-5148
e-mail protected from spam bots
Sharon Haughey
RoboDynamics Corp.
310-477-2400
e-mail protected from spam bots
Product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:09 AM | Comments (0)
CoroWare Joins Microsoft's Windows Embedded Partner Program
CoroWare Inc. has joined Microsoft's Windows Embedded Partner Program, a Microsoft initiative that helps partners market their offerings and helps customers find products and solutions based on the Windows Embedded operating systems.
Bellevue, WA (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) May 10, 2005 -- CoroWare Inc., an innovative systems integration firm and mobile service robotics specialist, today announced it has joined Microsoft's Windows Embedded Partner Program, a Microsoft initiative that helps partners market their offerings and helps customers find products and solutions based on the Windows Embedded operating systems. CoroWare is the first mobile service robotics company that has joined the program.
"Windows XP Embedded is ideal for our development efforts and, in turn, for our customers because it's lightweight and optimized for networked applications," said Lloyd Spencer, CoroWare's president and CEO. "The Windows Embedded Partner Program offers us the resources that we need to build awareness for our products and get our message out to customers and potential partners. It's a powerful blend of proven technology and effective marketing."
CoroWare is using the Microsoft Windows XP Embedded operating system to power its mobile service robots, which are based on de facto standards, off-the-shelf hardware and proven software. By using standard off-the-shelf components, CoroWare's robotics integration team can help customers build robotics solutions at a fraction of the cost of projects that have typically required specialized parts. CoroWare is also the only mobile service robotics-focused developer in Microsoft's Windows XP Embedded distribution channel.
"CoroWare is a welcome addition to the Windows Embedded Partner Program," said Sue Wilenzick, senior marketing manager for the Windows Embedded Partner Program at Microsoft. "The company's experience in embedded systems and in designing and integrating robotics solutions using Windows XP Embedded makes CoroWare an exciting addition to the strong Windows Embedded partner ecosystem."
About CoroWare:
CoroWare is an innovative systems and robotics application integrator that delivers forward-looking solutions and services to help customers and communities realize their IT and business goals. CoroWare's experienced team of professionals delivers integrated solutions based on Windows and Unix platforms and applications. CoroWare has a depth of knowledge and breadth of experience in robotics integration, embedded/mobile system integration and market development. The company also designs and builds software for platforms that range from mobile handheld devices to mobile service robots. For more information, visit CoroWare at www.coroware.com.
Contact:
Steve Genova
CoroWare, Inc.
503-722-5148
e-mail protected from spam bots
Product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:08 AM | Comments (0)
May 06, 2005
FlexLink AB Acquired by ABN AMRO Capital
FlexLink AB, a global leader in factory automation systems for the fast moving consumer goods, pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics and telecom sectors, announces its acquisition by ABN AMRO Capital, one of Europe's leading private equity providers.
Göteborg, Sweden (PRWEB) May 6, 2005 -- FlexLink AB, a global leader in factory automation systems for the fast moving consumer goods, pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics and telecom sectors, announces its acquisition by ABN AMRO Capital, one of Europe's leading private equity providers. FlexLink was acquired via a management buy-out from EQT, the private equity funds group that had originally acquired a 90% interest in FlexLink from AB SKF in 1997.
Under EQT’s ownership, FlexLink underwent comprehensive development, which resulted in FlexLink becoming a leading supplier of industrial automation equipment to production facilities in the global manufacturing and assembly industry. FlexLink today has a large and well-diversified customer base and has developed from a supplier of components to offering complete automation solutions for production processes.
FlexLink, founded in 1980, has 540 employees, with head office in Göteborg and business activities in 50 countries, including its own sales offices in 21 countries. In 2004 FlexLink achieved EBITDA of EUR 18 million in 2004 on turnover of EUR 125 million.
Johan Bjurström, Nordic Head of ABN AMRO Capital, said the company had prospered under its previous ownership but had further potential for geographic growth and to lead consolidation in its sector - key investment criteria for ABN AMRO Capital. "FlexLink is well positioned for future growth, as factory automation systems continue to develop in sophistication in response to the increased use of robotics and the growing need for flexibility in manufacturing," he said.
Fredrik Jönsson, FlexLink’s CEO, stated, "After FlexLink’s strong development during EQT’s time as an owner, I am convinced that with ABN AMRO Capital as new owners we will have the best possible preconditions to continue our growth during the coming years. We have built a platform for continued strong growth consisting of a leading range of products for the global market."
ABN AMRO Capital is the global private equity business of ABN AMRO, with teams operating in 10 countries worldwide including the Netherlands, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Sweden and Australia.
Netherlands-based ABN AMRO is a leading international bank with total assets of EUR 608.6 bln (as at 31 December 2004). It has over 3,000 branches in more than 60 countries and territories, and has a staff of about 100,000 full-time equivalents worldwide. ABN AMRO is listed on the Euronext and New York stock exchanges.
EQT is a group of private equity funds that manages just below EUR 6 billion in equity in 7 funds. EQT Partners, acting as investment advisor to all EQT funds, has offices in Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Frankfurt and Munich. In total EQT has invested in 37 companies, with a combined enterprise value of approximately EUR 13 billion.
For more information, visit www.flexlink.com; or contact Mats Nilsson, Corporate Communications, Tel. +46-(0)31-337 12 20, E-mail: e-mail protected from spam bots. In the United States, contact Paul Jarossy, Marketing Manager, at FlexLink Systems, 6580 Snowdrift Road. Allentown, PA 18106, tel. +1.610.973-8200, fax +1.610.973-8345.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)