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October 14, 2005
High flow Valves to Drive Large Bore Actuators
SMC Corporation of America, has released their new high flow valve Series VQ5000.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) October 14, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of the their new high flow valve Series VQ5000 for use in automotive, brickwork, forestry, mineral processing, machine tool and metal casting industry to drive large bore actuators.
SMC’s new Series VQ5000, 5-port solenoid valve is designed to drive large bore actuators in applications requiring rapid movement of heavy loads. A significant feature of the series is the simplicity of valve replacement.
The series VQ5000 valves offer an extremely high coefficient of volume flow (Cv) up to 4.4, double the Cv of conventional valves commonly described as having large flow characteristics. In addition the VQ5000 has a compact body that is 30% smaller than the conventional valves.
Described as a manifold mounted ‘plug-in’ valve, the valves can be replaced without disassembling the manifold. This provides a substantial reduction in installation, maintenance and reconfiguration downtime.
Available with single or double solenoids in both metal and rubber seal construction, the valves assist rapid actuator movement by offering fast response time of up to 17 ms or less (double coil, metal seal model). These valves have a life expectancy of 100 million cycles or more and come with IP65 enclosure protection for terminal block box, lead wire, and serial communication type electrical connection. The D sub and flat ribbon cable connectors are rated to IP40 enclosure.
These valves come in various solenoid voltages including, 12, 24V in DC, and 100, 110, 200, 220 V in AC power supply. The valves with DC power supply, comes with standard power consumption of 1W and 0.5W with optional low power consumption coil.
The series VQ5000 manifold comes with a wide range of manifold options including a combination of a supply/exhaust block plate and a spacer that enables supply of compressed air at different pressures to separate stations on the same manifold.
For more details about the Series VQ5000 valve/manifold, and how it can serve your needs, 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 High Flow Valve series VQ5000, request the catalog N249 For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:18 AM | Comments (0)
UL Listed Refrigerated Air Dryers from SMC
SMC Corporation of America, has released their new Refrigerated Air Dryers Series
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) October 14, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of the their new Refrigerated Air Dryers Series IDFB*E for use in general industry, including packaging, printing, machine tool, medical and semiconductor industry to provide dry and clean compressed air to extend the life of the machinery and reduce the down time and maintenance cost.
SMC’s refrigerated dryers are built with high efficiency stainless steel heat exchanger providing long life and low pressures drops and are UL listed up to sizes covering 160-scfm flows. The series IDFB*E, SMC dryers use environmental friendly R134a/R407C refrigerant to provide pressure dew point of 37ºF and has simple control system, incorporating easy to read evaporator gauge. These compact dryers come with staggered inlet/outlet ports for easy installation and have a 3/8’ push-in condensate drain port.
To complement these dryers SMC also provides main line filters to remove oil, water and dirt particles in the compressed air, with filtration grade ranging from 0.01 micron to 0.3 microns. Also available from SMC are the point of use FRL (Filter, regulator, lubricator) combination units or individual unit.
As a complementary product to the Refrigerated Dryers, the membrane dryer Series IDG is ideal for point of use application providing dew points as low as –76ºFfor medical and dental applications.
For more details about the refrigerated dryer and filtrations systems, and how it can serve your needs, 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 Refrigerated Air Dryer, request the catalog NP040-A. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:17 AM | Comments (0)
Braintech to Supply a 3D Vision Guidance Solution For Autonomous Docking of the US Government's New Joint Strike Fighter, ("JSF")
Gantry Manufacturer Güdel, Inc. to provide vision controlled gantry.
Vancouver, BC (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) October 13, 2005 -- Braintech, Inc. (OTCBB: BRHI), a leading provider of vision guided robotic, ("VGR") software solutions, announced today that it has received an order from gantry manufacturer, Güdel, Inc. to develop an eVisionFactory™ (eVF™) based 3D-vision guidance solution. The eVF vision solution will accurately guide a large gantry, combined with an autonomous ground vehicle to grasp the new Joint Strike Fighter, for the purpose of precisely docking the aircraft on maintenance pylons.
Dale Cozart, Product Manager at Güdel states, "We chose Braintech because of their success in the automotive industry and their willingness to think outside the box in the application of their product to new industries. Their product eVF provides a stable platform for cost effectively developing reliable systems and their technologies and expertise are industry-leading in the area of 3D guidance."
Commenting on the JSF order, Owen Jones, CEO of Braintech says, "We see great opportunities for expanding our business into the Government sector. These types of projects form the foundation of a focused government business unit."
About Braintech (OTCBB: BRHI) -- For more information, visit www.braintech.com
About Güdel, Inc. -- For more information, visit www.gudel.com
eVisionFactory and eVF are trademarks of Braintech, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Statements in this document that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and reflect the current views of management with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. It is important to note that the Company's actual results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include risks and uncertainties such as technical difficulties in developing the products; competition from other suppliers of similar products; pricing that may not be acceptable to potential markets; and many other known and unknown factors. Readers should also refer to the risk disclosures outlined in the Company's 10-KSB and 10-QSB Forms filed from time to time with the SEC.
Contact:
Jennifer Summers
Braintech Inc.
#102 – 930 W 1st Street
Vancouver BC V7P 3N4
604-988-6440 x 202
e-mail protected from spam bots
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:17 AM | Comments (0)
October 12, 2005
U.S. Army Parachute Technology Demonstration to Feature Atair Aerospace’s Autonomous Agent Swarming and Collision Avoidance Technologies
Atair Aerospace (Atair AS) will demonstrate its Onyx™ precision guided parachute systems and inventive autonomous agent swarming and collision avoidance technologies before an audience of key military officials and field operatives at the 2005 Precision Airdrop Technology Conference and Demonstration (PATCAD) at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Ariz., October 17-21.
(PRWEB) October 12, 2005 -- Atair Aerospace (Atair AS) will demonstrate its Onyx™ precision guided parachute systems and inventive autonomous agent swarming and collision avoidance technologies before an audience of key military officials and field operatives at the 2005 Precision Airdrop Technology Conference and Demonstration (PATCAD) at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Ariz. October 17-21.
PATCAD is a biennial event which brings together allied militaries and governments for practical demonstrations and briefings on the latest precision airdrop technologies. Atair AS is among an elite group of defense contractors invited to demonstrate at PATCAD, and the only company demonstrating precision guided parachute systems equipped with advanced swarming (formation flying) and collision avoidance capabilities. In December 2004, Atair AS made history by becoming the first company to successfully develop and demonstrate swarming and collision avoidance capabilities on a fleet of autonomous agent UAVs. The 2005 PATCAD will be Atair AS’s second consecutive invitation to the event, and first opportunity to place its autonomous agent swarming and collision avoidance technologies on an international stage.
Onyx systems are autonomously guided parafoil systems (UAV gliders) designed to allow military cargo to be parachuted from high altitude and horizontal stand off and land accurately on target. Onyx systems can be dropped from an altitude up to 35,000 feet, autonomously glide for 30+ miles, and land on a preprogrammed target—accurate to better than 150 feet. Atair AS's advanced swarming and collision avoidance capabilities enable multiple Onyx systems (50+) with payloads ranging from two pound ground sensors or small munitions to 2,200 pounds of supplies to be deployed in the same airspace, guiding to one or multiple targets without the possibility of midair collisions. Atair AS developed the Onyx system under contract with the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Center.
Headquartered in Brooklyn, N.Y., Atair Aerospace is a high-technology defense contractor dedicated to modernizing military, government, and corporate logistics by creatively solving complex aerospace and engineering problems that integrate the state-of-the-art in parachute designs and guidance, navigation, and control systems.
For more information, contact Rick Zaccari at e-mail protected from spam bots or visit the Atair Aerospace website at www.atairaerospace.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:43 AM | Comments (0)
October 11, 2005
Design News Announces Ground-Breaking Online Motion Control and Automation Conference 2005, Sponsored by National Instruments, Galil and Aerotech
Design News announces the Ground-Breaking Online Motion Control and Automation Conference 2005, Live October 11-12, 2005. The event is sponsored by National Instruments, International Rectifier, Aerotech, Galil Motion Control, Parker Hannifin Electromechanical Automation Division and Banner Engineering.
NEW YORK, NY (PRWEB) October 10, 2005 -- Design News, the leading publication covering the latest tools, components, and materials used in mechanical and electromechanical design of a broad range of products, announces the Ground-Breaking Online Motion Control and Automation Conference 2005, Live October 11-12, 2005. The event is organized by Design News and sponsored by National Instruments, International Rectifier, Aerotech, Galil Motion Control, Parker Hannifin Electromechanical Automation Division and Banner Engineering.
The online conference offers a compelling multi-session conference program with leading industry experts. Visitors are able to attend straight from the comfort of their home or office. Topics to be covered:
- Amplifiers & Drives
- Controllers
- Feedback Devices
- Automation
- Mechanical components
- Motors
The Online Motion Control and Automation Conference is an online educational event designed for engineers who want to learn about new motion control and automation strategies, from the engineers who are using them. The conference agenda will deliver content-rich sessions and case studies addressing the relevant topics. Presenters include Dr. Eric Baumgartner, NASA JPL senior engineer that will be lecturing about: "The Mars Exploration Rover Instrument Positioning System."
This free online event comprised of multiple webcasts. Leading industry experts and solution providers offer attendees a unique opportunity to participate straight from the comfort of their home or office.
Webcast topics include:
- Tuning Servo Systems - Classical and Advanced Methods
- Optimal Component Selection for High-Performance Motion Control
- Where Are You on the Evolutionary Scale of Motion Control?
- How to Slash Design Time with Simulation Tools
- Demystifying Vision Sensing
- Addressing More Efficient Motors
More information about the event and free registration:
http://www.designnews.com/e2emotion
About the sponsors:
Aerotech
Aerotech has designed and manufactured the highest performance motion control and positioning systems for our customers in industry, government, science and research institutions around the world.
Banner Engineering
Banner offers complete and integrated line of sensing and machine safety products, from Photoelectric Sensors to Machine Safety Products, Vision Sensors, and Precision Measurement and Inspection Products.
Galil Motion Control
Galil Motion Control, Inc. specializes in providing microprocessor-based motion controllers for the purpose of controlling motors with utmost precision.
International Rectifier (IR)
International Rectifier (NYSE:IRF) engages in the design, manufacture, and marketing of power management products. Its products include analog integrated circuits and advanced circuit devices, power systems, and power components.
National Instruments
National Instruments (Nasdaq:NATI) is a technology pioneer and leader in virtual instrumentation. Leveraging PCs and commercial technologies, virtual instrumentation increases productivity and lowers costs for test, control and design applications through easy-to-integrate software, such as NI LabVIEW, and modular measurement and control hardware for PXI, PCI, USB and Ethernet.
Parker Hannifin
Parker Hannifin (NYSE: PH) is the world's leading diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of commercial, mobile, industrial and aerospace markets.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 11:46 PM | Comments (0)
October 10, 2005
Fighting Robots Invade San Francisco - ComBots Announces the 2005 ComBots Cup and Robot Fighting League Natl Championship - $10,000 top prize
The best flame-throwing, high-energy, steel-crunching robots in the world come to SF for the championship cup! After spending the last 10 months at qualifying events around the country, over 100 bots weighing up to 340 pound will thrash the competition to see who ends up as the $10,000 grand champion - the largest cash prize in combat robotics! Robots fight behind bullet proof glass in a 40 foot square steel arena. Sideshow entertainment includes the Beer-Can Can-can girls, Flash the Bartender and his fire-spewing 240cc V-8 tiki drink blender, and music from Bay Area indy bands.
San Francisco (PRWEB) October 7, 2005 -- The best combat robots in the world return to San Francisco this November to fight for the ComBots Cup Championship.
Contestants have been touring the US for the last year racking up enough points to compete for the top prize - the ComBots Cup - a $10,000 dollar grand prize so big is can only be matched by the Cup itself - 220 pounds of trophy-shaped stainless steel sex appeal which makes the Stanley Cup look like a Dixie Cup. The event is being organized by ComBots, the co-organizer of International ROBOlympics and RoboGames.
They don't look much like C-3PO, but these bots are still amazing feats of engineering. Builders from all over the world have built machines that are fully capable of surviving being run over by a tank - or taking one out! Filled with high-tech custom electronics controlling state-of-the art pneumatics, motors, and engines, the bots demonstrate their sportsmanship through shredding metal!
"These robots are not the sole domain of gearheads and engineers," said David Calkins, organizer of the event. "They're built and driven by the most diverse segments of society: A real-estate magnate, rock-band bass guitarist, plumber, and a software programmer are just some of the mad scientists behind the titanium titans competing! Some of them have spent $50,000 on precision-machined monsters, while others robots are sub $1,000 junk-bots made from broken compressor tanks."
Robots weigh up to 340 pounds and can spew streams of fire, flip their opponents into the arena ceiling, and spin hundred pound weapons faster than Bruce Lee on meth. Audience members may draw close to the action, but they jump back again in a hurry as the combatants give foundation-shaking blows to the protective steel railings inside our bullet-proof arena!
Many of these robots are stars from TV shows - both news programs and syndicated series. Robots include "Biohazard", the in-appropriately named "Snuggles", the more appropriately named "Ouch!", and reigning champions "Sewer Snake" and "Super Megabyte". Who needs the Darpa Grand Challenge when we've got robots like these?
The New York Times best summarized the growth of combat robotics in a recent article 'When Nerds Collide: Bots in the Ring' when they said "Fighting robots are not going to go away." The sport continues to grow and flourish under ComBots' nurturing - ESPN's SportsCenter named our March 2005 event one of the top ten list of things to do for that weekend. The number one rated TV show in America - 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigators' featured our combat arena and robot builders in its season 3 episode, "Precious Metal." That we were featured in a prime-time TV show exemplifies just how big this sport's become!
The event will not be limited to robot fights, however. The adorable beer-can can-can girls provide half-time entertainment, while Flash the Bartender whips up delectable concoctions for the audience with his fire-spewing 240cc V-8 drink blender. The sound system will feature music from Bay Area indy bands.
ComBots is still seeking sponsors - opportunities abound and the level of press from previous events (CNN, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, USA Today, Wired, Radio Toyota, China Daily News, etc.) guarantees a high level of visibility. Robotics is becoming the new lifestyle sport of the thinking age. ComBots events are the channel by which it becomes validated and showcased to widely diverse audience. An audience with both a voice and a higher than average disposable income. The games are still looking for sponsors - companies or groups should contact e-mail protected from spam bots if they would like to become an event sponsor and garner publicity, gratitude, and a tax-deductible donation that helps more people gain access to robotics.
About Combots:
ComBots produces live Combat Robot shows across the country, featuring some of the most under-sponsored robot builders in America. A member of the RoboT Fighting League, ComBots works to showcase the sport of the 21st Century - all of the excitement of NASCAR crashes and kick-boxing, but without any danger to the competitors. Audiences thrill to the spectacle with bleachers only a few feet from the arena, yet are kept safe by the high-tech Lexan-walled enclosure. ComBots was founded by David Calkins, president of the Robotics Society of America, head judge for BattleBots and the RobotFighting League, and founder of ROBOlympics.
Do Not Publish the Following:
High quality photos, interviews and videos of the previous events and the participating robots are available upon request.
Interview and Photo Contact:
David Calkins (RSA president)
415-297-2789
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 11:47 PM | Comments (0)
October 07, 2005
UL Listed Refrigerated Air Dryers from SMC
Indianapolis (PRWEB) October 7, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic products and filtration equipment has announced the release of the their new Refrigerated Air Dryers Series IDFB*E for use in general industry, including packaging, printing, machine tool, medical and semiconductor industry to provide dry and clean compressed air to extend the life of the machinery and reduce the down time and maintenance cost.
SMC’s refrigerated dryers are built with high efficiency stainless steel heat exchanger providing long life and low pressures drops and are UL listed up to sizes covering 160-scfm flows. The series IDFB*E, SMC dryers use environmental friendly R134a/R407C refrigerant to provide pressure dew point of 37ºF and has simple control system, incorporating easy to read evaporator gauge. These compact dryers come with staggered inlet/outlet ports for easy installation and have a 3/8’ push-in condensate drain port.
To complement these dryers SMC also provides main line filters to remove oil, water and dirt particles in the compressed air, with filtration grade ranging from 0.01 micron to 0.3 microns. Also available from SMC are the point of use FRL (Filter, regulator, lubricator) combination units or individual unit.
As a complementary product to the Refrigerated Dryers, the membrane dryer Series IDG is ideal for point of use application providing dew points as low as –76ºFfor medical and dental applications.
For more details about the refrigerated dryer and filtrations systems, and how it can serve your needs, 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 Refrigerated Air Dryer, request the catalog NP040-A. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com, or contact Product Manager Balaji Rao at extension 14848.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:25 AM | Comments (0)
Inspired Energy Launches a New High Energy Battery Optimized for use in Underwater Robotics
Developed with the needs of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in mind, the NL2044 combines the power of the 95Watt Hour “NL” range of batteries with a long, thin shape more suited to the needs of streamlined Autonomous Underwater Vehicles. However, in spite of its underwater-application design principles, the NL2044 has already also been designed into medical and computing devices, demonstrating the versatile nature of this new smart rechargeable battery.
(PRWEB) October 7, 2005 -- “The success of our existing “NL” range of 95 Watt hour batteries, and demand from customers led us to develop the new NL2044.” Said Inspired Energy Managing Director Lex Jacobs. “We worked with customers in the diverse fields of autonomous underwater vehicles, high power mobile computers and medical devices to create a new battery that suited each of their unique needs.”
All Inspired Energy smart rechargeable battery packs feature an on-board microprocessor which provides battery diagnostics, cell monitoring, fuel gauging and enables the communication of this data to the host device.
The creation of new standard smart Li ion batteries gives portable device designers a greater choice of off-the-shelf power sources. The costs of testing & certifying a new Li ion battery are often higher than the design, & tooling costs, so choosing a power source from a portfolio of established products reduces development costs and time to market.
The NL2044 battery complements two Inspired Energy product lines; The “NL” and “204” ranges shown overleaf:
The 3 batteries in Inspired Energy’s “NL” range of 95 Watt Hour battery packs form the world’s most comprehensive range of high energy standard batteries:
NL2044: 12-cell, 14.4V, 6.6Ah, 95Wh, 710g/25oz – a long, thin form factor adapted for motive power in Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
NL2024: 12-cell, 14.4V, 6.6Ah, 95Wh, 710g/25oz – a short, fat, form factor for motive power in robotics and high-energy portable computing devices.
NL2020: 12-cell, 14.4V, 6.6Ah, 95Wh, 710g/25oz – a short, fat, form factor for high-energy portable computing and instrumentation.
The “204” range of Smart Standard batteries consists of 3-cell, 6-cell, 9-cell, and now 12-cell standard battery packs sharing identical cross section & enabling device designers to pick the perfect battery to suit their requirements from a full range of products:
NL2044: 12-cell, 14.4V, 6.6Ah, 95Wh, 710g/25oz – for motive power in robotics
NI2040: 9- cell, 10.8V, 6.6Ah, 71.2Wh, 484g / 17oz – for power-hungry mobile electronics
NF2040: 6-cell, 10.8V, 4.4Ah, 47.6Wh, 330g / 12oz – for small, mobile devices
NC2040: 3-cell, 10.8V, 2.2Ah, 23.7Wh, 170g / 6oz – for handheld devices
All Inspired Energy standard battery packs share the following general specifications:
Fully compatible with Inspired Energy chargers
Fully SMBus compatible communications
Conform to the Smart Battery Data System Specification (SBDS)
Compatible with Smart Charger System (SCS) - SMBus Level 2 or higher recommended
Maximum continuous discharge rates are across the temperature range of –10°C to +50°C
All batteries mate to the 5-blade industry-standard battery connector
Device cavity size is recommended to be 1mm wider & 1mm taller than the battery dimensions
Shipped as normal, unregulated, non-hazardous goods
May be modified to suit customer and application requirements
Full specifications and material safety information available at www.inspired-energy.com
About Inspired Energy, Inc.
Inspired Energy, Inc. specializes in the creation of battery packs with built-in electronic intelligence; providing battery monitoring, highly accurate & precise fuel gauging, battery diagnostics and battery-to-host communications. In addition Inspired Energy designs and manufactures smart chargers and offers contract design and assembly services.
Clients can pick from a portfolio of existing batteries, or commission a pure custom pack or choose a customized version of a pre-existing battery in order to combine the best of low-cost standard designs with tailored electronic solutions.
Drawing on more than 50 years combined battery technology experience the management group, are also uniquely positioned to assist in the design & commercialization of fuel cell / battery hybrid systems providing the capability for the smart battery and fuel cell to communicate directly, ensuring optimum performance of the hybrid system.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:24 AM | Comments (0)
Fighting Robots Invade San Francisco - ComBots Announces the 2005 ComBots Cup and Robot Fighting League Natl Championship - $10,000 top prize
The best flame-throwing, high-energy, steel-crunching robots in the world come to SF for the championship cup! After spending the last 10 months at qualifying events around the country, over 100 bots weighing up to 340 pound will thrash the competition to see who ends up as the $10,000 grand champion - the largest cash prize in combat robotics! Robots fight behind bullet proof glass in a 40 foot square steel arena. Sideshow entertainment includes the Beer-Can Can-can girls, Flash the Bartender and his fire-spewing 240cc V-8 tiki drink blender, and music from Bay Area indy bands.
San Francisco (PRWEB) October 7, 2005 -- The best combat robots in the world return to San Francisco this November to fight for the ComBots Cup Championship.
Contestants have been touring the US for the last year racking up enough points to compete for the top prize - the ComBots Cup - a $10,000 dollar grand prize so big is can only be matched by the Cup itself - 220 pounds of trophy-shaped stainless steel sex appeal which makes the Stanley Cup look like a Dixie Cup. The event is being organized by ComBots, the co-organizer of International ROBOlympics and RoboGames.
They don't look much like C-3PO, but these bots are still amazing feats of engineering. Builders from all over the world have built machines that are fully capable of surviving being run over by a tank - or taking one out! Filled with high-tech custom electronics controlling state-of-the art pneumatics, motors, and engines, the bots demonstrate their sportsmanship through shredding metal!
"These robots are not the sole domain of gearheads and engineers," said David Calkins, organizer of the event. "They're built and driven by the most diverse segments of society: A real-estate magnate, rock-band bass guitarist, plumber, and a software programmer are just some of the mad scientists behind the titanium titans competing! Some of them have spent $50,000 on precision-machined monsters, while others robots are sub $1,000 junk-bots made from broken compressor tanks."
Robots weigh up to 340 pounds and can spew streams of fire, flip their opponents into the arena ceiling, and spin hundred pound weapons faster than Bruce Lee on meth. Audience members may draw close to the action, but they jump back again in a hurry as the combatants give foundation-shaking blows to the protective steel railings inside our bullet-proof arena!
Many of these robots are stars from TV shows - both news programs and syndicated series. Robots include "Biohazard", the in-appropriately named "Snuggles", the more appropriately named "Ouch!", and reigning champions "Sewer Snake" and "Super Megabyte". Who needs the Darpa Grand Challenge when we've got robots like these?
The New York Times best summarized the growth of combat robotics in a recent article 'When Nerds Collide: Bots in the Ring' when they said "Fighting robots are not going to go away." The sport continues to grow and flourish under ComBots' nurturing - ESPN's SportsCenter named our March 2005 event one of the top ten list of things to do for that weekend. The number one rated TV show in America - 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigators' featured our combat arena and robot builders in its season 3 episode, "Precious Metal." That we were featured in a prime-time TV show exemplifies just how big this sport's become!
The event will not be limited to robot fights, however. The adorable beer-can can-can girls provide half-time entertainment, while Flash the Bartender whips up delectable concoctions for the audience with his fire-spewing 240cc V-8 drink blender. The sound system will feature music from Bay Area indy bands.
ComBots is still seeking sponsors - opportunities abound and the level of press from previous events (CNN, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, USA Today, Wired, Radio Toyota, China Daily News, etc.) guarantees a high level of visibility. Robotics is becoming the new lifestyle sport of the thinking age. ComBots events are the channel by which it becomes validated and showcased to widely diverse audience. An audience with both a voice and a higher than average disposable income. The games are still looking for sponsors - companies or groups should contact e-mail protected from spam bots if they would like to become an event sponsor and garner publicity, gratitude, and a tax-deductible donation that helps more people gain access to robotics.
About Combots:
ComBots produces live Combat Robot shows across the country, featuring some of the most under-sponsored robot builders in America. A member of the RoboT Fighting League, ComBots works to showcase the sport of the 21st Century - all of the excitement of NASCAR crashes and kick-boxing, but without any danger to the competitors. Audiences thrill to the spectacle with bleachers only a few feet from the arena, yet are kept safe by the high-tech Lexan-walled enclosure. ComBots was founded by David Calkins, president of the Robotics Society of America, head judge for BattleBots and the RobotFighting League, and founder of ROBOlympics.
Do Not Publish the Following:
High quality photos, interviews and videos of the previous events and the participating robots are available upon request.
Interview and Photo Contact:
David Calkins (RSA president)
415-297-2789
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:24 AM | Comments (0)
October 06, 2005
Series RLQ
Compact Cylinder with Lock and Air Cushion
Indianapolis (PRWEB) October 6, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products has released the RLQ series, a compact cylinder with a lock and air cushion. This cylinder series integrates a locking mechanism and a unique new style of air cushions while maintaining a short overall length. Typical applications include drop prevention, workpiece clamping, and emergency stopping. The RLQ series is available in four bore sizes: 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm.
By using the same extrusion as the cylinder itself, the lock unit portion of the cylinder has a simple design without any unnecessary projections. Also, the simple one-way lock mechanism is lightweight and compact, allowing installation in tight spaces. With a unique construction that does not require a cushion ring, the RLQ’s air cushion design is also compact, reducing the overall length of the cylinder when compared to traditional air cushion designs.
SMC Corporation manufactures high quality actuators and valves, 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 RLQ cylinders, request catalog ES20-177. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:19 AM | Comments (0)
October 05, 2005
U.S. Military Can Do New Missions in Denied Areas With New Sensor Product from Optical Alchemy, Inc.
Optical Alchemy, Inc. announces the availability of ultra-light, KJ-600 integrated sensor payloads for mission critical UAVs. The product fills void in UAV market between the Dragon Eye and Predator Class for specialized and tactical theater.
Maynard, MA, U.S.A. (PRWEB) October 5, 2005 -- Optical Alchemy, Inc., the leading developer and manufacturer of ultra-light, inertial, stabilized sensor systems for unmanned vehicles, today announced the availability of its ultra-light, 2-Axis Sensor payload (i.e., gimbal/turret), the KJ-600, for initial field trials and deployment. The KJ-600’s comprehensive and flexible payload includes: an infrared camera (IR), visible zoom camera, laser marker, onboard IMU, GPS and digital compass.
Options include a laser range finder (LRF). It provides accurate longitude/latitude pointing. It weighs only 4 lbs. with its enhanced integrated sensor payload allowing for 50-60lbs of additional payloads, such as fuel, ammunition, or multiple sensors, in existing or new UAVs.
“Many military missions are not being addressed because of weight, cost and sensor capabilities that preclude addressing the operator’s problems in the theater,” said Marc Daigle, President, Optical Alchemy. “We have completed development, operated our first successful flight tests and we are now manufacturing our first product, the KJ-600, to address the unmet needs in the 5-50lb UAV payload market (for more information, see Unmanned Aircraft Systems Roadmap 2005-2030, Office of The Secretary of Defense, Figure 4.4-1, UA Payload Capacity vs. Endurance at http://www.uavpayloads.com/pwve.php4).
"Our company’s ‘can do’ attitude, combined with our superior product, will enable Shadow Class UAVs to carry multiple, integrated, sensor payloads (i.e., multiple KJ-600s, and sensor payloads that simultaneously do both RSTA and designation without sacrificing time on target) to carry out entirely new mission objectives, while dramatically increasing persistence.
"Our products also enable the creation of an entire new class of UAVs that can address the unmet needs in the Marines, Army, Navy and Air Force. The Navy will be able to have affordable UAVs keep a sensor blanket around the fleet, while divisions and company levels will perform penetrating missions in denied areas,” Daigle concluded.
Optical Alchemy’s KJ-600 fills the sensor void in the UAV market between the Dragon Eye and Shadow Class UAVs. In addition, Optical Alchemy’s KJ-600 enables UAVs in the Shadow and smaller class to significantly improve their endurance and sensor payloads, thereby meeting the needs of many unmet missions. KJ-600 will follow open architecture standards such as STANAG 4568 and our IP based architecture supports future net-centric open communications requirements necessary for manned and unmanned vehicle communications needs.
About Optical Alchemy, Inc.
Optical Alchemy, Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of ultra-lightweight, high performance stabilized sensor systems for unmanned vehicles. The company’s products will create a new level of persistence, enabling UAVs to dramatically expand mission ranges, save fuel, remain in the air for longer periods of time to patrol vast areas and carry additional sensors and ordinance. The company’s small, ultra-light high performance stabilized sensor systems offer the payload flexibility, inertial stabilization and high pointing accuracy required for sense and respond missions. Optical Alchemy’s system provides configurable payloads including high resolution IR and visible sensors, laser range finder (LRF), laser marker, laser designator or a user-defined custom sensor suite. Onboard IMU, GPS, digital compass and the inertial control system provide accurate latitude/longitude/elevation pointing and, combined with the LRF, target mapping.
For more information, visit http://www.uavpayloads.com or contact Joe Romano, Partner, HighGround, Inc. at 781-279-1320 x 208.
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:03 AM | Comments (0)
United States Coast Guard Signs Five Year Agreement with VideoRay to Purchase Underwater Port Security Robots.
VideoRay LLC announced today that it has been awarded a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in conjunction with its recent General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule award. The agreement expires in September, 2010, and involved a VideoRay Port Security configuration that has been deployed in nine Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) locations over the last two years. The BPA allows for advantageous pricing based on the quantity of units purchased.
Decision follows three years of testing and field deployments throughout US for Port Security
Phoenixville, PA (PRWEB) October 5, 2005 -- VideoRay LLC announced today that it has been awarded a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in conjunction with its recent General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule award. The agreement expires in September, 2010, and involved a VideoRay Port Security configuration that has been deployed in nine Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) locations over the last two years. The BPA allows for advantageous pricing based on the quantity of units purchased.
With the BPA the USCG placed its first task order, which involves the remaining MSST units and the first Port Security Unit (PSU) deployment. The task order includes training and maintenance services with each system, and at the completion of this task order all MSST units will be equipped with VideoRay systems.
"We're proud of the confidence that the US Coast Guard is showing in VideoRay though this agreement and order" said Scott Bentley, President of VideoRay. "Even though our company is relatively young and small compared to other defense contractors, our technology and market position is completely dominant in our niche of small, portable remotely-operated inspection ROVs. This recognition – and purchase of commercially-proven technology – is a win for us, the government, and for taxpayers."
VideoRay plans to continue to focus on Port Security improvements to VideoRay, and plans several exciting announcements at its upcoming VIPS event in Key Largo, Florida on November 7-9, 2005. A major presence of USCG and other first-responder public safety agencies is expected.
VideoRay now has far more Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) in service around the world than any manufacturer, and is delivering additional ROVs at an increasing rate. A significant percentage are used worldwide by military and public safety agencies. In August the General Services Administration (GSA) awarded VideoRay a contract to supply vehicles to the US government, making it easier and faster for many agencies to acquire one. See http://www.videoray.com/GSA for more information.
VideoRay submersible Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) are the most widely used small, portable, and configurable ROVs available. Weighing just 8 pounds and starting at $5995 USD, VideoRays can be equipped with sonar, positioning systems or other accessories, and are used for underwater surveys, offshore inspections, search and recovery, homeland defense, science, fish farming, and a range of applications in underwater environments.
For further information:
Chris Gibson e-mail protected from spam bots
VideoRay LLC Director, Marketing
Phone: 610.458.3000
www.videoray.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:02 AM | Comments (0)
VideoRay Delivers 500th Underwater Robot to City of Long Beach Fire Department
VideoRay LLC announced today that it has sold its 500th VideoRay unit to the City of Long Beach Fire Department. The VideoRay Pro III was the third VideoRay recently sold to area agencies to protect the ports and waterways of Southern California.
Phoenixville , PA (PRWEB) October 5, 2005 -- VideoRay LLC announced today that it has sold its 500th VideoRay unit to the City of Long Beach Fire Department. The VideoRay Pro III was the third VideoRay recently sold to area agencies to protect the ports and waterways of Southern California.
In November, 2003 the United States Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team (USCG MSST) unit 91103 in San Pedro received its VideoRay Pro II as part of program to equip each MSST unit with VideoRay underwater robotic cameras. These cameras are used to inspect piers, ship hulls, and other harbor locations rapidly, efficiently, and safely in a variety of conditions for different prevention and response scenarios.
In December, 2004, the Los Angeles Port Police purchased a VideoRay Pro III with a DHS grant to accomplish similar missions. In order to receive the maximum benefit from the unit, they purchased specialized training from VideoRay in the use of the system. When the training was conducted, MSST members and members of the City of Long Beach Fire Department attended the training. This allowed each of the agencies to learn how to use the unit to respond to boating and other harbor accidents, and terrorist attacks.
After the session, the Long Beach Fire department purchased their own unit with a third DHS grant, and it was delivered in July. The City of Long Beach Fire Department was very excited to add VideoRay to their underwater capabilities. The VideoRay can check to see what's below the surface and what shape it's in. It doesn't care how deep, cold, or contaminated the water might be. The VideoRay reduces risk to human divers and is small enough to operate off of any of the Long Beach Fire Department trucks or boats.
The San Pedro MSST, Los Angeles Port Police Beach and the Long Beach Fire Department now benefit from using the same equipment and training. They can better support each other and cooperate more efficiently, because they are familiar with each other's equipment and operating procedures. They can also rely on each other for extra equipment or back up when necessary.
VideoRay now has far more Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) in service around the world than any manufacturer, and is delivering additional ROVs at an increasing rate. A significant percentage are used worldwide by military and public safety agencies. In August the General Services Administration (GSA) awarded VideoRay a contract to supply vehicles to the US government, making it easier and faster for many agencies to acquire one. See http://www.videoray.com/GSA for more information.
VideoRay submersible Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) are the most widely used small, portable, and configurable ROVs available. Weighing just 8 pounds and starting at $5995 USD, VideoRays can be equipped with sonar, positioning systems or other accessories, and are used for underwater surveys, offshore inspections, search and recovery, homeland defense, science, fish farming, and a range of applications in underwater environments.
For further information:
Chris Gibson
VideoRay LLC Director, Marketing
Phone: 610.458.3000
www.videoray.com
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:01 AM | Comments (0)
October 03, 2005
Series RLQ
Compact Cylinder with Lock and Air Cushion
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) October 2, 2005 -- SMC Corporation of America, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products has released the RLQ series, a compact cylinder with a lock and air cushion. This cylinder series integrates a locking mechanism and a unique new style of air cushions while maintaining a short overall length. Typical applications include drop prevention, workpiece clamping, and emergency stopping. The RLQ series is available in four bore sizes: 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm.
By using the same extrusion as the cylinder itself, the lock unit portion of the cylinder has a simple design without any unnecessary projections. Also, the simple one-way lock mechanism is lightweight and compact, allowing installation in tight spaces. With a unique construction that does not require a cushion ring, the RLQ’s air cushion design is also compact, reducing the overall length of the cylinder when compared to traditional air cushion designs.
SMC Corporation manufactures high quality actuators and valves, 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 RLQ cylinders, request catalog ES20-177. For complete information, visit our website at www.smcusa.com,
Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:39 AM | Comments (0)