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Truly the Tiniest Tweezer Tool
Harnessing 10 mm long arms, computer-controlled grippers can grab objects or cells 10 microns wide, making them suitable for assembling nanodevices and manipulating single cells. Etched from silicon, the robotic tweezers are the first to possess a sense of touch upon encountering a surface, applying a force as small as 20 nanoNewtons. With the right software and microscope combo, the tweezers can function without human control.
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Al KO's Steel in Magnesium Bout
For fastening lightweight magnesium structural components, aluminum screws continue to have the upper hand over steel counterparts. A case in point is a gearbox assembled with 20 screws. Here, the aluminum fasteners weigh in at 350 g less than steel, which adds up to a 35 ton savings for 100,000 gearbox units. In comparison tests of Al and steel screws, Arnold Umformtechnik GmbH reported higher corrosion resistance at high temperatures, greater residual clamp forces under thermal loads, and a 20 to 50% cost savings (vs steel with corrosion protection).
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Robotic Ultrasonic Welding
Begets Great Gains
By utilizing flexible robotics in a plastic ultrasonic welding process, a Chinese auto parts maker boosted productivity 6x and gained the capability to produce parts for two to five models on demand with the same equipment — all at reduced manufacturing costs. Featuring a robot, ultrasonic welder, and a positioner, the robotic cell implemented innovations like integrating the welding head to the ABB robot's sixth axis.
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Cable Assembly Cookbook
If you're involved with cable assemblies, you may be interested in getting a copy of the latest cable-assembly cookbook. The 284-page publication takes you through step-by-step procedures to design, fabricate, or spec cable assemblies. A selection chart assists in choosing a standard cable design based on your application: for example, type of cable, sealing/shielding requirements, and more.
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Recessed Button Positive Locking Pins
Jergens, Inc.
The new pins offer a positive locking feature that makes them superior to detent-style products, a common alternative. Jergens Kwik-Lok pins feature 303 stainless steel construction for the pin body.
View more products here...
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Tolerance Rings Fasten and Join Round Parts
USA Tolerance Rings
Tolerance Rings are highly engineered frictional fasteners used to economically join mating cylindrical parts. Manufactured from high-quality spring steel or stainless steel strip, tolerance rings are widely accepted as a fastening device capable of handling torque transfer, axial retention, and radial loading between mating machine parts.
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Fast-Dry Adhesive Glues Insulation to Metal
Suitable for wet bonding insulation to painted and unpainted metal substrates, a water-based adhesive can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. The flame-retardant formulation requires one porous substrate to accommodate drying in <10 min. UL Class 1 certified, the adhesive is recommended for such applications as bonding soundproofing to dishwasher and other appliance cabinets, HVAC housings, and metal ductwork/lighting.
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Low-Outgassing Epoxies
Meeting NASA's low outgassing criteria, a two-component adhesive is recommended for casting, encapsulation, impregnation, potting, and sealing use. The dimensionally stable, high-temperature-cure epoxy, which adheres well to metal, glass, and other materials, is chemically resistant to withstand harsh environments. It's also optically transparent making it suitable for fiberoptic and optical applications. One-component and thermally conductive versions are available. [Access to this article may require a short registration.]
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Optimizing Control of Robotic Welding
Delivering 15% faster cycles and 75% less downtime, EASB and ABB Robotics claim to have unveiled the "ultimate" robotics welding system. Incorporating the latest robotics with a new power source, the system features digital communication, easy programming, and one interface for robot/power control for fast setup. Applicable processes include robotic short-, spray-,
pulsed-, and rapid-arc or high-speed welding.
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Simulation Cuts Cost in Welded Al Structurals
With the cost constraints of high-volume production, achieving the optimal design of welded, age-hardening aluminum for automotive structural components can be a challenge. Fortunately, harnessing the power of Weldsim™ makes it possible to meet design criteria and property requirements by predicting the HAZ structure. Read how dimensions can be optimized to deliver load-bearing functionality at minimal cost.
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Multimaster® 300X — Optimal Efficiency in Multi-Process Welding
ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
ESAB Welding and Cutting's new ready-to-weld package with superior welding performance for MIG, TIG, and Stick electrode welding. This user-friendly machine allows you to switch easily from one process to another, depending on your need.
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Joining Technologies Installs TRUMPF Laser Cladding System
Joining Technologies
Joining Technologies, Inc. announces expansion of their state-of-the-art laser welding and restoration capabilities. They are now offering Laser-Cladding capabilities, utilizing both Laser Applied Powder (LAP™) and Laser Applied Wire (LAW™) systems. This extraordinary metal surface restoration technology allows Joining Technologies to offer a more usable and cost-effective solution.
View all our extensive capabilities… |
Metric Screw Cutter and Crimper Tool
Metric Screw & Tool Co.
Metric Screw and Tool Company, Inc., a leading supplier of metric fasteners and tools, now offers a superior quality metric screw cutter and crimping tool.
The cutter can be used to cut M2.6, M3, M3.5, M4, M4.5, and M5 threaded hardware. Its overall length is 8 1/4 in. This product is made in the U.S.A.
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Exceeding Limitations of Sheet Metal Forming
PMF Industries, Inc.
For ultimate design flexibility, the most accurate profiles, and seamless construction, we combine flowforming with other state-of-the-art processes to produce components beyond the boundaries of conventional sheet metal forming. It's what we call FlowformingPlus!
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Careers & Commentary . . . | |
A Better Job Search by Design
Dice
DiceEngineering.com offers thousands of quality engineering jobs at top technology and engineering companies. Find jobs in your area of expertise. Search now.
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Assembly Easier on Workers than "Signing"
Believe it or not, risk for ergonomic injury is higher for sign language interpreters. A new study has determined that interpreters endure more physical stress — hence a greater likelihood of carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and similar musculoskeletal conditions in the extremities — than workers on assembly lines and in other high-risk industrial environments. Greater mental/cognitive stress is to blame for 15-19% more wrist velocity and acceleration.
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Holy Mackerel! Flying Robotic Jellyfish
Whether flying or swimming, two varieties of robotic jellyfish are reported to harness automation technologies that will come in handy in factories of the future, namely, autonomous and adaptive actions. Demonstrated at the Hannover Fair, the mechatronically designed gelatinous fish steer themselves with electrically powered tentacle propulsion (Li-ion batteries). Read all about sensors, control software, and more in the Design News article. View a creature video.
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Share Your Thoughts . . . Join a Conversation About This Month's Topic...
Are Humans Safe with Robotic Coworkers?
With the proliferation of robots for assembly, welding, and other manufacturing ops, it seems natural to not get to close to a robot, the strongest of which can lift upwards of one-ton loads. Would you be concerned for your safety with a robotic coworker?
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