Appliance Technology News

Computers — and related communication/data devices — need to address environmental impact to maximize GDP growth. Otherwise, increasing constraints from carbon emissions are likely to limit growth. Toward that end, a Sustainability Innovation Quotient for the U.S. information and communication technology (ICT) sector is the key metric for energy use, carbon emissions, and economic output declines. The economic output of $2.83/kg of carbon dioxide emitted in 2009 is projected to fall to $1.06/kg in 2020. That year, computer-related emissions could nearly quadruple, while emissions for data centers, game consoles, and mobile phones could triple. In short, clean technology innovation is critical in assuring future ICT economic growth.

Schurter's new 5008 series combines an IEC C8 appliance inlet and line filter for use in Class II information technology, medical and entertainment appliances. The plastic filter housing, with no potting insulation, makes the 5008 lightweight and environmentally friendly.

New England Wire has developed a process that allows us to co-extrude two or more materials or colors into jackets on cables with final outside dimensions as small as .025 in. This results in a more durable stripe that will not scrape, peel, or rub off. Learn more...

Boxee Box by D-Link is the latest set-top device to vie for your TV-Internet preferences. This Linux-based device features greater processing power via Intel Atom, 1080p output vs 720, improved connectivity, plus broader access to online content. See how this device stacks up compared to Apple TV, Sony Internet TV, and Logitech Revue by Gizmag. Inevitably, your choice will be dictated by function.

Russian meteorologists are predicting the country's coldest winter in 1,000 years. Whether or not the prediction will come true is pure speculation. What's not speculation, however, is the rush to purchase space heaters. Manufacturers can't keep up with the demand. Neither can stores that specialize in selling HVAC equipment. This video describes the buying binge.

Featuring a touchscreen menu, a user friendly electronic device allows patients' vital signs to be monitored from home, directly communicating the data to healthcare personnel, who can view the info on a cell phone, computer, iPad, or PDA. The device monitors blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, glucose level, pulse rate, weight, and more. VitalPoint can also transmit electrocardiogram data.

If you find this subject interesting, subscribe to the GlobalSepc e-Newsletter, DirectU2 The world of Medical Equipment Design.

A new handheld device helps surgeons to completely remove tumors during surgery. After a patient is injected with contrast agents to illuminate the tumor in a second, the spectroscopic pen-like device shows surgeons when all tumor bits are completely excised — namely, when the surgical cavity becomes dark. This approach should be most helpful with breast cancer tumors, which possess nebulous boundaries.

VICOTE® Coatings, liquid dispersions based on VICTREX® PEEK^™ polymer, offer exceptional scratch and wear resistance, high temperature performance, strength, and durability. When durability, long life, and "release" properties of the coated belts are important end use requirements, select Victrex plc.

Dyneon™ is a leading global supplier of PTFE and Fluorothermoplastics to the non-stick coating industry and has developed a broad range of fluoropolymer dispersions known and used for many years in non-stick and easy-to-clean coating systems. A growing variety of cookware, bakeware and small appliances utilize Dyneon fluoropolymer dispersions in their coatings.

New generation Spiderfire commercial water heaters from Rheem might look like they belong in a Star Wars movie, but they boast a 92-95% thermal efficiency. That makes them good candidates to star in any green-minded building. Operated by natural gas, models range from 130,000 to 300,000 BTUs. The condensing water heater can also be power or direct-vented.

A compact new extractor fan is so small that it can be used inside a residential bathroom. But the manufacturer is targeting the quiet-running, self-extinguishing device especially for industrial applications that need smoke ventilation and relief from high humidity. With its extended-life ball bearing motors, the fan is guaranteed to provide 30,000 hours of continuous, trouble-free operation.

Destined for heavy duty fastening, an impact clutch accessory holder is expected to minimize breaking of bit tips plus breaking and stripping of fasteners. Been there, done them all. The patent-pending clutch accessory reduces stress on the bit, extending bit tip life > 5x vs standard holders. Targeted for both impact drivers and screw guns, the clutch can be turned on/off as needed.

Designed to put light in the right place during drilling, screw driving, sawing, and similar operations, a hands-free bright LED light quickly attaches to power tools with a Velcro strip, leaving both hands free to accurately perform the work at hand. The 100,000-hr light also features a magnetic base for mounting to metal surfaces or holding drill and screw bits.

Blow molded parts are used in nearly every new appliance. Our design staff has extensive knowledge of appliance specifications and performance needs and we work with you to provide better performance and lower costs. Learn more about Custom-Pak, Inc.

The miniature PCB Electromagetic Sound Transducers from Challenge Electronics, have various different specifications to meet your needs. Through hole, SMT, and other versions are available. Learn more about Audio Buzzers and Transducers from Challenge Electronics.

Manufacturers and their repair contractors are diagnosing equipment problems remotely to reduce onsite service calls. In August, Sears launched Kenmore Connect, which links malfunctioning appliances to a service center, where personnel view data generated by the troubled machine. Monitoring more than 100 different data points to diagnose and assess a solution, these Web-wise troubleshooters are expected to eventually halve maintenance calls.

Created just so the kids can have fun, a Japanese robotics manufacturer has made a bi-pedal 5 1/4 ft tall exoskeleton that safely shuffles around with kid-safe hand and pedal controls. The gasoline-powered 500 lb machine is also set up with a center of gravity and not-too-fast moves to prevent toppling. The Kid's Walker is expected to sell for a hefty $21,000. Use it for chores?

For more on this subject, subscribe to GlobalSpec's e-Newsletter, DirectU2 The world of Robotic Systems.

Calling an EV a Major Home Appliance

If an EV is usually charged at home, it could be so categorized. What do you think?