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Embedded sensor reaps efficiency with hands-free tractor operation

Online tools help you choose the right self-locking threaded fasteners

SpaceX conducts first multi-engine firing of Falcon 9 rocket; engine swap-out time is impressive

New de-noising software reduces or eliminates spraying reflective parts for 3D scanning

Enclosures get Tool-Less plastic fabrication
When MTS Nano Instruments was looking to design a low-volume enclosure for a Nano Instrument cabinet, it turned to Tool-Less Plastic Solutions for assistance. The key to the Tool-Less technology lies in the design. Enclosures designed using this fabrication are "broken up" into individual pieces to be machined and processed separately, then they're solvent-bonded in final assembly. The technology is used to make fabricated enclosures, "hog out" enclosures, bezels, machined parts, and assemblies. Interestingly, it borrows techniques from sheet metal and wood cabinet-making work.
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Design Engineering Report: How to Harness the Power of CAE Tools Based on hundreds of on-site visits and interviews, this 10-page report shows how to avoid the common mistakes companies make during their inaugural selection and deployment of CAE tools. Learn how companies harness the power of CAD-driven CAE to develop breakthrough products, win more customers, drive quality, and protect margins. Download this report today at cfdesign.

For tiny tools, it is the size that matters
Just how teeny can you make a medical buzz saw? Synthesizing aspects of both integrated circuit manufacturing and rapid prototyping techniques, EFAB technology enables the high-quality production of intricate metal devices, millimeters to centimeters in overall size but with micron-scale features, at reasonable costs. Devices made using EFAB are produced in batches of hundreds to thousands. The process also fosters an unprecedented level of device complexity, including the creation of fully assembled mechanisms with dozens of independently moving parts.
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Super water repellent set to cause big waves in market
A water repellent developed by researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory outperforms nature at its best and could open a floodgate of commercial possibilities. The superhydrophobic material is easy to fabricate and uses inexpensive base materials. The patent-pending process could lead to the creation of a new class of water repellent products, including windshields, eyewear, clothing, building materials, road surfaces, ship hulls, and self-cleaning coatings.
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Wheels: Prototype shop keeps reservation for launch time
Just how hard can it be to make a little table for Chrysler? With the launch of the Swivel N Go interior, consisting of two captain-style mid-row seats and a fold-away table between the seats, the Town & Country Minivan becomes an ideal day traveler for visiting roadside parks and tailgating. It sounds relaxing — except, in most cases, for the teams of designers, engineers, and product technicians putting together the various new components in time for the auto show. The new seating plan made its timely production debut thanks in part to diverse rapid prototyping and engineering services from 3-Dimensional Services.
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