Technology for OEM Design Engineers September 25, 2007 — Volume 3, Issue 36
JAWS CONQUERS THE SEAL Micro Plastics, Inc. introduces a new line of Double Grip Hose Clamps featuring a double-tooth interlocking jaw for exceptional strength and tighter seal applications. Molded of Nylon 6/6, these clamps are corrosion and chemical resistant and easy to install or remove. Sizes range from 1/4" (6.35mm) to 2-3/4" (69.85mm). Use in appliance, electrical, electronic, R.V., boating, and automotive applications. Free samples available, or request our NEW catalog #37. More details at
Micro Plastics.
Aerospace design gives high-tech wheelchair wings
When Aero Innovative Research of Valley Center, KS, decided to apply its aerospace-industry experience to the design of a new, high-technology wheelchair, they chose ALGOR's finite element analysis (FEA) software for stress analysis of its custom-manufactured components. Made from the same materials used in aircraft, the Flight Ultralight Wheelchair underwent extensive FEA simulation to make it as lightweight and compact as possible while ensuring necessary performance and durability. Read the full article
Haydon Switch & Instrument, Inc. is proud to introduce the 35000 series (Size 14) double stack hybrid linear actuators, which are based on some of the most advanced technology in the world today. They are available in a wide variety of resolutions ranging from .0158mm to .127mm per step and deliver thrust voluntarily limited to 222 N to avoid compromising long life. Visit Haydon Switch.
Self-locking, reusable, screw-thread fastening solution
For years, OEM product designers and fastener application engineers have struggled to provide a self-locking screw-thread system that's reusable and cost effective. While locking systems for threaded fasteners have been developed for everyday commercial products, most of these locking fasteners pose significant drawbacks that are effectively addressed by an innovative self-locking, reusable screw-thread fastening solution. The Preload Locking Internal Thread Form prevents the unnecessarily high logistical, service, and warranty costs of typical locking thread forms. Read the full article
Rotary encoders: Safe in any situation
Particularly in mechanical and plant engineering, moving axes are a potential danger, inspiring increasing numbers of designers to integrate the mandatory safety functions directly in the drive. The position encoder specialists at HEIDENHAIN are the first manufacturer to present safety-related position measuring systems based on purely serial data transmission over the EnDat 2.2 interface for use in safety-related applications. Now machine and plant manufacturers can have all the benefits of serial data transfer, such as optimization of costs, diagnostic capabilities, self-configuration, and rapid formation of the position value, in safety-related applications as well. Read the full article
MEMS systems get their own research center
Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have received a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency award to participate in a multi-university research center that will develop a computer-aided design environment for micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and nano-electromechanical systems (NEMS). Eventually engineers developing systems with MEMS devices could use a simple drag-and-drop interface to simulate not only the electrical effects of MEMS usage, but also thermal, mechanical, and reliability aspects as well. Read the full article
Wheels: Crash test video sharing aims to help car buyers
Consumers now have free access to more than 200 crash test videos as part of a collaboration between Consumer Reports and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The online videos bring a new level of research detail to shoppers looking for a new or used car, minivan, truck, or SUV.
"These videos bring the crash test data to life, showing the real safety differences between a Good car and a Poor one," says Jeff Bartlett, deputy autos editor, CR.
"Rest assured, you will demand side air bags on your
next car after watching these videos." Read the full article
5-Star Product: Low-power actuator for electronic locks and latches
The SQLM Series SQUIGGLE Motor Lock Module is a new low-power actuator for next-generation electronic locks and latches. The unit draws far less power than solenoids or stepper motors and uses only half the space. It is designed to drop into existing lock or latch assemblies, allowing lock manufacturers to reduce the size and power requirements of their electronic locks. Read the full article
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