Designfax – Technology for OEM Design Engineers was launched as an exclusive eMagazine in October 2005 following 25 successful years in print. Subscribers to the weekly publication (48 issues a year) are high-level OEM product design engineers and engineering managers who operate in a broad range of manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, appliances, medical equipment, transportation, computer process controls, industrial equipment, and more. Primary content focuses on the latest exciting applications and products for Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical, Motion Control, Fluid Power, and Materials engineering, including articles on powerful software programs that serve as a primary engineering tool. Take a look at what Designfax offers and then subscribe.
| May 06, 2025 | Volume 21 Issue 17 |
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 | Increase the lifespan of your bearings!
Smalley's Single-Turn Wave Springs are ideal for bearing preloads. The constant pressure they apply eliminates play between the ball bearings and the bearings' inner and outer races. Preloading can also lengthen the life of your bearings by reducing damage due to vibration. Additionally, preloading with a Single-Turn Wave Spring can minimize bearing noise!
Learn more. |
| | Feature articles |
 | First look: Advanced autonomous naval attack vessel
Want to know what's next-level and next-generation in the world of naval attack vessels? Take a look at the AIRCAT Bengal MC from U.S. defense company Eureka Naval Craft -- a fast and efficient autonomous surface effect ship that can carry a 40-ton payload, including a full suite of sensors and weapons.
Read the full article. |
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 | Eaton unveils differential engineered for EVs
Intelligent power management company Eaton launched a new differential engineered specifically for electric vehicles at Auto Shanghai 2025 in China. The innovative design addresses the unique challenges presented by EV propulsion systems, including shared low-viscosity oil environments, increased sensitivity to noise, and the demands of high and instant torque delivery.
Read the full article. |
 | Aston Martin DBX S: If James Bond drove an SUV
If 007 drove an SUV, it would probably be the new Aston Martin DBX S, the most powerful ICE SUV you can get that doesn't have any assistance from electric motors. With a 717-hp engine enhanced by technology transferred directly from the company's Valhalla supercar, DBX S offers one of the most engaging and responsive driving experiences and a more assertive yet elegant design.
Read the full article. |
 | What's the latest in automation? Find out at Automate 2025
Universal Robots and Mobile Industrial Robots will debut new and AI-powered automation solutions across integrated industry workflows at Automate 2025 from May 12-15 in Detroit. This joint showcase from Teradyne Robotics companies will feature comprehensive automation solutions across Automotive, Electronics Manufacturing, and Logistics zones, highlighting the power of collaborative and mobile robotics.
Read the full article. |
 | Remote automation monitoring for Android
At Automate 2025, Olis will launch a remote automation monitoring, diagnostic, and error recovery app that turns Android smartphones and tablets into gateways for any automation cell -- without the need for additional hardware. The Olis app synchronizes real-time video with system logs, collecting diagnostic data on robots and PLCs to provide a complete picture when something goes wrong. Full setup takes less than five minutes (including a simple online purchase), making this app an efficient retrofit for legacy automation systems. Many more features, including screen sharing, alert setting, and customizable workflows.
Learn more. |
 | Clever! Indexing plungers with chamfered pins
JW Winco has developed a new type of indexing plunger -- GN 824 -- that can independently latch into edges and grooves. This is made possible by a chamfered plunger pin. When the chamfered pin encounters a raised latching geometry, it retracts and then springs back out again once it reaches the latching point. This new indexing plunger can be ordered with axial thread for fastening and a black plastic knob for operating the indexing plunger. In a clever design, the plunger pin can be adjusted by 360 degrees to ensure that it encounters the mating surface perpendicularly. This hardware is well suited for transport frames, mechanisms, or covers that need to be locked in place quickly and securely, especially without the need for manual intervention.
Learn more. |
 | Torque sensors for fastening applications and more
Saelig Company has introduced the Sensor Technology SGR525/526 Series Torque Sensors to provide precision torque monitoring that is critical for performance and safety. The square drive design (for applications with non-cylindrical shafts) allows for seamless integration into power tools, test rigs, industrial machinery, and precision fastening applications, ensuring superior torque measurement without the need for additional adapters or modifications. The SGR525 offers torque measurement only, while the SGR526 provides torque, speed, and power measurement using a 360-pulse-per-revolution encoder. Industries include automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and research and development.
Learn more. |
 | Wide-angle camera optimized for larger, faster conveyor belts
Wider conveyor belts operating at higher speeds are now commonplace in modern logistics. To keep up, SVS-Vistek is offering a cost-effective alternative to multi-camera systems with its fxo901CXGE 10-GigE color camera featuring the Sony IMX901-AQR wide-aspect global shutter 16.4-megapixel CMOS sensor. Unlike standard cameras, this unit captures targets in a wide field of view while maintaining high resolutions. The 4:1 horizontal aspect ratio allows one fxo901CXGE to replace an entire multi-camera system, removing the need for image synchronization.
Learn more. |
 | New flat quarter-turn clamping fastener
IMAO Fixtureworks has expanded its One-Touch Fastener lineup to include a new quarter-turn clamping fastener that features an innovative flat design and is ideal for clamping in limited spaces. The QCFC flat quarter-turn fastener has a recessed body that protrudes only 2 mm from the mounted surface, a knob that rests flush inside the body, visible ON and OFF markings for safety, and an audible click when fully turned to clamped or unclamped position.
Learn more. |
| | Most popular last issue |
 | Good reads: Fallout from Gemini III smuggled sandwich 1965
Gemini III was not only the first time two American astronauts flew together into space. It was also the first time corned beef contraband went into orbit. After astronaut John W. Young, the pilot for the mission, confessed to hiding the snack in his spacesuit, the powers that be -- including Congress and NASA -- were not amused. [Image courtesy of NASA]
Read the full NASA article. |
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| | Videos+: Technologies and inspiration in action | Insider look: Making the 'John Wick' pinball machine
The engineers and designers at Stern Pinball provide an insider look into the development and building of their new "John Wick" pinball machine, incorporating tons of details that capture epic moments from the four-movie franchise such as car chases, dance-club fight scenes, and video clips that match the action as players progress through the game. Designing this machine was "all kind of one big puzzle," says Lead Game Designer Elliot Eismin, who has a mechanical engineering background. Neat job. Neat game. [Video screenshot courtesy of Stern Pinball]
View the video. |
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