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.
| January 27, 2026 | Volume 22 Issue 04 |
| | Feature articles |
 | Multi-material 3D printing gets big tech boost
Seen as a breakthrough in additive manufacturing, a new 3D-printing technology developed at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Lab combines multiple extruders into a single, high-output stream -- delivering precise, multi-material prints with virtually zero waste.
Read the full article. |
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 | Can LEDs replace lasers? Sandia researchers ask AI for help
After Sandia researchers discovered how to steer LED light, they began asking whether lasers could eventually be replaced with cheaper, smaller, more energy-efficient LEDs. AI helped advance the idea, but relying on it introduced its own challenges -- especially the "black box" uncertainties behind how AI generates answers.
Read the full article. |
 | Turn-to-lock latches: New concepts from JW Winco
JW Winco has expanded its portfolio of latches, adding stainless steel versions and new functional concepts, such as the GN 115.8 series of hook-type latches that use a hook to engage with a mating catch by moving radially to the axis of rotation instead of a latch arm that moves behind a frame. When operated with a socket key, the latches can be used even in extremely wet environments. Also available are classic cam latches and rotary clamping latches.
Learn about latching options from JW Winco. |
 | Machine shops: Automation provides more for less
Siemens is pushing machine-tool automation forward with a new partnership that pairs a digital twin of its SINUMERIK 828 CNC with a KUKA robot. The system, with the robot arm integrated into the CNC, streamlines part-handling tasks and simplifies both operation and programming, giving small and mid-sized shops a practical, high-impact automation upgrade. Lots of new capabilities here.
Read the full article. |
 | New Air Cradle for quick and efficient air gun storage
EXAIR now offers the new Air Cradle Safety Air Gun Mount, a simple but innovative accessory designed to keep safety air guns and similarly sized tools within easy reach at workstations and machine centers. With its strong magnetic loop design, the Air Cradle provides a convenient, highly accessible hang point for safety air guns, helping improve workflow, minimize tool misplacement, and promote a more organized, efficient work environment across manufacturing, assembly, shipping, and other general shop applications.
Learn more. |
 | Master motor control: Resource hub for engineers
Mouser Electronics is helping engineers stay ahead in motor control design with a robust online resource center packed with high-value content. Its technical team and leading manufacturer partners have assembled a deep library of articles, blogs, eBooks, and product insights. Engineers can explore advanced motor technologies, compare the latest options, and learn optimization strategies for a wide range of applications. A smart bookmark for any designer.
Check out the Mouser motor control resource center. |
 | Top Tech Tip: How do you 3D print STL files?
Learn the basics of 3D printing STL files -- the files that serve as the digital foundation for 3D printing -- and a whole lot more from the experts at Xometry. These files have advantages, of course, but did you know they have disadvantages too? Also learn about STL tools and programs, and how to reduce file size or even repair a file you are having trouble with.
Read the Xometry article. |
 | Micro rotary encoder for robotics, aero, and more
Electromate now offers the Netzer Precision VLP-13, a miniature absolute rotary encoder for space-constrained motion systems. Its ultra-compact design and high-resolution feedback bring precise, reliable position sensing to robotics, aerospace, medical, and automation equipment. The contactless capacitive architecture delivers long-term stability and durability for mission-critical, long-service-life applications.
Learn more. |
 | Autonomous mobile robot with lots of options
With the ReBeLMove Pro, igus has launched a modular autonomous mobile robot (AMR) that is easy to customize -- from small load carrier to full-on robot solutions. Based on a compact, rectangular transport on four wheels with an electric drive, it can be integrated into company processes without any previous experience. ReBeLMove Pro can navigate autonomously at a speed up to 2 m/s, carry up to 250 kg, or pull up to 900 kg in material handling -- and it is about 25% more cost effective than most competitor models.
Learn more. |
| | Videos+: Technologies and inspiration in action | Teardown: What's inside an iPhone 17 Pro?
Join YouTuber JerryRigEverything as he dissects an iPhone 17 Pro piece by piece -- far more interesting than we thought it would be! See this unit and its many adhesive films get peeled like an onion. From its new cooling system to its battery, chips, cameras, sensors, and dual stereo speakers, there are a lot of tech layers here -- including more than 70 different-size screws to keep it all together. [Credit: Screenshot courtesy of JerryRigEverything]
View the video. |
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