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Archive of Entertainment Engineering Magazine's past newsletters. Newsletter Archive Inspiring today's engineer with creative applications and cross-industry innovation. Proven ideas designed to inform, motivate, and translate into real-world results. 8/5/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Real-life recreations of gadgets from The Mandalorian ; animating piano performances using mo-cap; how scientists keep CERN's Large Hadron Collider clean and operating smoothly; and more! READ MORE 7/16/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... New ways to teach yourself drums, piano, guitar, and more; inside an immersive solar system exhibit; the tech that keeps a distillery running as smooth as their bourbon; and more! READ MORE 6/24/26 - Roundup IN THIS ROUNDUP: Here at Entertainment Engineering , we believe in the value of creative minds like yours. It's why we often talk about the power of tech transfer : the potential for a case study in one industry to inspire innovation in an unrelated field. READ MORE 6/3/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... A look inside the tech for the new Fast & Furious roller coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood; the numerous considerations behind fixed-wing drones; the track grinding train technology that guarantees a smooth ride; and more! READ MORE 5/13/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... A look inside the Fountains of Bellagio in Vegas; an immersive night tour experience that blends nature and light projection; new developments in knife steel availability; and more! READ MORE 4/22/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Testing oxygen masks for fighter jets; how an ocean vessel got a customized, rust-resistant radar system; the visual displays used in a massive, complex stage event with in-person and broadcast attendees; and more! READ MORE 4/1/26 - Q1 Roundup IN THIS ROUNDUP: What do you find entertaining? Inspiring? Cool? Here at Entertainment Engineering , we are constantly asking ourselves this question. Cool applications are often found in the entertainment industry: stage events, theme parks, film, and more. But if you've been here a while, you know that we don't limit ourselves to >>> READ MORE 3/11/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The specialized visual technology that created a stadium-scale spectacle for Dua Lipa's Radical Optimism Tour; the precision behind docking NASA's Orion spacecraft; restoring vintage cars with 3D printing; and more! READ MORE 2/17/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Robot goalie takes on legendary Portugal soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo; the tiny component that keeps cargo ships afloat in harsh weather; our interview with Joe Rando of Rando Productions; and more! READ MORE 1/28/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The face of Disney's new Next Gen Animatronic technology; touch screen tech for rent; the interesting solutions behind new eco-friendly recycling techniques; and more. P.S. Will we see you at MD&M West? READ MORE 1/7/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: A rock concert "Fire Snake" that syncs to music; an open-source robot that promotes collective innovation; specialized components for dirt bike testing; our coolest articles from Q4 of 2025; and lots more. READ MORE 12/10/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Watch our interview with Michael Cuaresma, a Mechatronics Application Engineer at Festo; learn about how astronomers are using industrial components to control their telescopes with precision; get a glimpse inside how wearable technology is manufactured; and so much more. READ MORE 11/19/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Watch EARL the bowling robot compete against a bowling champ; how a boutique visual effects film studio manages data; the components behind a fire truck ladder upgrade; and more. READ MORE 10/29/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Experience the International Space Station with VR; learn how TED manages high-stakes live event communications; how a small component in makeup packaging adds to a high-end experience; hear from our Editor-in-Chief Terry Persun; and more. READ MORE 10/8/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How a systems integration business owner and engineer used spare components to create some DIY Halloween fun; Entertainment Engineering's one-on-one interview with Henry O'Bryan of Biomerics about how creative 3DP hobbies add to his professional work as an engineer; and go-karts that include video-game-style power-ups for an enhanced experience. READ MORE 9/17/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Giant laser-headed industrial class robots dance at Drake concert; the miniature solenoid valves used in Formula 1 racing; the flexible automation behind 60 different stage configurations at Perelman Performing Arts Center in New York; and how an interactive museum table exhibit shows volcanoes erupting. READ MORE 8/27/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: A short film on Disney+ uses augmented reality to extend the experience into your living room; motorcycle craftsmanship and innovation meet precision tooling solutions; touch screen displays use an optical bond to improve viewing experience; and the specialized lighting illuminating an environmental education center. READ MORE 8/6/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: A new martial arts training vest that tracks striking power and reaction time; how innovative components helped Harley-Davidson® reduce weight and increase speed; the pumps that power and cool the internet; and the custom aerial rigging that's redefining what's possible in the air. READ MORE 7/16/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The ways space flight applications challenge motor design; how a student team developed an underwater remote operated vehicle using industrial-grade components; how the increase of electric vehicles impacts charging station technology; and the motion control behind amusement park animatronics. READ MORE 6/23/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How 3D printing is a game changer for film studios; the motion control technology behind high-end animatronics; a new custom software that's changing the wine industry; and the hi-tech cameras behind a TV drama. READ MORE 7/29/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... 3D printing prosthetics for dogs, horses, and other animals; shooting a microdrama musical in a vertical format; protecting scents and flavors during production with the right materials; and more! READ MORE 7/8/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Drones that navigate like bats; a new stone carving process developed by Disney Imagineering; a custom motor that keeps plants happy in a countertop garden; and more! READ MORE 6/17/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Tower rides at theme parks; LED systems that travel from rodeos to Red Rocks; a University building with a moving roof that provides shade even as the light changes; and more! READ MORE 5/27/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... The process of sculpting a digital character; the engineering behind an environmental emergency training center; blending light, artistic design, and engineering; and more! READ MORE 5/6/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... A zero-emissions movie set; the communication infrastructure for the first vertical spaceport in Europe; a versatile and scalable vehicle; and more! READ MORE 4/15/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Vehicles, vehicles, and more vehicles! Read about the world's first electric snowbike; how car developers use sound and vibration simulation for development; the latest technology behind EV charging; and more! READ MORE 3/25/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The advanced automation and water technology that keeps a 120,000 square foot water park operating smoothly; how a telescope adjusts for atmospheric variation automatically; transforming the Washington Monument with a complex array of projection mapping; and more! READ MORE 3/4/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How LED displays and real-time CGI could replace green screens in film; impact-absorbing innovation in sports gear materials is helping athletes avoid bone, joint, and brain damage; what it's like to step inside an anechoic chamber; and more! READ MORE 2/11/26 - MD&M West IN THIS DIGEST: A recap of the epic applications, innovative solutions, and cool case studies we featured at MD&M West, spanning industries from automation to materials to software and more. If you were at the show, we hope you returned home feeling as inspired as we did! READ MORE 1/21/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Animatronic eagles soar in the Rose Parade; the seven considerations behind the most ambitious aquarium designs; how scientists are listening in on blue whales; and more. READ MORE 12/31/25 - Roundup IN THIS ROUNDUP: To mark the end of 2025, this week, we're featuring our top-performing stories across eight different tech categories, from 3D Printing to Robotics. Theme parks, movies, sports, and other forms of entertainment all require innovative technology — and that tech comes from engineers across all industries. We hope you see yourself and your work reflected in these pieces! READ MORE 12/3/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The next-level components behind NASCAR's upgraded machining processes; a creative custom solution for a servo drive's deep sea application; the advanced system that keeps a roller coaster hybrid ride running smoothly; a December note from EE Editor-in-Chief Terry Persun; and more. READ MORE 11/12/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Mushrooms playing music with bionic arms; a dance performance that utilizes motion capture and drones; an inventive electric utility vehicle; Wicked technology on Broadway (in case you missed it); and much more. READ MORE 10/22/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The water systems behind the most technologically advanced Legoland; how a music fest provided optimal concert sound while reducing noise in the surrounding community; and a sushi dispenser that can be used in space (yes, really). READ MORE 10/1/25 - Roundup IN THIS ROUNDUP: This week, we're featuring nine stories across eight different tech categories that exemplify Entertainment Engineering's ethos of "technology transfer," where you, our reader, can learn about a creative solution from one industry—in our case, an entertainment application—and hopefully apply it to your own industry with minimal tweaking. READ MORE 9/10/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: 3D-printing boats with an industrial robot; undersea mapping for ocean exploration; fountain technology pushes the boundaries of what a water feature can do; and precision rotational stages use motion feedback to enhance concerts, theme parks, and more. READ MORE 8/20/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Haptic feedback shakes up the F1 movie trailer; the fasteners proving more reliable for stage event truss systems; the automation technology used to simulate a bat's echolocation; and the lights making LA's historic City Hall Park greener. READ MORE 7/30/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: An air taxi with water as the only byproduct; a creative rigging solution for a moveable nightclub ceiling; how filmmakers are backing up their data when filming on location; and why OEMs are turning to software-centric approaches for automotive design. READ MORE 7/9/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The lenses that gave Jurassic World Rebirth its nostalgic look; capturing speed and spin rate in baseball; a unique cooling solution for an electric aircraft; and a roller coaster utilizing virtual reality technology. READ MORE Our Relaunch After a hiatus, Entertainment Engineering Magazine is returning to provide you with the latest in innovative technology and epic applications! READ MORE 7/22/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Two ingenious IMAX solutions on the set of Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey"; customizing large, complex industrial equipment using 3D scanners; how researchers are finding ways to listen in on the quantum world; and more! READ MORE 7/1/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... A stage performance that simulates zero gravity on the high seas; taking a water feature idea from a napkin sketch to a precisely-engineered aquatic showstopper; the equipment used in the search for extraterrestrial life; and more! READ MORE 6/10/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Software! Including a new update to the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride at Disney parks; the artistic freedom and engineering behind licensed toy creation; continuous collaboration for global design teams; and more. READ MORE 5/20/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... Components that are coming in clutch in the Corvette Racing Program; beer brewing with precision components; microgreens on conveyors; and more! READ MORE 4/29/26 - Digest INSPIRING YOU WITH... A 3D scan of the entire Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg; window glass that doesn't hinder your cell service; a peek inside gaming consoles; our new series on how companies turn challenges into innovation; and more! READ MORE 4/8/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How the moving stage at Cirque du Soleil's KA is powered; the motion control technology behind a "Flying Theater" screen with synchronized effects; upgrading to hybrid trains; and more! READ MORE 3/18/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How scientists 3D scanned and printed dinosaur skin to allow museum goers to "pet" a dinosaur; the smart systems and advanced aquatic engineering that keep surf parks running smoothly; how a small theatre upgraded its rotating stage; and more! READ MORE 2/25/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Climb aboard the world's tallest ferris wheel; how engineers are using CT scanning to fine-tune their manufacturing processes; how Iceland's renowned theatre upgraded its intercom system with minimal disruption; and more! READ MORE 2/4/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Engineers had to overcome weather, remote locations, and other unique challenges for beehive monitoring technology; the core innovations behind embodied AI; how one company is using water as a refrigerant; and more. READ MORE 1/14/26 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How an old helicopter and light projectors come together for an epic show; the precise motion that makes it possible to track stars and black holes; the unique technology behind Disney's new Olaf robot; and lots more. READ MORE 12/17/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: We went behind-the-scenes at Disney's The Lion King Musical to show you the tech behind the show; the surprisingly clever water technology behind the interactive theme park boat ride at Camp Snoopy; the inside scoop on book-printing machines; and more. READ MORE 11/26/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Wicked technology lights up Comic-Con; laser tag arena gets a comms upgrade; the secret behind quiet golf buggies; turning the impossible into groundbreaking work; and more. READ MORE 11/5/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: The latest in spatial computing technology; the industrial automation components behind the most powerful standalone telescope; how a tabletop cricket game was created with prototyping; industrial class robots at concerts; and more. READ MORE 10/15/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How motion simulation bases span industries from aviation to theme park entertainment; learn about the AI workflows that help artists and producers work more efficiently; and the equipment behind one photographer's mission to capture the European Bee-eater. READ MORE 9/24/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Fictional characters brought to life as whimsical robots; robot bugs inspired by nature to mimic the real thing; 3D printing violins for schools; making aquariums more accessible; and more! READ MORE 9/3/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: A solar-powered race car crosses a continent; high-end cameras used to capture wild horses; an automated solution to electronic waste; and delivery robots transformed into roving marketing bots to promote a new film. READ MORE 8/13/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: Thanks to motion control, Tron: Ares offers a powerful new visual experience; our interview with Chris Porter of igus, Inc. about inspiration and amusement parks; the linear bearings lifting up museum displays; and the new lights illuminating San Francisco. READ MORE 7/23/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: How the witch in Wicked defies gravity on Broadway; bringing Walt Disney to life with animatronics; the high-tech cameras capturing the French Grand Prix; and the highly versatile lighting units used in film. READ MORE 7/2/25 - Digest IN THIS DIGEST: A look inside the rotating chairs on The Voice ; the advanced 3D printing behind a new electric race car; how virtual production stages are changing how filmmakers work; and the CAD software behind performance swimwear. READ MORE

To place the viewer at the center of the action, the French media company CANAL+ deployed multiple cameras to catch the raw speed of the French Grand Prix. High-Tech Camera and Software Capture the Speed of the French Grand Prix To place the viewer at the center of the action, the French media company CANAL+ deployed multiple cameras to catch the raw speed of the French Grand Prix. Blackmagic Sports Jul 22, 2025 MotoGP™, the motorcycle road racing world championship, has always tested the limits of what audiences can see and hear on screen. For its latest project, CANAL+ set out to capture not just the speed but also the quieter moments that define a race weekend. The documentary was filmed entirely with the new Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive camera and finished in DaVinci Resolve Studio. The sports documentary is part of a new generation of immersive workflows for capture, postproduction, and viewing on Apple Vision Pro. Produced in collaboration with MotoGP and Apple, the documentary follows world champion Johann Zarco and his team during their dramatic home victory at the French Grand Prix in Le Mans. The event was captured using the URSA Cine Immersive camera with dual 8160 x 7200 (58.7 Megapixel) sensors at 90fps, delivering 3D immersive cinema content to a single file mixed with Apple Spatial Audio. The MotoGP sports experience places viewers in the heart of the action, from the pit lane and paddock to the podium. All photos courtesy of Blackmagic Design “MotoGP is made for this format,” said journalist Etienne Pidoux at CANAL+. “You feel the raw speed, and you see details you’d otherwise miss on a flat screen. It puts you closer to the machines and the team than ever before.” To place the viewer at the center of the action, CANAL+ deployed multiple URSA Cine Immersive cameras. “Two cameras were on pedestals and one on a Steadicam,” explained Pierre Maillat of CANAL+. “We needed to swap quickly between Steadicam and fixed setups depending on what was occurring at the moment. The Steadicam setup was extremely valuable,” noted Pidoux. “It made us more reactive in a fast-changing environment, giving us more agility while filming.” All photos courtesy of Blackmagic Design “Immersive video changes how you shoot,” added Pidoux. “You plan more, shoot less, and you rethink composition because of the 180 degree view, especially in tight or crowded spaces like the pit lane.” Lighting was also a consideration inside the team garages. “We added some extra light to compensate for the 90 frames per second stereoscopic capture.” Each camera was paired with an ambisonic microphone to capture first order spatial audio. The mics were then supplemented by discrete microphones for interviews and other critical sound sources. The documentary was recorded in ambisonics Format A for the immersive mix and channel based for other sources. Everything was timecoded wirelessly and synced on both the cameras and the external recorders. Post Production A portable production cart with Mac Studio running DaVinci Resolve Studio, alongside an Apple Vision Pro, was set up trackside to monitor and test shots in context. “This approach allowed us to check the content right after shooting and helped us verify framing while still on location,” said Maillat. Canal+ had a second Mac Studio running DaVinci Resolve Studio and an Apple Vision Pro set up at the hotel in Le Mans to handle media offload and backups. With 8TB of internal storage, recording directly to the Media Module, the crew could film more than two hours of 8K stereoscopic 3D immersive footage on the track without needing to change cards. Postproduction took place in Paris, where Canal+ used a Mac Studio running DaVinci Resolve Studio for editing, color grading, and audio mixing. They were even able to preview the stereoscopic timeline directly in Apple Vision Pro, which was crucial for immersive grading. Spatial Audio was mixed using DaVinci Resolve Studio’s Fairlight. “Initially, we planned to use a different digital audio workstation (DAW), but DaVinci Resolve Studio and Fairlight was the platform that gave us both creative flexibility and the high-quality deliverables for Apple Vision Pro,” explained Maillat. “Filming with the URSA Cine Immersive camera and viewing it in Apple Vision Pro, we found incredible moments we’d normally treat as background,” Pidoux concluded. “Cleaning the track, helmet close ups, the crowd, they all become part of the experience.” NOTE: The MotoGP™ Apple Immersive sports experience will be available exclusively on the CANAL+ app on Apple Vision Pro starting September 2025. For more information: Blackmagic Design MotoGP CANAL+ Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Designed to operate in various environments where human-machine interaction is essential, this humanoid robot provides versatility, intelligence, and is fully modular. Reachy the Open-Source Robot is Designed for Research and Industry Designed to operate in various environments where human-machine interaction is essential, this humanoid robot provides versatility, intelligence, and is fully modular. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jan 6, 2026 Reachy 2, from Pollen Robotics, was designed to adapt to a wide variety of uses and allows users to choose from several configurations. Its natural expressions and gestures make it an intuitive and engaging robot, capable of integrating into social environments. The robot’s fluidity is based on the company’s key innovation, Orbita, the bio-inspired joint system. The Orbita 3D is mounted to the robot as the wrists and neck, allowing harmonious and smooth movements with a wide range thanks to its three degrees of freedom. Similarly, the Orbita 2D, integrated into the elbows and shoulders, articulates via two degrees of freedom. The Orbita 2D is design to support loads of up to 3 kg. Image courtesy of Pollen Robotics. Reachy 2 is equipped with a Python SDK and is based on ROS2, offering researchers and developers an open and flexible programming environment. According to Elsa Kervella, Sales and Marketing Director at Pollen Robotics, “We designed Reachy as a platform: researchers can integrate their own algorithms, and developers can enrich the software.” Reachy even includes a teleoperation feature—remote control—opening up additional prospects for difficult-to-access environments or those requiring great precision. With a virtual reality headset, an operator can control the robot's movements in real-time as well as teach it new movements. This learning capability allows Reachy to reproduce learned gestures autonomously. Image courtesy of Pollen Robotics. The open-source approach is a central pillar of Pollen Robotics' identity. By making Reachy's plans and resources public, the company offers the global community an opportunity to customize and enrich the platform. This choice promotes collective innovation, aligned with the goal of democratizing access to useful robotics. "This not only allows our customers to adapt Reachy to their needs but also a global community to advance the technology, " said Kervella. Reachy was designed to appeal to both the academic world and industrial world. In prestigious institutions like EPFL or Cornell University, it is used to explore human-robot interaction and machine learning, pushing the limits of artificial intelligence in real conditions. In industry, its modularity allows it to adapt to complex environments, whether for cobotic tasks or specific simulations. When Pollen Robotics sought to push Reachy's limits, the company found a solid partner in maxon. The two teams closely collaborated to meet a challenge: adapting the components to demanding environments while respecting the robot's design and modularity constraints. Integrating the motors into the Orbita joints was a challenge as it was necessary to reconcile performance, compactness, and reliability while respecting Reachy's humanoid design. maxon met this challenge with a series of integrations including different motors, gearmotors, and sensors. For example, the maxon EC-45 flat motor featured an optimized winding design and powerful magnets. Its efficient heat dissipation enabled continuous operation at high performance levels while its flat design facilitated integration in confined spaces. The MILE inductive encoder was the perfect complement to the flat motors, offering high resolution and precision. The inverted-signal encoder was extremely resistant to magnetic and electric fields, as well as to dirt. It was directly integrated into the motor. GPX32 gearboxes offered over 90% efficiencies to ensure smooth and efficient movements. Their robustness ensured reliable handling, even under demanding conditions. From left to right: EC flat, ECX torque, GPX gearhead. Images courtesy of maxon. Additional components included maxon’s ECX22torque motors and GPX22C gearboxes. Compact and powerful the motors provided exceptional torque densities for precise motion, while their iron-core windings and multipolar design guaranteed the optimum energy efficiency necessary for dynamic, real-time movements. The gearboxes delivered exceptional power transmission, and their modular design made it possible to create customized solutions for customers. According to Kevin Schwartz, Sales Engineer at maxon, “The compactness and performance of the motors were essential to respect Reachy's humanoid design while increasing its load capacity.” Overall, the integration of maxon solutions has pushed the limits of Reachy, making it a platform as powerful as it is modular. Lead image courtesy of Pollen Robotics. For information: Pollen Robotics maxon Flat motors Gearboxes Sensors Read more about robots >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Before a full-scale model could be manufactured, prototyping focused on smaller, more manageable designs allowing for greater creativity while keeping costs down. Prototypes Played a Crucial Role in Development of Tabletop Cricket Game Before a full-scale model could be manufactured, prototyping focused on smaller, more manageable designs allowing for greater creativity while keeping costs down. Edited by EE Staff Games Oct 30, 2025 TG&A (Tom Grimm & Associates, Inc.) is an international product development company that performs everything from concept exploration and creation to engineering development and manufacturing. The company’s projects are always managed collaboratively and with budgets and time-to-market in mind. Before producing a 56-inch x 40-inch office version of CricketLive, the game was first developed in a reduced size. TG&A worked closely with ThrowMotion in the early design, providing the Batsman mechanism and one of several bowler mechanisms as well as the basic configuration of the field and its ball-return geometry. Once design features were determined, the final construction was scaled for use in arcades. Cricket is a bat-and-ball game where two teams of eleven players each alternate between batting and fielding, similar to baseball. There are a number of differences such as the shape of bat, the bowling action, and the shape of the playing field, but ball dynamics (speeds) are similar. The batting team scores runs by hitting the ball and running between three-stump wickets or hitting boundaries. The team in the field tries to either bowl out the batsmen, catch their hits, or run them out. In the tabletop cricket game, a real ball is bowled by one player, the bowler, and a batsman, controlled by his opponent, tries to hit the ball. The player is able to swing the bat and swivel the player in multiple directions to try to hit the ball. Sensors and a mounted tablet app display, tracks and shows the scores in real time. The CAD images below illustrate the development of the first prototype of the movement mechanisms for the batsman. The basic mechanisms have changed only slightly since the prototype was built. Images courtesy of TG&A. Alternative mechanisms for the bowler included a user-guided mechanical version and a fully electronically controlled mechanical bowler. Both were developed through the prototype phase. Ultimately though, the cost of manufacturing won out and drove the design toward the simpler user-guided, spring-loaded mechanism. Images courtesy of TG&A. Multiple iterations of the table design were also created and modeled from the original arcade-driven, larger size which enabled multiple players to participate, to the final smaller home/office appropriate size. Images courtesy of TG&A. Although TG&A was not involved with the final product shown at the top of this article, many of the prototyped mechanisms remained. Watch out for a home version of the cricket game coming to market in 2026. For more information: TG&A ThrowMotion, Inc. Read more about games >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Multiple Acorn-Style Post-Top LED lamps are used to illuminate the Los Angeles City Hall building and surrounding public park. LA Historic City Hall Park Turns Greener Multiple Acorn-Style Post-Top LED lamps are used to illuminate the Los Angeles City Hall building and surrounding public park. Cool Stuff Aug 13, 2025 For over 80 years, the park surrounding the main Los Angeles City Hall building had served as a gathering place for the community and elected officials in the urban center of the city. Eventually, the park was cordoned off by a chain-link fence, after police cleared hundreds of Occupy L.A. demonstrators who had camped on the lawn for nearly two months. When City Hall Park reopened after eight months of repair work, sustainability and energy conservation were among a variety of articulated criteria for its restoration. At the time, the mayor felt as though they city was presented with a chance to reinvest in a park that was greener, smarter, and more sustainable. The nearly $1 million in renovations included a smart irrigation installation, water retention schemes, turf reduction, replanting with water-stingy native vegetation, and investing in “energy-efficient LED lighting. All photos courtesy of LEDtronics. Located around the tree-lined pathways and stairs of the 1.7-acre park, 13 lampposts – previously fitted with ballasted 130-watt high-pressure-sodium post-top bulbs – were replaced with 27-watt LED lamps from LEDtronics. With its latest rehabilitation with environment-friendly landscaping, water conservation and energy-efficient lighting from LEDtronics, the park has also become, a symbol of sustainability for the city. Apart from the energy savings of 103 watts per unit, the LED lamps offer much longer product lifespans than HPS or Metal Halide, resulting in reduced replacement and maintenance costs; improved visibility and enhanced night vision (as compared with the high glare emitted from HID lamps), and reduction of hot-spots, all helping with crime prevention; reduced light pollution, because light can be directed where it is needed and not into surrounding office buildings; and instant illumination with no delay in re-strike, and no ultraviolet emissions that attract insects. All photos courtesy of LEDtronics. The installed warm-white LEDtronics Acorn-Style Post-Top Lamps operate on a 100-277VAC wide voltage range and provide a uniform pattern of light. The ETL-listed units feature a ventilated assembly that maintains a cool-running lamp, and an optimized circuitry that corrects the power factor for maximum efficiency. They are made in the USA from imported parts and meet Buy American requirements within the ARRA program. The lamps come with a 5-year factory warranty. Similar LEDtronics post-top LED lamps have been installed in neighborhoods all around Southern California, including the Pasadena Civic Center and its residential streets; Mountain Gate Park in Corona; all along Linden Avenue and the Metro station in Carpinteria; Library Park in Monrovia, and streets in Santa Ana. For more information: LEDtronics LA Parks Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

An original storyline featuring Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge gives guests greater control over new destinations. Mandalorian and Grogu Featured in New Update to Ride at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge An original storyline featuring Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge gives guests greater control over new destinations. Terry Persun Stage Events Jun 8, 2026 Film and TV Visitors of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif. and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, FL get to experience an all-new mission aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. The update introduces expanded gameplay, new destinations across the galaxy and appearances from fan-favorite duo, the Mandalorian and Grogu. This debut coincides with the premiere of Lucasfilm’s new film, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” highlighting Disney’s use of cutting-edge technology and the unique collaboration between creative teams. The storyline has guests teaming up with Hondo Ohnaka, who is searching for recruits to help track down two ex-Imperial officers and a pirate in exchange for any cargo collected along the way. Each decision shapes how the story unfolds with the crew choosing which destination to chase down the bounties, unlocking adventures across multiple iconic locations, including Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star near Endor, and the bustling city-planet Coruscant. Photo courtesy of Disney & TM Locasfilm Ltd. The updated experience also introduces new interactive elements for each crew role. Pilots, gunners and engineers continue to work together to complete their mission, with expanded responsibilities that deepen gameplay. Engineers in particular will take on a new role during the mission, including choosing the destination and calling Grogu in real time, adding a unique layer of connection and unpredictability to each flight. Photo courtesy of Disney & TM Locasfilm Ltd. “Collaborating with Lucasfilm to launch this new mission alongside the film has been incredibly exciting,” said Asa Kalama, Executive, Creative and Interactive Experiences, Walt Disney Imagineering. “This new story will transport guests into the galaxy with Mando and Grogu and every flight aboard the Millennium Falcon will feel like a one-of-a-kind adventure for each member of the crew.” Photo courtesy of Disney & TM Locasfilm Ltd. Software Integration The attraction was developed in collaboration with Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), leveraging cutting-edge technology powered by Unreal Engine 5, the same tools used in the Disney+ show, “The Mandalorian”, to create a more dynamic, responsive and immersive adventure than ever before. Unreal Engine is an open and advanced 3D creation tool. It was created to enable game developers and creators across multiple industries to easily produce real-time 3D content and experiences with greater freedom, fidelity, and flexibility. This includes industrial simulations that feel like real life. In addition to using Unreal Engine 5, Walt Disney Imagineering worked with the film’s crew to leverage and adapt digital assets for the game engine. Photo courtesy of Disney & TM Locasfilm Ltd. Originally opened in 2019, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run quickly set a new benchmark for immersive storytelling by placing guests at the controls of the legendary Millennium Falcon . Guests became the protagonist of their own Star Wars adventure, stepping into one of three critical crew roles, each with distinct responsibilities that directly impact the outcome of the journey. Pilots steer the Falcon through tight turns and hyperspace jumps, gunners defend against incoming threats and engineers manage onboard systems and damage control. The attraction’s dynamic gameplay system responds in real time, meaning no two missions unfold exactly the same way with successes and mistakes alike shaping the narrative, the condition of the ship, and the final score. For information: Disney Unreal Engine 5 Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Images courtesy of Disney. More theme park case studies >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Innovative tools help to make NASCAR manufacturing of parts faster, more efficient, and of higher quality. How NASCAR's R&D Group Optimized Its Machining Processes with Next-Level Components Innovative tools help to make NASCAR manufacturing of parts faster, more efficient, and of higher quality. Edited by Terry Persun Sports Dec 1, 2025 Lead image courtesy of Depositphoto.com . NASCAR’s Research and Development (R&D) facility relies on premium innovation to create the right solutions to manufacture next-level components ensuring speed, precision and above all, safety at all stages of development. According to Bob Duvall, Managing Director of NASCAR’s Competition Partner Program, “NASCAR teams are always looking for the best in class, and Kennametal aligns perfectly with that standard.” Behind every racecar, there's a team of dedicated professionals ensuring that each component is machined to perfection. This involves using reliable tooling solutions in a prototyping environment where parts need to be designed, programmed, and manufactured within tight tolerances—and tight deadlines. Increasing Material Removal Rates Recently, NASCAR upgraded its CNC machinery to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. To fully leverage this new technology, Hank Fowler, NASCAR’s Manager of Manufacturing turned to Kennametal which has been instrumental in optimizing NASCAR’s machining processes. “Upgrading our machines has significantly sped up my cutting processes,” said Fowler. “With the addition of flood coolant and Kennametal tools, I’ve been able to increase my material removal rates as well as improve surface finishes and reduce the need for post-processing operations like deburring.” Image courtesy of Kennametal. Fowler also mentions that once he has a part number, he speaks with his rep for additional insight as to whether or not a better option may be available. Shipping tools on time is also critical for success on timely projects. For example, when Fowler was working on a manual turning job that had a .094” groove in chromoly steel, he made a simple phone call and was able to get the tool holder and inserts on time to deliver parts. This reliability is essential for NASCAR’s fast-paced manufacturing needs, where even a slight delay can impact testing and development schedules. As part of NASCAR’s R&D group, Fowler and his team handle a wide variety of tasks. Their most common machining projects include creating inspection tools for their competition group and fixturing for various types of testing within the R&D team. Recently, the team worked on an inspection tool made with 303 stainless steel which featured a tight tolerance slot. In the past, they would have been nervous about this job, but after ordering a 3/16” HARVI™ I TE, they completed the task effortlessly. Kennametal's HARVI I TE high-performance solid end mills are designed with an innovative twisted end face that allows for ultra-aggressive cutting capabilities while also promoting stability in any type of cut. It also offers a number of proprietary features such as a precision faceted eccentric relief reducing vibrations and friction for excellent cutting conditions in multiple materials, and an innovative flute design with chip gashes within the flutes to reduce cutting forces, promote tool cooling and support efficient chip evacuation. The HARVI I TE design also features asymmetrical divided flutes and a variable helix, which enables vibration dampening even at the highest feed rates. Image courtesy of Kennametal. The partnership between NASCAR and Kennametal is a perfect example of how precision tooling can be successful in high-stakes environments. With Kennametal’s reliable and versatile tools, the R&D team can meet the demanding requirements of NASCAR’s manufacturing processes. For more information: Kennametal HARVI I TE NASCAR Read more about racing >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Truss systems used for public events require the right fastener and interface components to withstand shock, vibration, and the high shear values needed for public safety. Coiled Pins Prove More Reliable for Stage Event Truss Systems Truss systems used for public events require the right fastener and interface components to withstand shock, vibration, and the high shear values needed for public safety. Stage Events Aug 13, 2025 Frames for truss systems designed to support stadium lighting, sound equipment, and even bleacher seating systems are often composed of extruded aluminum tubing and solid or tubular couplers. Considerable liability surrounds the use of these systems for public events, and the interface between these components becomes crucial to the integrity of the system. The fastener and its interface with the truss system becomes extremely critical as they are often subjected to shock, vibration, and high shear values when equipment is mounted to the trusses, or while audience members are seated during an event. A top manufacturer of truss systems consulted SPIROL about their needs for an existing design that was comprised of one tubular structural member and one solid male member that slid inside the tubular extrusion and was cross-pinned with two high carbon steel Slotted Pins to hold the coupler to the frame. During installation, the Slotted Pin was difficult to install and would often damage the expensive, yet relatively soft, aluminum frame. Once the hole was deformed, the manufacturer noted instances where the pin would begin to walk out of the hole over time, particularly in permanent installations. This was also noted in mobile systems if subjected to extreme loading. In some instances, the company noticed that the Slotted Pin had stress cracks located 180 degrees from the slot. In extreme weather conditions, the high carbon steel pin was also prone to corrosion. With a lack of options, the manufacturer had investigated implementation of an expensive machined Solid Pin with a secondary retention feature of a Cotter Pin. SPIROL was asked to evaluate the application and ultimately recommend the most robust and cost-effective solution for this incredibly demanding application. SPIROL’s Coiled Spring Pin; photo courtesy of SPIROL. SPIROL’s engineering team determined that 420 stainless steel coiled pins could act as a high-performance alternative to the Slotted Pins being used. Since the Coiled Pin does not need to be aligned in the shear plane like a Slotted Pin, this eliminates the potential of failure due to pin orientation in the hole. Since Coiled Pins remain flexible in the application after installation, they are able to absorb dynamic loading rather than transferring it into the host—which can cause deformation. This reduction in deformation increased the life of the structure, and reduced the potential of the holes opening up to the extent that the pin would eventually fall out. Since a 420 stainless steel Coiled Pin is heat treated, its shear value exceeds that of a machined low carbon steel Solid Pin. Complexity of the assembly was kept to one component rather than two, as proposed with the Solid Pin and Cotter Pin solution; thus saving time during set-up and tear down as well as the task of managing multiple components. By using 420 series stainless steel, the manufacturer would also achieve the necessary corrosion resistance, which would ultimately yield more reliable performance over the life of the structure. An added bonus to the Coiled Pin solution was that no adjustment to the hole size would be required to transition from the Slotted Pin to the Coiled Pin. This benefit extended beyond the manufacturer to their customers that already had truss systems in service throughout the country. Implementation of the Coiled Pin ultimately met all of the manufacturer’s performance and commercial requirements and significantly increased the integrity of the assembly. For more information: SPIROL SPIROL Coiled Spring Pins Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Welcome to our series on how companies solve customer challenges through creative innovation. We spoke with Nordson EFD about how they lead a customer through the design process while meeting all of their needs, wants, and specifications. When Challenges Lead to Innovation: How Nordson EFD Delivers Custom Flexibility While Using Off-the-Shelf Products Welcome to our series on how companies solve customer challenges through creative innovation. We spoke with Nordson EFD about how they lead a customer through the design process while meeting all of their needs, wants, and specifications. EE in Conversation with Anthony Buzzerio from Nordson EFD Innovation Apr 28, 2026 Cool Stuff Welcome to Entertainment Engineering magazine’s series where we ask companies to explain their approach to solving customer problems. We recognize the value of transferring technology and design innovations from one industry to another and believe that it all starts with those initial conversations. Here’s how Nordson EFD works with its customers. About Nordson EFD: Nordson EFD designs and manufactures precision fluid dispensing systems for benchtop and automated assembly lines. By enabling manufacturers to accurately apply the same amount of assembly fluid to every part, every time, EFD helps customers improve process control and throughput. In addition to producing high-quality fluid packaging syringe and cartridge systems, the company is also a leading formulator of specialty solder pastes for dispensing and printing applications. Nordson EFD is at the forefront of introducing Industry 4.0 efficiencies to the marketplace, adding a new level of control and connectivity to its micro-dispensing solutions. Serving a wide variety of industries for more than 60 years, Nordson EFD has worldwide offices, application laboratories and technical support staff. Manufacturers partner with Nordson EFD because we offer consistent precision fluid dispensing plus laboratory rigor to ensure that assembly challenges are resolved before production starts. From R&D to prototyping to production, the Nordson advantage enables you to focus on what really matters: creating impactful technologies for the people who need them. For this series, we spoke with Anthony Buzzerio, an Application/Systems Engineer II at Nordson EFD. He has 4.5 years in the fluid dispensing industry. Buzzerio holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Roger Williams University of Bristol, RI. Nordson EFD vision-guided GV Series automated fluid dispensing gantry robots equipped with PICO Nexµs ™ jetting systems at the forefront of introducing Industry 4.0 efficiencies to the marketplace. Ideas: Understanding the challenge How do customers typically approach you with a challenge, and what information do they provide? At Nordson EFD, when our customers approach us with a challenge, they can be sorted into three broad categories: PRODUCTION: The customer is experiencing an assembly problem that has a negative impact on their production line. PROCESS: The customer is starting up a new production or assembly process and is exploring options. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT: The customer is tasked with improving an existing assembly or application process, such as applying accurate, consistent amounts of adhesives, sealants, lubricants, and other assembly fluids to a substrate. Generally, in our initial conversations, the customer provides their specifications and the Nordson team asks questions that go deeper into the details of the project. A material data sheet, information about the substrate the customer plans to use, and fluid specifications are typically part of that conversation. High level production goals are also part of this dialogue, where we can get very specific about the application and list of requirements. What information would make the process smoother or more effective? The process goes much smoother and more effectively once we are provided a complete set of fluid dispensing data, assuming the data has already been collected. Since fluid dispensing is something of a specialty, specific data points are critical for us to maximize the required outcomes. We need fluid specifics from the fluid formulator. If this is an instance where a customer is looking to optimize an existing process, good photos or videos of the process are also a great way to clarify and improve effectiveness at this point in the project. Lastly, projects go more smoothly when we can arrive at realistic expectations early in the relationship. As the adage goes, not letting the perfect be the enemy of progress is a smart philosophy to adopt at the beginning of a project. As we move forward, our mission becomes iterating for improvement. At what point do you decide an application requires a unique and innovative approach? At Nordson EFD, we have a deep experience pool to draw from. We’ve been delivering precision dispense systems since the inception of modern fluid dispensing solutions in the mid to late 1960s. Thus, it is rare but not unheard of for us to encounter an application or circumstance that is unique and requires an innovative approach. That said, there are examples of a situation where a customer offers an idea and we listen to them, mull it over, and add value to the concept they have proposed. Using that 60+ years of know-how, we evaluate the application to deliver the most efficient process for the project. The laboratory rigor we apply to each new project gives us hard data to assess whether a new or innovative approach is truly required. Understanding exactly what is going on and what is needed for an application is a great tool for determining if a unique approach is needed; the customer has peace of mind knowing that Nordson EFD is part of the larger Nordson organization, and that we can leverage the combined strength of the divisions to drive a new process or combination of skill sets and technology. . . . a customer offers an idea, and we listen to them, mull it over, and add value to the concept they have proposed. Does your company have a response policy or procedure when this situation occurs? If yes, briefly explain. Using the data gleaned from this work, we test and iterate until we have determined that this application is going to require an innovative approach. Though EFD typically proposes turn-key solutions using a combination of existing off-the-shelf products, we do not hesitate to explore and innovate. We have on-going discussions with our internal market innovation and design teams to share market trends, application challenges, and bottlenecks, and bounce off ideas on how to solve them. We employ a rigorous new product development (NPD) process to identify technology and product gaps, explore and experiment engineered solutions, and launch new products covering those gaps. What determines whether a challenging project receives a “go” or “no-go” decision? At Nordson EFD, lab tests are what drive technology and process decisions. It’s purely a data-driven approach to the “go” or “no go” question. Economic constraints from a customer can sometimes halt or interrupt a project. If the budget isn’t there, it can be very difficult to optimize the manufacturing process. This is true for every organization. A “go” scenario is indicated from favorable test data and having a proof of concept to show the customer. When the testing proves out that an overall application will work, that is also a strong positive indicator that the dispense process will work as intended. The throughline across all decisions is collecting data and analyzing those results to drive the best decisions possible. Innovation: Working as Partners How do you and the customer align expectations, priorities, and desired outcomes early in the process? At Nordson EFD, we start each project with a call and conversation with the key stakeholders. At that time, we review all of the project specifications. We ask a lot of questions and perform application tests to gather information. In addition to this call, part of this process is the questionnaire the customer completes as part of the intake phase of a project. This clarifies anything that is unclear or not understood, and the conversation enables Nordson EFD engineers to expand upon the information shared in the questionnaire. The intent at this point is to minimize the time required to communicate and minimize the need to retest applications. We conduct these meetings before the customer ships the application, or directly after we receive the application and start testing it. As a matter of course, we schedule a call with our customer before every application test. We double check each of the desired goals and outcomes. During this process, we work diligently to communicate with the customer about what they need from the testing process. In a case where we are working with an automation house or machine builder, we have conversations with both these organizations and their customer to ensure that we are aligning the expectations, priorities, and desired outcomes. We double check each of the desired goals and outcomes. Which internal team disciplines (engineering, design, manufacturing, software, etc.) are usually involved, and how do they collaborate on these types of challenges? The internal team disciplines collaborating at Nordson EFD include application engineering and design engineering teams. Internally, the combined engineering team collaborates to map out and implement the best fluid dispensing solution/process for the customer. Nordson EFD does not provide custom products to customers. All the solutions are off the shelf, but the configurations are unique to the customer’s application needs. That work takes place at the East Providence laboratory and continues throughout the implementation phase at the customer’s manufacturing facility. At that time, an application engineer ensures that the dispense system is operating as intended. The application engineer also provides education and training about the dispense system. How do you turn project constraints (timeline, cost, materials, regulations) into opportunities? We address all of these concerns from the outset of the project. If the challenge is cost-based, our usual methodology is to scale the solution to the budget. Similarly, we will scale the project to expectations as well. . . . restrictions force our team to flex our minds and push through to a solution. When the hurdle is a material, timeline, or a regulation challenge, Nordson EFD is able to put our unique skill set as a fluid engineering resource to work for our customers. Sometimes that means a stopgap solution; oftentimes mining our experience yields an answer. To answer the question regarding regulation constraints, typically during the phase of the project where the customer is investigating and sourcing a fluid dispensing solution for manufacturing, the regulatory requirements are fully managed already. To clarify, the regulatory requirements are usually managed by material handling sheets, and the documentation is provided as part of the project initiation process. What typically pushes your team to think more creatively during these projects? Being blocked — that is, struggling to determine why things aren’t working as expected — is what pushes the team at Nordson EFD to think creatively. There’s a saying that “restrictions breed creativity.” Working in the Nordson EFD applications lab, those restrictions force our team to flex our minds and push through to a solution. Creativity comes as a result of needing to push past a problem. The challenge could be a system’s integration, or a problem with a part. We identify the blocker and work to push past it. Fortunately for us, these situations are rare because we have a deep set of experience to draw from learned from our 60+ years of solving difficult engineering challenges. Thus, it is rare but not unheard of for us to encounter an application or circumstance that is unique and requires creativity to resolve. What part does AI play in your team’s approach or decision-making during challenging projects? AI tools, at this point, seldom result in a creative approach because they have been trained on projects that already have a solution. Therefore, AI tools are not widely used by the Nordson EFD organization. Execution: Mindset and Lessons Learned How do you and the customer maintain strong communications and alignment as the project evolves? In order to ensure that we are aligned and communicating, once a project is in motion we sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with our customer. This protects both parties and fosters an atmosphere of clear communication and trust. Every project has a schedule of calls and virtual meetings. As part of the agreed deliverables, we update our clients with photos and videos of progress being made on their system. In addition, reports and data sets are shared with the customer. Oftentimes a customer wants to visit our laboratories in person. This might be to witness the testing, or to review the dispense system and process for their application. Additionally, we frequently offer in-house demonstrations of a process for our customers. By establishing the key deliverables and working in a professional manner to achieve them, Nordson EFD’s customers are assured of a highly responsive team of experts focused on providing clear communication from start to installation. What aspect of challenging projects requires the most resilience from your team, and how do you maintain momentum when things stall or become difficult? Momentum can be lost whenever a project encounters a challenge — or worse, multiple challenges that grind the effort to a halt. At Nordson EFD there are three kinds of challenges that require resilience to persevere: Scope change Expectations change Budget change Patience must be exercised on any purchase order that suddenly develops a long timeline. Maintaining communication with the customer during the difficulties isn’t easy in these cases but is essential for moving forward, and something we take seriously by facing it head-on. The focus shifts to adapting to a solution based on the project changes. The team’s resilience comes into play when the work becomes about staying on target and leaning in when the situation doesn’t look great. Specifically, at Nordson EFD we leverage our team and use our fluid process expertise to push through when things stall or become difficult. From your perspective, what makes a customer an effective innovation partner when it comes to project execution? Making a customer an effective innovation partner comes down to two things: clearly communicated expectations and clear project process documentation. Our best outcomes begin with customers that start with Nordson EFD early in the development phase. This is the optimal time to work together because this is a point when we are most open to change, and before a process or equipment has been purchased or implemented. Flexibility is important early in a project. Trusting each other’s mutual expertise — you know your process and we know our fluid dispensing equipment — is important for an effective assembly project. Clients that train and upskill their staff and are proactive about training their operators get the most benefit from their investment. When an organization is ready to educate their workforce about using the dispense equipment, we are confident that this is a strong partnership. Clients that train and upskill their staff and are proactive about training their operators get the most benefit from their investment. Thoughtful investments in training and maintenance drives good outcomes; last, but certainly not least, budgeting for replacing high wear parts to prevent downtime is a hallmark of our most effective partners. What is the most important mindset your team brings to ensure a successful project outcome? Nordson EFD is always customer focused. A successful project is inevitably the result of keeping our customers at the front of our mind. And, as we’ve been saying throughout this piece, the best outcomes are the result of communication, communication, communication. *Images courtesy of Nordson EFD. Lead image: Nordson EFD designs and manufactures precision fluid dispensing systems for benchtop and automated assembly lines. For information: Nordson EFD Assembly Challenges LinkedIn Read more about Nordson EFD >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The increase in the number of EVs on the road has also increased the demand for more charging stations, which require high-end components to keep them running cool. Pump Technology Keeps EV Charging Stations Cool The increase in the number of EVs on the road has also increased the demand for more charging stations, which require high-end components to keep them running cool. KNF Cool Stuff Jul 9, 2025 Sports The world has become more environmentally conscious, and emissions regulations are becoming stricter, making electric vehicles (EVs) increasingly popular. As the demand for newer, better EVs increases, so too does the demand for the charging stations that are necessary for keeping EVs powered and operational. These stations will need to be installed both commercially and residentially as more drivers move to EVs. Also from EE: Hydraulic Gimbal Aids Iron Man’s Motion Control Because charging stations output so much electricity, they also generate substantial amounts of heat. There are three different levels of chargers, with levels one and two available for both public and private use and level three available for public use only. The level three DC Fast Chargers (DCFCs) can output up to 500 A and 350 kW. Even more powerful chargers are on the horizon, which could be capable of outputting more than 400 kW and charging a vehicle to 200-mile range in less than eight minutes. How Cooling Systems Work Liquid cooling works by pumping a fluid, called coolant, through pipes or tubes, absorbing heat and dissipating it away from critical components. This reduces the temperature of those critical components, including capacitors, inductors, and control circuits, leading to more efficient charging and longer product life. The coolant is typically water mixed with glycol to prevent freezing or boiling. High quality liquid pumps are essential for effective liquid cooling operations. Constant and consistent flow is required for these systems to function properly. This ensures heat is being adequately transferred away from the element while also keeping the coolant at an appropriate temperature. Reliability is also key, as leaked coolant could result in catastrophic equipment damage. Photo from Depositphotos.com Liquid Pump Experts KNF has extensive experience creating state-of-the-art diaphragm liquid pumps for a variety of OEM and process industry applications. These pumps are self-priming and dry run safe, with flow rates ranging from 0.018 to 12.4 l/min and pressures up to 16 bar (rel.). KNF pumps are suitable for use with a variety of liquids, including abrasive and corrosive media and offer clean and reliable operation. Because of this, KNF pumps are trusted in some of the most demanding applications. In addition to offering a wide range of liquid pump series, KNF also provides custom options for all liquid diaphragm pumps. Pump heads, valves, and diaphragms are all available in various materials, while hydraulic and electrical connections can also be customized. Several motor options are available. KNF’s modular design approach allows pumps to be tailored to specific applications and ensures customer needs will be met. Cooling is Critical More power is required for EV chargers to provide faster charging. However, more power also leads to more heat generated. This makes cooling, specifically liquid cooling, an essential part of their operations. This is especially true in the larger, publicly available fast chargers, which need to output huge amounts of power to charge vehicles quickly and effectively. Faster charging is important for increased adoption of EVs, but it is also directly correlated to excess heat generation. Many readily available cooling systems are unable to adequately cool EV chargers quickly or efficiently enough, leading to slower charging speeds, performance issues, and increased maintenance costs. Cooling is also important in EV charging station cables, which are required to transport large amounts of energy very quickly. Reaching adequate charging speeds requires cables that are capable of doing so, often resulting in large, bulky cables that can be difficult to maintain. Liquid cooled cables allow for faster charging and better performance while also being easier to handle. A New Era for EVs The latest data from the International Energy Agency estimates there are more than 40 million EVs on the road worldwide, an increase from about 26 million in 2022. Sales of electric vehicles are climbing worldwide, increasing substantially in North America, Europe, Asia and other parts of the world. Estimates vary, but predictions for percentage of global vehicle sales for EVs by 2030 are as high 86 percent. With this relatively new technology rapidly gaining in popularity, efficient and safe charging stations will be a necessity. For more information: KNF's Website Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Touch screen displays with an optical bond are designed to offer an improved viewing angle. Unique Optically Bonded Touch Display Improves Viewing Experience Touch screen displays with an optical bond are designed to offer an improved viewing angle. By Jim Spadaccini, Founder & Creative Director, Ideum Museums Aug 26, 2025 Cool Stuff Ideum has recently been integrating optically bonded 55-inch touch displays into our products. This includes optically bonded versions of the our popular Platform II and Drafting II touch tables, as well as their Presenter and Inline models—and their Tasting Table. Touch screen displays are comprised of a monitor and a touch sensor. In large-format displays, these components are usually separated by a small air gap. This is fine for many (even most) displays and configurations, but there are some instances where optical bonding improves the quality of the touch display. In this process, a clear adhesive is used between the touch sensor and the monitor, bonding the two components together. But what does this mean to the user? All photos courtesy of Ideum. Removing the air gap and replacing it with a transparent adhesive has several advantages. The first is that the display appears to be visibly brighter; this is due to removing any reflection that might occur from the surface glass. In addition, the viewing angle of the display is greatly improved since the display and sensor glass are effectively one, bonded unit. There is no reflected light off the back of the sensor glass, making the integrated touch display brighter and clearer. All photos courtesy of Ideum. Bonded units don’t have issues with parallax, which is the perceived gap between the touch sensor and the display, again because they are bonded together. We have focused on the 55-inch model (and soon the 65-inch model) because they are the most popular, but also because this gap can be noticeable, and closing it improves the viewing quality of the display. Optical Bonding Benefits We’ve always taken pride in creating touch screen tables and displays that are practically indestructible. Our all-aluminum frames and chassis, and tempered glass, provide exceptional security and durability. Optically bonded displays are even stronger than their air-gapped counterparts! This makes sense as the clear adhesive bonds the display and sensor together. Optical bonding also makes it impossible to introduce dust or other particulate matter between the layers, making it perfect for challenging environments. The bonded touch display is also more resistant to spills (that’s why we use it for the Tasting Table). All in all, it is a superior product; the only downsides are that the manufacturing method is more involved and expensive, and the process inherently means that any flaws in the display or the sensor compromise the entire assembly. Air-gapped touch displays allow you to replace damaged components more easily, since those parts remain separate. Bonding is forever. Display Case Design Changes We’ve also improved the display’s case by creating a design that appears slimmer. Our patented manufacturing process for displays uses extruded aluminum as the frame making it appear sleeker and smoother. To create corners that don’t have fasteners, we designed 3D-printed metal corners that can be fastened to the extruded aluminum frames from the inside. The new design provides a better-looking profile and differentiates this new model from its predecessors. All photos courtesy of Ideum. This Fall, we will be announcing all of the available optically bonded models. They will be referred to as the Plus Series, since they appear across all of our offerings, from displays to various touch table formats. We will continue to offer all of our models, so the Plus Series will simply expand our offerings for our customers. For more information: Ideum Platform II Display Touch Screen Displays Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

An insightful dialogue about what goes into designing something new and how it relates to other projects. WATCH: One-on-One with Chris Porter of igus An insightful dialogue about what goes into designing something new and how it relates to other projects. Videos Aug 11, 2025 Theme Parks In a casual conversation with the Industry Manager for Stage & Amusement in Central Florida for igus, Inc., Entertainment Engineering explores how closely designers get to their projects, how they start the process of designing something new, and how they are always working on several projects in several different industries at the same time. In this video, we show how creativity and inspiration can come from anywhere and how easily it can reshape a solution to fit a specific application. Whether working with off-the-shelf components or thinking up a completely off-the-charts custom approach, it’s all about brining your experience as well as an open mind to the table. Note to our audience: Technology Transfer DIY Stories Entertainment Engineering Magazine is looking for stories about your home projects where you take the technological experience you have at work and apply it to your home projects. I know engineers in aerospace who have rebuilt their lawn mowers, engineers in medical devices who built their own toy rocket. The spark of inspiration can come from anywhere. And once that spark is enflamed the design can morph and adapt along the way. We’re interested in your non-work-related projects. What are you designing at home, for yourself or a neighbor or relative? Is it a Halloween project? A Christmas project? Or just a backyard thing you’re working on? Here’s what we’d like to see: 1) What got you thinking about the project in the first place? 2) What is your background and why you thought you could tackle the project? 3) What technologies did you use (electrical, electronics, mechanical, fluid power, materials, etc.)? 4) How does the end product work and how did it do what you needed it to? 5) Answer those four questions in less than 800 words (and focus on the tech), then send us your story, some photos, and even a video if you have one. We can’t publish every story, but we can choose a few a month to publish. If you want to read an example, check this out: You can reach us at: Contact@EntertainmentEngineeringMagazine.com Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next