A fast-growing electric vehicle infrastructure provider required compact, high-speed components for fluid handling within the power electronics enclosure of next-generation EV chargers. Full Solution Custom Assembly Simplifies EV Charging A fast-growing electric vehicle infrastructure provider required compact, high-speed components for fluid handling within the power electronics enclosure of next-generation EV chargers. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Apr 13, 2026 Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is a critical aspect for bringing EV adoption online. Key requirements include reducing range anxiety among users and supporting local and national environmental goals. When an EV infrastructure provider approached Dings Motion, they had already sourced a magnetic gearhead pump from a manufacturer overseas, intending to pair it with a NEMA 24 BLDC (brushless DC) motor. However, they encountered persistent communications issues, which included delays in technical support that hindered their ability to finalize the assembly and move forward with prototyping and testing prior to production. Image courtesy of Dings Motion The complexity of integrating the pump with the motor presented additional engineering and supply chain headaches. What they needed was a partner that could overcome these initial roadblocks as well as one that could provide a custom product of high quality. The Dings Motion engineering team quickly identified an opportunity to streamline the development process by leveraging its strong supplier relationships to obtain answers to the client’s technical questions within days—compared to the months they had previously waited. To further reduce complexity, a turnkey solution was developed, sourcing the pump on the client’s behalf, assembling it to a Dings BLDC motor in-house, and delivering a fully integrated drive subsystem. This eliminated the need for the client to manage cross-continental component sourcing as well as system integration. Image courtesy of Dings Motion The partnership between Dings Motion and their EV infrastructure client resulted in a customized motor and gear pump subassembly that matched the client’s performance specifications. Dings’ engineers were able to select from the company’s broad range of low-cost, customized BLDC motor solutions and match them with the right amplifier for the application. The advantages of brushless DC motors include speed regulation, higher power density, and overload capacity. The company produces NEMA sizes from 17 to 34 and with three different lengths per size. The final subsystem was fully compatible with Dings’ open-loop BLDC motor driver networked through RS485. Image courtesy of Dings Motion The plug-and-play solution significantly simplified the client’s prototyping and testing process. By delivering a fully assembled subsystem, the client’s R&D process was accelerated, which greatly eliminated the pain points of overseas coordination. While the project is ongoing, early feedback indicates that the client has shortened their development timeline and minimized integration risks by sourcing a full solution rather than individual components and having to assemble and test them in-house. For more information: Dings Motion BLDC Motors Read more EV case studies >>> Main image from Depositphoto.com. Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

In NASA’s Artemis campaign, Orion is the only spacecraft capable of taking humans from Earth to lunar orbit. Docking is a dance between precision and timing. The Autonomous Choreography Behind Docking Orion In NASA’s Artemis campaign, Orion is the only spacecraft capable of taking humans from Earth to lunar orbit. Docking is a dance between precision and timing. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Mar 9, 2026 Orion’s unique design allows it to seamlessly maneuver and perform safe and precise docking with different types of spacecraft, such as SpaceX’s Starship human landing system, Blue Origin’s lander, or even other vehicles if needed, including habitats and propulsion systems. This capability is crucial for enabling the transportation of crew and cargo between different spacecraft, as well as for facilitating the assembly and servicing of spacecraft in deep space. Images courtesy of Lockheed Martin. According to Harvey Mamich, Orion guidance navigation and control manager at Lockheed Martin, “Docking is like a choreographed dance of timing to make everything work. If Orion or the other vehicle drifts from its position, Orion has to readjust based on a variety of information, figure out where both vehicles are located, and conduct thruster burns to get back in the right spot. Everything must work together seamlessly and autonomously.” The activity of a spacecraft approaching, interacting, and connecting to another spacecraft is known as Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking (RPOD), and Lockheed Martin is working with NASA to develop and test the latest RPOD generation for Orion. Images courtesy of Lockheed Martin. RPOD systems are used on an array of spacecraft and incorporate a combination of sensors, cameras, and computers to guide the vehicle into the correct docking position. Software and hardware components work together to provide real-time data on the spacecraft's position, velocity, and attitude. Orion’s RPOD systems utilize Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology, which generates high-resolution maps of the docking environment. This enables the system to navigate the spacecraft with greater precision and accuracy. LiDAR provides the position information of the target vehicle, and as Orion goes through the entire docking procedure from a far distance out down to the two vehicles touching, LiDAR provides locational data while making continual automatic corrections to ensure the two spacecraft are docked perfectly. Where earlier docking systems relied on manual operation with limited automation, Orion's RPOD system incorporates LiDAR targeting retroreflectors to enable automated docking with a high degree of precision. The automated docking process—controlled by the LiDAR and resident software in the system—drives the thrusters to maneuver the Orion into place. For safety, an optional manual override can be activated by crew members if necessary. Images courtesy of Lockheed Martin. Testing Using Drones and Robots Testing and simulation of Orion's RPOD system were recently conducted at Lockheed Martin’s Space Operations Simulation Center (SOSC) in Denver—a testing facility where engineers can replicate the operational conditions of space—as well as at large open-field ranges at Lockheed Martin’s Santa Cruz, CA facility. Engineers at Lockheed Martin plan for different scenarios that Orion and the Artemis crew will encounter during a variety of missions, then use these facilities to put the RPOD system through a rigorous test regiment. For example, custom-built drones outfitted with 3D-printed parts simulated the separation distance of multiple target reflectors—think moving targets at a shooting range—near a docking port. Orion’s RPOD LiDAR system was deployed in a fixed trailer on the coast, tracking the motion of the moving drones out over the Pacific Ocean. The drones were flown in a variety of approach paths toward the trailer, ranging from 10 meters to further than one kilometer, at varying speeds and angles similar to how Orion would approach another spacecraft. This enabled the team to simulate rendezvous approach tracking, holds, and unexpected conditions. The second part of the RPOD testing incorporated the cameras and was performed at the SOSC using its large 50-foot-tall robot running along a 180-foot-long track. These tests were designed to fine tune the limits of the system’s performance and to evaluate its ability to maintain accuracy down to centimeters in distance. The LiDAR’s field of view is typically narrower at close range, which makes it more sensitive to misalignment. Orion is poised to undertake a series of critical missions in support of NASA’s Artemis program. The spacecraft is scheduled to play a key role in the Artemis III mission, slated for launch in 2027, which will dock with the lander while in orbit around the Earth. This sets up a mission to land astronauts on the surface of the Moon in 2028. With the Moon in its sights and Mars in the near future, Orion—carrying humans and docking with a variety of vehicles—will be a critical element of NASA’s Moon to Mars efforts. This just in: NASA recently announced that it is increasing the cadence of missions under the Artemis program to achieve the national objective of returning American astronauts to the Moon and establishing an enduring presence. This includes standardizing vehicle configuration, adding an additional mission in 2027, and undertaking at least one surface landing every year thereafter. For information: Lockheed Martin Human Landing System Artemis Missions NASA’s latest news Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The launch of Ninja Gaiden 4 set a new Guinness World Record. Fusing Technology and Adrenaline as Largest Video Display Flies Over Miami The launch of Ninja Gaiden 4 set a new Guinness World Record. EE Staff Mini Story Feb 24, 2026 Games Two helicopters were used to fly over Miami in a celebration launch of Ninja Gaiden 4. One copter carried a 26-foot-wide screen display while the other carried Team Ninja Community Manager, Emmanuel “Master” Rodriguez and diamond-certified recording artist Swae Lee. Not only did the event set a new Guinness World Record for the largest video game display flown by helicopter, but it also provided a full-action display of the game for thousands to witness. The live streaming connection between the display and player was facilitated using advanced sports broadcasting technology. Read the whole story here >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Advanced simulator allows vehicle developers to accurately experience the noise and vibration at every driver touch point to meet brand and customer expectations before building the first prototype. Using Sound and Vibration Simulation for Vehicle Development Advanced simulator allows vehicle developers to accurately experience the noise and vibration at every driver touch point to meet brand and customer expectations before building the first prototype. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Apr 10, 2026 Vehicle comfort, quality, character, refinement, and brand DNA are all communicated and perceived through sound and vibration. When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, consciously or not, people form opinions and make decisions based on sound and vibration while test driving. This is why it is critical to get these vehicle characteristics right the first time—or risk poor perception with customers and poor performance in the marketplace. Like any other aspect of vehicle development, there are many ways to measure, analyze, and predict noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance. However, unlike many attributes, NVH is not easily explained, understood or communicated simply through plots, graphs, numbers, and data. Images courtesy of VI-grade. For many NVH phenomena, vibration is a key element, and both sound and vibration need to be assessed at the same time—and at accurate levels—to make a correct evaluation and decision about the acoustic and tactile character of a vehicle. The VI-grade COMPACT NVH Simulator helps to make this happen before prototyping even starts. Images courtesy of VI-grade. The Simulator To achieve an exceptionally stiff structure that is capable of delivering controlled and accurate vibration to the evaluator, the NVH Simulator incorporates carbon fiber materials extensively, including in the steering wheel. This provides extremely low mass and high stiffness. It has no rim modes below 200 Hz. Images courtesy of VI-grade. Seven independent inputs deliver vibration to the driver through the seat, steering wheel, and floor pan. This design maximizes the isolation of the seven distinct axes of vibration from one another, allowing for high accuracy and real-time driver-in-the-loop simulation. Embedded accelerometers are used for each axis of vibration to enable easy calibration and real-time feedback and monitoring capabilities of vibration levels. Using the simulator, customers can get vibration and sound results of CAE models and hybrid CAE/Test-based models. Real-time experiences include powertrain vibration and sound for such operations as idle, wide-open throttle, cylinder deactivation, start/stop, and more. Road interactions include smooth road, rough road, and impact events providing both vibration and sound. Users can even complete A/B comparisons between vehicles or designs with instant switching. When the COMPACT NVH Simulator is coupled with VI-NVHSim Software it brings NVH virtual prototypes to life. The software is designed to make it easy to understand and evaluate NVH data and to make decisions on NVH design iterations. Images courtesy of VI-grade. The simulator is available with either an immersive visual system, which includes a projector and large curved screen, or a space-saving ultra-wide curved display mounted on top of the simulator nose. A steering wheel with paddle shifters, pedals, a console-mounted shifter, dash screen, and console-mounted touchscreen enable driver input, interaction, and feedback. For more information: VI-grade VI-NVHSim HBK Read more about cars >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

How technology and performance combine to create expressive storytelling and audience immersion. Groundbreaking Dance Performance Uses Motion Capture, Aerial Drones, and Visual Effects How technology and performance combine to create expressive storytelling and audience immersion. Jeff Gunderson Stage Events Nov 11, 2025 The Netherlands-based contemporary dance company, Another Kind of Blue (AKOB), has received widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking performances that explore the relationships between humans and technology. Founded by visionary choreographer David Middendorp, the company not only uses technology as a subject of exploration but also as a dynamic tool for expressive storytelling. "I've always been fascinated by the intersection of culture and technology," said Middendorp. "People often perceive them as separate, but I firmly believe they are closely related. Technological innovations are often born from someone's dreams. For instance, airplanes would never have been invented without the dream of flying. And I believe technology plays a significant role in shaping human nature. It contributes to our sense of identity." Photo by Kim Vos Fotografie, courtesy of Some Kind of Blue and OptiTrack. Middendorp talent caught the attention of "America's Got Talent," where his choreographed performances reached the finals. Encouraged by the experience, Middendorp decided to establish AKOB. Several productions soon followed. AKOB's artistic live dance performances feature imaginative uses of motion capture (mocap) technology, aerial drones, digital elements, and real-time visual effects and animations, captivating audiences with experiences that are both mesmerizing and thought provoking. Photo by Kim Vos Fotografie, courtesy of Some Kind of Blue and OptiTrack. Discovering Motion Capture Middendorp's exploration of aerial drones stemmed from his desire to examine the concept of free will. The early stages of the concept involved someone remotely controlling a single drone from the wings. Then, the idea evolved into a swarm of drones that would form into certain shapes. However, 10 to 20 people operating drones in synchronized patterns proved impossible. “We started to search for solutions," Middendorp said. "One idea was to build our own localization system. Then, as we were looking at other possibilities, we discovered OptiTrack.” Middendorp purchased his first eight OptiTrack cameras early in his explorations and has slowly been accumulating more. Today, AKOB has 22 OptiTrack mocap cameras—16 Primeˣ 13 cameras and 7 Primeˣ 22 cameras. The configuration provides real-time, low latency tracking that optimizes accuracy across capture areas. Photo courtesy of OptiTrack. As Middendorp became more proficient with the mocap system, his team began using it to track dancers on stage wearing OptiTrack mocap suits. Using positional data, the dancers' movements were translated into commands for controlling the drones in real-time. The subsequent performance, “Airman,” featured 12 drones, some flying pre-determined paths, and others programmed to respond to the dancers’ movements. According to Middendorp, “With OptiTrack, we can track drones, dancers, and other elements. Another advantage is that the infrared cameras work in low-light conditions, which is crucial since we often darken the stage to create a specific ambiance.” Imaginative Uses Another idea conceived by Middendorp was to create a duet that explored interactions between dancers and elements of physics. He envisioned a powerful way to visualize physics through sound waves, and particularly an effect known as Chladni patterns. Named after 18th-century German physicist and musician Ernst Chladni, these intricate patterns emerge when a flat surface with a sprinkling of sand (or similar substance) vibrates at specific sound wave frequencies, causing the sand to move and gather at certain locations on the surface. Rather than making the entire stage shake, he chose to replicate the sand motion through simulation, leading to the development of a dynamic virtual sand representation complete with the ability to form Chladni patterns on a stage. However, for live performances, he needed to depict a convincing engagement between dancers and the simulated sand. OptiTrack was able to help him with a solution. In the performance, “Wave”" virtual sand is projected onto the stage, and dancers, donning OptiTrack mocap suits, are tracked with precision using the OptiTrack system. Similar to the way drones can be controlled, OptiTrack allows the dancers' movements to manipulate the virtual sand in real-time. The result is an immersive presentation where the interplay between the dancers and the simulated sand appears remarkably true-to-life. Forging Into New Dimensions The most recent production from AKOB originated from what Middendorp calls, “a fantasy.” He said, “What if you could visit people that aren't here anymore? Maybe they passed away or maybe they just left. But what if there was a virtual space where you could still interact with them? I wanted to use this concept to create a choreography.” His piece, “Missing” (part of the new full-length performance “Digital Twin”), transports audiences into a near future scenario where a dancer engages in a duet with the digital version of someone who is no longer physically here but continues to exist in an alternate reality. The performance offers a profound insight into the possibility of leaving a digital version of ourselves for our loved ones. To create this experience, Middendorp uses a “virtual mirror” on stage comprised of a very large display that rotates during the performance, seamlessly reflecting both virtual and real objects. Using OptiTrack, the hands of dancers on stage are closely tracked, translating gestures into movements performed by digital counterparts in the mirror. Middendorp said, “OptiTrack serves a critical role in the performance for making the display function like a true mirror.” AKOB continues to delve into new realms of creative possibilities, pushing boundaries of contemporary dance, while OptiTrack provides multiple tracking solutions in one system. “I am always learning new things about the system and what it can do. If I have a spare moment, I sometimes just play with it, which is very useful for developing new ideas,” Middendorp said. For more information: OptiTrack OptiTrack Cameras OptiTrack Mocap Software Another Kind of Blue Read more about stage performances >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

What happens when you get a team of engineers and technologists together to see if they can recreate devices only found in comics, television shows, and in superhero films? Bringing The Mandalorian's Gadgets to Life What happens when you get a team of engineers and technologists together to see if they can recreate devices only found in comics, television shows, and in superhero films? Edited by Terry Persun Film and TV Aug 4, 2026 In Chapter Six of The Hacklorian series, Hacksmith Industries focuses on designing and fabricating Mando’s grappling hook winch, based on the Disney+ show, The Mandalorian . As many engineers know, the crew at Hacksmith Industries has been designing and building all types of functioning prototypes of devices originally created in comics, movies, and video games, such as Captain America’s shield, Thor’s Hammer, Star Wars light saber, the entire Mandalorian suit and other projects. Their whole idea is to “make it real” and they’ve done an inspiring job at doing just that. Like any designs of something truly innovative there are failures and successes. The greatest thing about The Hacklorian series as well as their other videos is that the team doesn’t give up. You get to experience not only the failures but an explanation as to what their fix is. Every company that they partner with has to sign up for a similar commitment. When the Hacksmith team decided to prototype the world’s fastest grappling hook winch, made famous on The Mandalorian series, they partnered with Protolabs. Using direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), Protolabs was able to 3D print the metal revolving spool which controls the rope connected to the grappling hook. The winch had to easily lift as much as 200 lbs, which would be a testament to the durability and strength of metal 3D-printed parts. DMLS is an industrial metal 3D printing process that builds fully functional metal prototypes as well as production parts depending on the application. This technology is typically used when a company requires production-grade parts or functional parts for end-use. Because DMLS uses 3D printing technologies the machines are able to create complex geometries, and often reduce the number of metal components in an assembly. Protolabs services its customers with multiple 3D printing technologies for a wide variety of applications across all industries. When accuracy and repeatability are needed, Protolabs can select the right system for the required outcome. In addition, the company is able to provide design suggestions to help improve part manufacturability, enhance cosmetic appearance, and reduce overall production time. For the Hacksmith Industries application, Protolabs was able to provide fast turnarounds within the rigid specifications the application required. Through their YouTube channel, Hacksmith Industries aims to inspire the next generation to consider STEM fields. Protolabs was excited to play a role in that mission. *Images courtesy of Disney, sourced from MovieStillsdb. For information: Protolabs Hacksmith Industries Read more about film and TV >>> 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

MIT engineers recently developed a method to grow artificial muscle tissue that twitches and flexes in multiple coordinated directions.  Artificial Muscle Flexes in Multiple Directions MIT engineers recently developed a method to grow artificial muscle tissue that twitches and flexes in multiple coordinated directions. Edited by EE Staff Mini Story Dec 2, 2025 In recent years, scientists and engineers have looked to muscles as potential actuators for “biohybrid” robots that could squirm and wiggle through spaces where traditional machines cannot. For the most part, however, researchers have only been able to fabricate artificial muscle that pulls in one direction, limiting any robot’s range of motion. MIT engineers recently developed a method to grow artificial muscle tissue that twitches and flexes in multiple coordinated directions. MIT researchers fabricated an artificial iris using a new “stamping” approach they developed. First, they 3D-printed a small, handheld stamp patterned with microscopic grooves, each as small as a single cell. Then they pressed the stamp into a soft hydrogel and seeded the resulting grooves with real muscle cells. The cells grew along these grooves within the hydrogel, forming fibers. When the researchers stimulated the fibers, the muscle contracted in multiple directions, following the fibers’ orientation. “With the iris design, we believe we have demonstrated the first skeletal muscle-powered robot that generates force in more than one direction,” said Ritu Raman, the Eugene Bell Career Development Professor of Tissue Engineering in MIT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering. Get all the details in this fascinating article written by Jennifer Chu for MIT News. You can find the entire piece here. *Image courtesy of the researchers. Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The next generation of animatronics is face technology that is capable of providing realistic facial movements to make characters truly come to life. Let's Face It: Disney's Next Gen Animatronic Technology is Changing the Game The next generation of animatronics is face technology that is capable of providing realistic facial movements to make characters truly come to life. Edited by EE Staff Theme Parks Jan 27, 2026 Cool Stuff In exploring different technologies to use in animatronics, Disney Imagineering has provided a closer look at its Next Gen Animatronic face technology, which shows how real-time projection and calibration tools are reshaping character performance in the parks. In a new video episode of “We Call It Imagineering,” you’ll see highlights of how R&D teams are experimenting with front-projection techniques and custom software to create more expressive, lifelike characters. Start with a static shell A surprising detail in the video is how the team incorporated a completely static facial shell with absolutely no internal mechatronics for motion. Yet, the face is fully capable of showing micro-expressions through a projection system alone. Real-time front projection actually maps over the molded face shell. Skin textures and fine details are rendered through shading, which allows for transformations like scars or surface damage to be applied digitally and on-the-fly. This approach allows Imagineers to create subtle emotion and texture that traditional mechanically designed faces can't achieve. The team demonstrates how they can shift a character's look instantly—for example, by adding a cut or weathering across the face—without needing physical rework. Matching Physical and Digital Worlds In a later part of the video, the imagineering team highlights the tools used to calibrate the system. A crown fitted with AR markers sits on the figure's head. Cameras track those markers and translate their positions into the digital projection space. The calibration software was developed in-house at Walt Disney Imagineering to provide precision registration between the projection and the physical head. The goal is perfect alignment, so the character's projected expressions always sit exactly where they belong. Even small misalignments can break the illusion, so the crown helps the team fine-tune accuracy before performance testing. This is the same system used for cockpit media alignment in the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run attraction. The purpose behind this new Next Gen Animatronic face technology is simple: better emotional storytelling. By combining projected expression with physical structure, R&D teams can explore a broader emotional range and more nuanced facial movements. Although this work is still happening inside Imagineering’s mock-up spaces, it shows the direction Disney is moving—toward characters that feel more responsive, more detailed, and better at pulling you into the story. *Lead image courtesy of Walt Disney Imagineering. For more information: Disney Research Read more about animatronics >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The Large Hadron Collider is the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. Experiments use various mixtures of gasses, which requires pumps that are clean, gas-tight, and reliable. Keeping CERN's Large Hadron Collider Clean The Large Hadron Collider is the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. Experiments use various mixtures of gasses, which requires pumps that are clean, gas-tight, and reliable. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Aug 4, 2026 Aerospace Some of the most amazing discoveries concerning the composition of the universe have come from particle detectors at CERN. What is the universe made of? That’s the primary question that scientists are trying to answer. CERN is a world-leading research facility that helps scientists with this search by probing the fundamental structure of particles that make up everything around us. Buried deep underground, partly in Switzerland, partly in France, various circular and linear particle accelerators are used for experiments that have already brought several groundbreaking achievements, such as the discovery of the Higgs boson and the isolation of antimatter in the form of antihydrogen. Images courtesy of KNF. Cancelling Out Environmental Impacts To remove as many environmental impacts as possible, such as radiation, the largest particle accelerator at CERN (the Large Hadron Collider (LHC)) is located 100 meters (328 feet) underground. Its tunnel is 3.8 meters (12.5 feet) wide and nearly 27 kilometers (16.8 miles) long. In this space, particles are accelerated to just under the speed of light and collided with one another. A series of highly precise detectors record phenomena occurring during these collisions. When charged high-energy particles crash past noble-gas molecules, they leave a trail of ionization in their wake. These tiny signals can be amplified using electric fields and then measured electronically to reveal particle tracks with a high level of precision. From the results of these experiments, CERN scientists gain deeper insights into the structure of matter. The pumps that circulate specific gas mixtures through these particle detectors must be highly reliable and safeguard the gases from contamination. For this reason, CERN relies on KNF diaphragm pumps to meet these strict requirements. Images courtesy of KNF. CERN is fitted with close to 30 gas systems used to deliver just the right gas mixture to the corresponding detectors for the LHC experiments. The detector gas mixture is a sensitive medium. In it, a charge multiplication produces a signal that is then recorded and analyzed. This means that a correct and stable gas mixture composition is key to the reliable operation of each and every experiment. Gas mixtures for these particle detectors are composed of noble gases such as argon, xenon, helium, and other gases like tetrafluoromethane, tetrafluoroethane, sulfur hexafluoride, isobutane, and carbonic dioxide. The four main particle detectors at CERN are known as A Large Ion Collider Experiment (ALICE), ATLAS, Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS), and Large Hadron Collider beauty (LHCb). The CMS detector, where KNF diaphragm pumps are used to purify and circulate the specific gas mixtures, is 21 meters (68.9 feet) long, 15 meters (49.2 feet) wide, 15 meters (49.2 feet) high, and weighs 14,000 metric tons. Constructed in 15 sections, it is located in a hall 100 meters (328 feet) underground near Cessy, France. The CMS experiments are primarily aimed at advancing research into the Higgs boson, which was detected at CERN in July 2012. Gas Recirculation and Recuperation Environmentally harmful chlorofluorocarbons, called freons, play an important role in detector gas mixtures. They help in achieving the detector performance required at the LHC experiments (high-rate capability, containment of charge multiplication, detector stability at long term, etc.). To deal with this issue, physicists at the LHC are conducting research into eco-gases for the next generation of detectors. CERN’s EP-DT Gas Team is developing gas recuperation systems for the large experiment in addition to the already used gas recirculation systems. They are also developing a compact and flexible gas recirculation system for laboratory applications to eliminate any gaseous emissions from the detector activities. Recirculating and recuperating the gas mixtures also reduces CERN’s operating costs. Images courtesy of KNF. Custom Diaphragm Pumps Two KNF pumps were chosen to purify and circulate the gas mixtures in the CMS particle detector. A third pump serves as a backup in case of failure during an experiment. Since detector gas mixtures must be free of contamination and have unimpaired circulation, KNF process pumps have proven to be the ideal solution due to their cleanliness, gas-tightness, and reliability. The pumps in current use at CERN are the result of close collaboration and high level of customization. Based on a KNF N 0150, the pumps are equipped with the pump head geometry of a KNF N 1200. Further customization included combining a working diaphragm with an additional safety diaphragm — which prevents gas from escaping in the unlikely event of a fracture. Despite the high level of customization, this process only took 18 months of development, including rigorous factory testing. According to Roberto Guido, Project Leader, EP-DT Gas Team, “Particle detectors are extremely sensitive to the presence of impurities in concentrations even below the ppm level. KNF pumps were tested, and they ensure this requirement is met.” For information: KNF Find Your Pump CERN LHC Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Bionic Pets works closely with Raise3D to improve the transformation process from digital design to compliant end-products—building a stable and efficient medical-grade prosthetic for animals of all types. How Custom 3D Printed Prosthetics for Animals Are Made Bionic Pets works closely with Raise3D to improve the transformation process from digital design to compliant end-products—building a stable and efficient medical-grade prosthetic for animals of all types. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jul 28, 2026 Medical To help injured animals regain mobility and improve their quality of life, Bionic Pets LLC provides custom-made veterinary prosthetics and orthotics. The company works closely with pet owners and veterinarians to deliver tailored solutions ranging from full to partial prosthetic limbs to protective helmets, addressing a wide range of congenital and acquired conditions. As a trusted partner in veterinary care, the company focuses on helping animals regain their independence, restore confidence in their movement, and support long-term well-being. Bionic Pets operates a fully in-house, on-demand manufacturing workflow tailored to each animal’s specific goals and needs. Production is driven by immediate patient needs, requiring customized prosthetic designs tailored to each individual’s size, weight, and activity level. Specializing in professional grade veterinary orthotics and prosthetics, Bionic Pets operates completely within the veterinary medical device segment to serve animal owners and veterinarians globally. Prosthetics are fully customized and tailored to each animal’s unique anatomy, weight, and activity level. Devices are designed to meet the functional and mobility needs of the individual animal, ensuring comfort and durability for day-to-day life. Bionic Pets required a custom system that enabled highly customized prosthetic feet, specifically adjusting to thickness and stiffness based on each animal’s lifestyle. The company needed to produce soft, flexible component that could be produced on demand for fast turnaround times. In addition, they needed to reduce overall production time. Having relied on Raise3D E2 IDEX 3D printers for dependable dual-extrusion of parts, the demand for faster turnaround times for customized TPU 3D printing led the team to upgrade to the Raise3D E3 IDEX 3D printer. The new printer was designed for faster printing of flexible materials. Paired with the company’s Flexible Filament Auxiliary Feeder the system is capable of producing TPU prints of up to 200 mm/s and better print consistency. This allows Bionic Pets to print multiple iterations and colors within a single job—typically producing two parts per print cycle. Depending on the size and stiffness requirements of each prosthetic foot, print times were reduced to as quick as 1 hour, enabling flexible and responsive production scheduling. Using Kexcelled’s TPU 95A filament, Bionic Pets was able to produce durable prosthetic components that adapt to different surfaces while providing shock absorption, comfort, and enhanced mobility for animals. Combined with Raise3D Filament Dry Boxes and Flexible Filament Auxiliary Feeder, this optimized workflow has led to improved print quality, higher material yield, and more efficient production of customized veterinary prosthetics. Following the upgrade to the Raise3D E3 paired with the Flexible Filament Auxiliary Feeder and Filament Dry Boxes, Bionic Pets achieved measurable improvements in production efficiency, product quality, and manufacturing flexibility. Some of the key results included streamlined design iterations, on-demand manufacturing with shorter turnaround times to better meet individual patient needs. The company also got improved print performance, quality, and consistency with fewer gaps, holes, and stringing issues. They were also able to increase material efficiency and filament spool utilization. Through the adoption of the Raise3D IDEX 3D printing solution, Bionic Pets successfully optimized its production workflow of custom veterinary prosthetics and orthotics. The transition to the E3 enabled more efficient manufacturing, improved part quality, and greater design flexibility, allowing the company to provide highly customized prosthetics and orthotics solutions that help more animals regain their mobility and independence. *Images courtesy of Raise3D. For information: Raise3D Bionic Pets Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Reykjavik City Theatre recently underwent a major intercom system upgrade — with minimal disruption — to deliver flexibility within a unified production network infrastructure. How Iceland's Renowned Theatre Seamlessly Upgraded Its Intercom System Reykjavik City Theatre recently underwent a major intercom system upgrade — with minimal disruption — to deliver flexibility within a unified production network infrastructure. Edited by EE Staff Stage Events Feb 24, 2026 Since opening in 1989, the Reykjavik City Theatre (RCT) has been a cultural hub for Iceland’s theatre community, hosting a diverse range of productions in its three performance spaces which share foyer and backstage dressing rooms. During its operations, RCT has gone through multiple intercom system upgrades to meet growing demands. Most recently, RCT transitioned to a unified production network infrastructure. With this high-speed architecture in place, the move to the Arcadia Central Station proved ideal, seamlessly leveraging the new network to launch the theatre into a modern era of communication—ready for immediate needs as well as long-term expansion. Images courtesy of Clear-Com. “This project demonstrates how existing customers can take a stepwise approach to upgrades without replacing entire systems,” said Gunnar Gunnarsson, General Manager at Atendia, Clear-Com’s distributor in Iceland. “Arcadia delivers scalability, performance, and effortless live configuration while minimizing disruption, a perfect solution for a busy theatre like RCT.” The Arcadia upgrade included FreeSpeak® high-capacity IP transceivers and 24 FreeSpeak II wireless beltpacks, alongside HelixNet® networked partyline speaker stations to ensure comprehensive coverage throughout all shared performance spaces. By making extensive use of Clear-Com’s virtual Role configuration, the team effectively deploys this shared inventory across different venues and tasks. Additionally, Dante® connectivity was added to the production audio network and paging system. This allows any audio input or output to be assigned within the intercom system while still retaining existing V-Series® keypanels, FreeSpeak beltpacks and analog partyline system components, now powered by Arcadia. Images courtesy of Clear-Com. According to Steinar Snæbjörnsson, Technical Director at RCT, “Clear-Com’s Arcadia system proved to be the perfect fit for our new production network infrastructure. Its flexibility and ease of use transformed our communication workflow, providing the clarity and control that made a real difference during this season’s major productions such as Moulin Rouge .” Flexible, Full-Scale Capabilities The upgraded system provides RCT’s teams with the mobility, capacity, and ease of use needed to adapt effortlessly to dynamic production demands. Some of the new capabilities include venue-wide coverage of intercom support across multiple performance spaces, featuring wireless coverage that leverages the facility’s production network. Here are five additional benefits of the new system: Flexible Role Configuration — Efficient management of shared equipment inventory using agile Roles, allowing for task-, persona-, or location-centric setups. Dante® Integration — Integration with the venue’s audio infrastructure where any microphone or monitoring output can be routed to the intercom, while providing a flexible paging interface for front-of-house and back-of-house operations. Efficient Intercom — High-density V-Series keypanels that provide efficient access to channels, direct point-to-point communication, program audio, and paging. Live Management — Effortless Central Configuration Management (CCM) accessible from any web browser, facilitating live Role and label changes to adapt to user needs instantly, while providing real-time monitoring of transceiver loads to optimize system deployment. Unified Control — Custom API control integration with the Q-SYS back-of-house audio system. This upgrade is a model example of how modern intercom solutions can enhance efficiency, performance quality, and creative collaboration in live theatre environments. For more information: Clear-Com Arcadia Central Station FreeSpeak II Wireless HelixNet Partyline V-Series Keypanels Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next