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The locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator, reducing noise and fumes around maintenance crews. Upgrading Old Diesel Locomotives to Hybrid and Overhead Line Operation The locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator, reducing noise and fumes around maintenance crews. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Apr 2, 2026 Swiss-based Müller Technologie is using ABB traction equipment to upgrade old diesel locomotives to hybrid and overhead line operation. This technology will enable three driving modes, giving the locomotives greater flexibility and a new life to meet changing environmental requirements. The capability for zero-emission operation will be especially useful at work sites and in tunnels. While rail is already among the cleanest modes of transportation, there is still considerable potential for improvement. Consequently, the industry is moving towards sustainable solutions that significantly reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. Müller Technologie’s diesel locomotives are generally used in construction, maintenance, shunting, and cargo services. One of their main tasks on maintenance and construction sites is to supply power for electric tools. Previously, this meant that the diesel engine had to be run in idle mode all the while the locomotive was at the work site. The resulting fumes and noise were an inconvenience, especially in urban areas, tunnels, and during the night. Old diesel locomotive and new hybrid locomotive. All photos courtesy of ABB. Müller Technologie’s innovative Aeam 841 hybrid locomotives are based on the original diesel locomotives and are now being converted to enable the three-mode operation (tribrid). Following the conversion, the locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator. Müller approached ABB as a technology partner to help develop the traction chain solution and supply the necessary equipment. The project required high operational reliability and cost efficiency, as well as the need to fit the traction equipment into very limited space. It was also necessary to implement the conversion without modifying the locomotive body, as this would ensure a more straightforward approval process. The existing diesel-electric locomotives had a 920 kW engine powering a generator, with the output fed via a two-level traction converter of 724 kW being upgraded to four motors totaling 1000 kW. During the conversion the diesel engine was replaced with a 500 kW unit capable of running on renewable fuel, and the original electric motors were completely overhauled and retained. Advanced Traction Solution The traction system supplied by ABB consists of BORDLINE® CC1500 AC Compact Converter, eBox, Traction Batteries, and a traction transformer. The BORDLINE Compact Converter is a highly integrated solution which includes a line converter, two traction converters, two auxiliary converters, and a Traction Battery Chopper including low pass filter. Aeam 841 hybrid locomotive. All photos courtesy of ABB. Its three-level traction converters are around 7-9% more energy efficient than the locomotives’ original two-level units. They put less stress on the motor insulation and have lower harmonic losses which means additional energy savings in the motors. The regenerative braking function provides further energy savings by feeding braking energy into the Traction Batteries or overhead line. The eBox provides an interface between the converter and batteries and includes the Battery Management System. The traction batteries are based on LTO (lithium-titanium-oxide) cell technology, which has the advantage of very short charging times. It will be possible to charge the locomotive’s batteries from empty in around 20 minutes, enabling a full recharge during a short break in the working day. The traction batteries can be charged from the overhead line, diesel generator or depot power supply. Sustainability Through Low-Emission Operation The retrofit project prepares the 5 locomotives for a sustainable future and will extend their lifetime by 25 years. The project itself is being implemented on an environmentally-friendly basis, with 28 tons of steel—including the old engine, traction converter, and some body panels—being recycled from each locomotive. As well as retaining the existing motors, the chassis and bogie frames have been overhauled and adapted to meet new requirements. This way, the vehicles are given back to the market as rental locomotives, with important savings of steel. Retrofitting old locomotives with energy efficient technologies aligns with climate protection goals, promoting sustainable rail transport. Hybrid locomotive with overhead line. All photos courtesy of ABB. The locomotives will reduce CO2 emissions to a minimum improving the working conditions of the personnel, by reducing fumes and noise. ABB’s traction chain allows silent operation during the night and in densely populated urban areas. The hybrid locomotives will be capable of operating without the need for external energy sources over several assignments. Müller Technologie has calculated that they can use overhead lines to power 80% of their trips, with the remainder covered by the traction batteries or diesel generator. Overall, diesel consumption is expected to be reduced by up to 85% compared to pre-conversion figures. This equates to 8,500 liters of diesel fuel per locomotive that will be saved every year. The capability to operate emission free at work sites is an important advantage of the new locomotives. The Traction Batteries are therefore not only used for propulsion, but also supply the tools used on site. Adopting sustainable alternatives to traditional diesel engines significantly reduces carbon emissions and helps the rail industry to decarbonize. ABB’s extensive expertise along with the comprehensive traction solutions for sustainable transportation will pave the way for a leaner and cleaner future. For more information: ABB Bordline Compact Converter Müller Technologie AG Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

A team of students from a broad mix of engineering disciplines designed, built, and raced a solar-powered car across 3,000 kilometers of Australian wilderness. Here's how they did it. Race Car Crosses Continent With Nothing But Solar Power A team of students from a broad mix of engineering disciplines designed, built, and raced a solar-powered car across 3,000 kilometers of Australian wilderness. Here's how they did it. Alex Edwards, Protolabs Sports Aug 28, 2025 Cool Stuff What does it take to build a car capable of crossing a continent on nothing but solar power? For the Brunel Solar Team, it’s a combination of deep engineering talent, relentless motivation, and an ability to adapt under pressure. As the world’s most decorated solar racing team prepares for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, I sat down with two of its members, Merijn Kroon, Partnerships, and Lucas de Jong, Mechanical Engineer, to explore the innovation behind their latest vehicle, their collaboration with Protolabs, and what it really takes to chase the sun across the Australian outback. Each year, a fresh team of students from TU Delft in the Netherlands puts their degrees on hold to focus full-time on one ambitious goal: designing, building, and racing a solar-powered car across 3,000 kilometers of Australian wilderness. The team draws from a broad mix of disciplines—mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture, aerospace, industrial design, and more. As Merijn explains, “There’s no course at university on building solar cars. What really matters is motivation and the willingness to learn fast.” All photos courtesy of Protolabs and Brunel. Each team is carefully selected by the outgoing group, with a focus on complementary skills. “It’s not just about technical know-how,” adds Lucas. “It’s about creating a team that communicates well, adapts quickly, and supports each other.” A Race Against Time and Nature This year’s race (2025) introduces fresh engineering challenges. It is scheduled two months earlier than usual, in August rather than October—right in the middle of the Australian winter. That means fewer daylight hours and lower solar intensity, directly impacting the energy available to the car. Compounding the challenge is a major rules shake-up. “We’re now allowed to use six square meters of solar panels—up from four,” says Merijn. “But that doesn’t mean we can just scale everything up. A bigger solar array introduces aerodynamic and structural complications, and all of this with two months fewer development time.” To make matters more interesting, the allowable battery capacity has been slashed to one-third of previous years. That makes smart energy management not just useful, but essential. “We can’t just rely on speed,” Lucas says. “Strategy becomes everything. From wind and weather to incline and sunlight patterns, the winning team will be the one that adapts fastest.” All photos courtesy of Protolabs and Brunel. To build a car this innovative on such a tight timeline, reliable manufacturing support is critical. “We’re always looking for partners who share our values around sustainable innovation,” Merijn says. “With Protolabs, the enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate stood out from the start. Their speed and precision made them a natural fit.” Protolabs supplied key CNC-machined components including the brake pedal bracket—crucial for safety—and the front suspension damper brackets. “These are high-load, safety-critical parts that must be lightweight but durable,” explains Lucas. “We used aerospace-grade aluminum and relied on finite element analysis (FEA) to validate designs before manufacture.” Thanks to tight coordination, complex, high-tolerance parts were delivered and mounted on the car in time for early testing. Once complete, the team focused on less time-sensitive parts, which included spares. Additional components were later 3D printed via Protolabs Network, at longer, more cost-effective lead times, adding valuable flexibility to the manufacturing process. By partnering with Protolabs, the team could accelerate the manufacturing process when the pace demanded it, and cruise when efficiency was in the pole position. Engineering a Safer Solar Future While the car is designed for maximum efficiency and lightness, safety remains paramount. “We’ve got an impact-resistant occupant cell, a balance-bar braking system, and new this year—a roll bar similar to Formula One’s Halo structure,” says Merijn. “The entire system is built to comply with strict safety checks during scrutineering in Australia.” Even with the lightweight design, the car remains incredibly stable. “The aerodynamic drag increases massively as you go faster, so our cruise speed is around 90 km/h. It’s all about efficiency—not max speed,” says Lucas. In fact, the team’s 2005 car still holds the solar racing speed record, clocking an average of 131 km/h over 3,000 km. The race itself takes place on public roads, with speed limits and real-world weather to contend with. “You only have one shot,” says Merijn. “Anything can go wrong—weather, mechanical, even wildlife. We heard stories of teams waking up with snakes in their tents.” More Than a Race While solar racing isn’t (yet) the future of commercial transportation, it has a vital role to play. “We don’t expect everyone to drive a solar-powered car tomorrow,” Lucas admits. “But solar as a range-extending technology? Absolutely. Some manufacturers are already exploring that.” View: NUNA 12S 3D Experience Ultimately, the race is a showcase—a proof of what’s possible. “If 18 students can build a car that crosses a continent using nothing but sunlight, what’s stopping the rest of the world from embracing renewable energy?” Merijn asks. Beyond the engineering challenge, both Merijn and Lucas agree that the experience has shaped them personally. “The biggest lesson is how to be part of a high-performing team,” says Lucas. “You learn how to work under pressure, communicate effectively, and put trust in each other.” The team is even coached by a former Olympic champion from the Dutch national hockey team—underscoring the importance they place on performance culture as much as technical expertise. For more information: Protolabs Brunel Solar Team Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

An innovative approach to teaching music brings music education and technology together.  Violins Too Expensive? School Superintendent Turns to 3D Printing An innovative approach to teaching music brings music education and technology together. Joe Gillard Cool Stuff Sep 23, 2025 Here’s a story at the intersection of entertainment and engineering that will tug on your heart strings, so to speak. A school superintendent in Pennsylvania, Laura Jacob, noticed that students from low-income families had difficulty purchasing violins for music, and came up with a solution inspired by something she had heard of an orchestra doing: 3D-printing instruments. In the past five years, Jacob has 3D-printed 200 violins that are free for students in a school where 70% of them are low income. Violins can be very expensive, even relative to other instruments. It can cost hundreds in rental fees for the families of students, if they want their child to have the opportunity to learn violin in school. Jacob started out with two 3D printers. She now says she has 34 of them, and students can learn to use the machines, too. “I’m not a computer scientist or an engineer by any means, but after a variety of failures, I found one that actually printed and it sounded good,” Jacob told CBS News. The violins are made from a template created by a company called Hova Labs. Beyond that, Jacob used real violin strings, a few additional wooden parts, and then added modified guitar pegs. Hova Labs violin template for 3D printers The whole process takes about three days to finish a violin. If the instrument breaks (probably a strong possibility with schoolchildren), they can easily be fixed. As a fun added benefit, the 3D-printed violins can be made in different colors, which might make the instrument more interesting for kids. Prusa 3D Printers The Prusa XL 3D printers are designed for precision. According the company website, “the precision tolerance of a well-assembled Original Prusa printer is 0,1 mm on the Z-axis and 0,3 mm on X and Y.” And the company says that calibrations can be done to further improve the result. “It can be as little as 0,05 mm on all axes, after making additional calibrations such as the Extrusion multiplier calibration and Extruder linearity correction.” Prusa XL 3D printer The magnetic heatbed can hold a two-sided flexible spring-steel sheet, for removal of printed objects from the print surface, according to the product page for the Prusa XL. There are six varieties of sheets for the Prusa XL: smooth, powder-coated textured, PA Nylon, PP, and HighTemp, all of which serve a specific type of 3D-print job. For information: Hova Labs: https://www.hovalabs.com/ Prusa Research https://www.prusa3d.com/ CBS Interview with Laura Jacob: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pennsylvania-school-3d-printers-violins/ Cover photo: u_l5sf233ead , Pixabay Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Multiple industries including broadcasting, medical, military, consumer, and others require heating and cooling depending on their application. Thermal Management for Concert Lighting Multiple industries including broadcasting, medical, military, consumer, and others require heating and cooling depending on their application. Terry Persun Stage Events Jun 11, 2025 Cooling fans are a staple product in many industries, such as large data centers, broadcasting, medical, commercial products, military and defense, and multiple large-scale operations whether in lighting or temperature management in office buildings. As a design and manufacturing company, Pelonis provides a wide array of products that deliver the necessary thermal management required by users. When the right product isn’t available off-the-shelf, they provide custom and semi-custom solutions. Here are a few examples: A high-end concert lighting company required exceptionally good airflow blowers to maintain temperatures on a series of high-temperature emitting lights. Pelonis was able to meet the challenge by first evaluating the environment and calculating the overall needs of the system. For motorcycle rider comfort, one motorcycle manufacturer called on Pelonis to supply off-the-shelf cooling fans. In a similar operation, the company supplied fans for delivery vans to cool the driver. Each application required the company to understand the needs of the system to select the most affordable and reliable product for the customer. A consumer electronics company who required ultra-thin flexible heaters for their latest line of portable devices selected Pelonis to help them solve the challenge. Pelonis engineered low-profile heating elements that not only maintained optimal device temperatures but did so without compromising design aesthetics. A robotics manufacturer needed a compact, yet highly efficient cooling system for their automated machinery. Overcoming multiple proprietary design challenges, Pelonis was able to provide customized axial fans that improved thermal management, ensured longer operational life of the equipment, and reduced overheating risks. A commercial HVAC company sought an energy-efficient blower solution to enhance airflow in a large-scale ventilation system. To provide the right system for the project, Pelonis had to design and develop a cross-flow system of fans that could deliver consistent air distribution while reducing power consumption to help save energy. For more information: Pelonis Technologies, Inc. Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Watch this lecture from Nick Hutzler, Assistant Professor of Physics at Caltech Where Did Matter Come From? Watch this lecture from Nick Hutzler, Assistant Professor of Physics at Caltech EE Staff Mini Story Nov 11, 2025 We here at Entertainment Engineering magazine have very curious minds. Because of that, we’re often falling down rabbit holes and pulling on threads to learn more about things that a lot of people probably don’t think about too often. One of those things that interest us is the universe: how it came to be, what it’s made of, and why are we even here. Well, that last part we’ll leave to another post. To help drag you into our rabbit hole with us, we’ve got a Caltech lecture that explores the origins of matter in the universe. And questions the presence of anti-matter, dark matter, etc. In this lecture by Nick Hutzler called “Molecules, Mysteries, and the Matter of Existence” you’ll find some answers, more questions, and a lot of fun things to think about—all with some humor as well. See the lecture here: Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The ride required energy supply and data transmission capabilities for every vehicle along the track, operating both indoors and outside. Steel Roller Coaster Hybrid Ride Uses Advanced Conductor Rail System The ride required energy supply and data transmission capabilities for every vehicle along the track, operating both indoors and outside. Edited by EE Staff Theme Parks Dec 1, 2025 The steel roller coaster dark ride hybrid “ARTHUR—Minimoy’s Kingdom” offers attendees an immersive as well as dynamic adventure, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor sections for a one-of-a-kind ride experience. Designed as an Inverted Powered Coaster, the ride maintains smooth acceleration, precise motion control, and an engaging journey for riders of all ages. With its innovative design and seamless integration into the themed environment, “ARTHUR—Minimoy’s Kingdom” sets increased standards for themed entertainment. Image courtesy of Europa Park and Conductix. Conductix-Wampfler supplied the advanced Conductor Rail System, ensuring a reliable energy supply and data transmission for seven ride vehicles along the track. The system includes anti-condensation heating in outdoor and adjacent indoor areas, guaranteeing optimal performance under varying conditions. Image courtesy of Conductix. The SinglePowerLine 0812 conductor rail system is used as a standard product to power bridge-, portal- and process cranes, but can also be used on a wide variety of other applications, such as amusement rides and people movers, where higher amperages are needed. The safe, refined connector system and clip-on rail holders, in combination with optional mounting brackets, permit fast, economical assembly. Image courtesy of Conductix. Available with different rail materials, suitable for most industrial as well as theme park environments, this single pole conductor rail offers easy expandability, simple and precise installation, clip-on rail holder for easy and economical assembly, and a finger-safe design with high-quality insulation. The SinglePowerLine 0812 provides IP21 (vertical installation) and IP23 (horizontal installation) ratings to the user. The device is okay to use in multiple indoor and outdoor environments in temperature ranges from -15 to +55 o C. From engineering and supply to installation and commissioning, Conductix-Wampfler played a crucial role in enabling the ride’s smooth and efficient operation. For more information: Conductix-Wampfler Single PowerLine 0812 Read more about theme parks >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

A strategic partnership aligns a knife steel distributor with the manufacturer of specialized materials and services. Expanding Knife Steel Availability A strategic partnership aligns a knife steel distributor with the manufacturer of specialized materials and services. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff May 7, 2026 Entertainment Engineering doesn’t often publish partnership announcements, but we do like to make our readers aware of quality products and materials and the many applications they can be used in. Knife steel is a particular brand of steel for a specific application, but as with all specialized products and services, there are many unique projects that could benefit from the same innovative ideas. Stahl Krebs will become a key distributor for Alleima’s premium knife steel portfolio, with grades like Alleima 14C28N and Damax, and give manufacturers across Germany and Central Europe improved support with technical expertise, regional stockholding, and efficient logistics. Solingen has long been regarded as the center of German cutlery and knife manufacturing. Stahl Krebs has supplied generations of professional knife makers, tool manufacturers, and specialist producers with high-quality steels and dependable service. Its deep understanding of knife-steel performance and well-established distribution network makes Stahl Krebs a trusted partner in the German knife-making ecosystem. Through Stahl Krebs, customers will gain direct access to Alleima’s premium knife steel grades, including Alleima 14C28N, as well as Damax, Alleima’s industrial-scale Damascus steel featuring up to 135 layers of martensitic stainless steel. Industrial Applications Alleima’s knife steels are trusted worldwide in applications ranging from kitchen and outdoor knives to demanding industrial tools. Wherever high-precision cutting, wear resistance, and durability are needed in automated production, knife steel is perfect. This includes machines made for industries such as food processing, paper and pulp, packaging, textiles, plastic recycling, and metal fabrication such as slitting and shearing. Alleima will provide its full knife steel portfolio of 10 steel grades, supported by technical data sheets, heat-treatment guidance, and sustainability credentials. Hydraulic shear machine. Stahl Krebs will handle warehousing, sales, and distribution. With their established customer base and strong regional distribution capabilities Stahl Krebs will complement Alleima’s advanced materials expertise and broad knife steel range. Together, the companies aim to deliver both premium material performance and dependable availability to European manufacturers. “Joining forces with Alleima is a valuable addition for Stahl Krebs. We supply high-quality steel to a range of industries such as those making knives and cutlery, surgical instruments, precision tools and more. This partnership ensures our customers have access to one of the most comprehensive and high-performing knife steel portfolios available today,” says Daniel Krebs, Managing Director at Stahl Krebs. * Images courtesy of Alleima and Depositphotos.com . For information: Alleima Stahl Krebs Read more food related articles >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

When designing and building satellites that will scan over a million stars in search of Earth-like planets and the potential for life, precision is key. In the Search for Extraterrestrial Life, You Need Incredibly Sensitive Equipment When designing and building satellites that will scan over a million stars in search of Earth-like planets and the potential for life, precision is key. Edited by Terry Persun Cool Stuff Jun 29, 2026 Aerospace The search for extraterrestrial lifeforms has been the focus for many of the space endeavors during the 20th and 21st centuries. So, are we any closer to finding an answer? And what do we need to do technologically to observe our solar system? It is simply not possible to send people into space to do the searching. Instead, we rely on incredibly sensitive equipment that is able to detect the subtle variations that reveal the types of environments existing on planets within and beyond our solar system. The fact we are here at all means that we know for sure that rocky planets with liquid water are able to support organic life. Which means that these qualities are high on the list of signals to search for. At the forefront of this search for extraterrestrial life is OHB, a leading European space engineering company specializing in satellites and space systems. The projects OHB supports include a wide range of stakeholders, from weather forecasting to precision agriculture, to civil security. To achieve this, OHB requires absolute precision in its processes, particularly in areas such as optics and assembly. According to Bernhard Sang, Chief Engineer, Optical Missions & Instruments, OHB System AG, The challenge in building satellites is that only one or two are built and they need to work perfectly throughout the mission.” Images courtesy of Hexagon and OHB. Planet Hunting Satellite One of OHB’s key projects is PLATO, a planet-hunting satellite designed to detect Earth-like planets capable of supporting life. Equipped with 24 cameras that are aligned using micron-sized shivs, PLATO will study stars and their planets in precise detail. The satellite can study the diameter of a dime from a distance of 300 km. The manufacturing of PLATO requires highly exacting, micron-level precision to ensure it is fully capable of detecting minuscule dips in starlight—the indicators of planets transiting their stars. Plus, during takeoff, the satellite and its components must endure 50g of g-force energy. Choosing Hexagon as their preferred supplier of metrology solutions has given the team the assurance that they are using the most accurate technology available on the market to achieve their objectives. OHB use Hexagon’s laser trackers, coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), and software. Images courtesy of Hexagon and OHB. The laser trackers are designed specifically for medium to large part inspection and large-scale assembly applications. The units are portable and offer precise 3D measurement to reflectors along with six-degrees-of-freedom functionality, laser trackers support handheld probes, laser scanners, and machine control solutions for versatile, high-performance metrology. Hexagon CMMs deliver exceptional accuracy, seamless workflows, and advanced software integration. As for software, Hexagon’s VGSTUDIO MAX provides non-destructive insights across every stage of the product lifecycle. With a comprehensive suite of inspection tools including CT reconstruction, AI-driven segmentation, GD&T analysis, material evaluation, and simulation. VGSTUDIO MAX is the preferred software for precision-focused industries. OHB faced several challenges during the PLATO project, particularly the micron-level accuracy required while protecting against the harsh conditions of space, such as temperature extremes (-150°C to +150°C) and high launch accelerations (up to 50G). In addition, they needed clean room conditions to prevent contamination of any optics. In collaboration with OHB, Hexagon was able to modify the CMM to operate within an ISO5 clean room for measurement of the PLATO system, ensuring all components, even the grease used, had no negative impact on the cleanliness of the environment.One of the major challenges for the project was camera alignment. The precise alignment of 24 cameras is performed using Hexagon’s laser trackers, while Hexagon’s CMMs supported the process by measuring sub-micrometer shims, which are introduced to the system until perfect alignment is reached. Images courtesy of Hexagon and OHB. Non-destructive testing software solutions from Hexagon helped optimize soldering processes and predict material wear, which contributes to overall operational reliability. The software makes it possible to see the evolution of any solder cracks, so the team can optimize the soldering process and avoid the cracks starting in the first place. With the extreme conditions and extremely tight tolerances, solutions such as these are critical for improved system durability. One of the universal truths of space exploration is that it takes an enormous amount of collaboration to achieve successful missions. This is vital because the unique demands of space-grade manufacturing require adaptability, trust in data, and different departments working together with unity and precision. OHB and Hexagon believe that quality drives every decision since there is no room for error. In the extreme environments found in space, every component puts pressure on the whole; any flaw or misalignment can have catastrophic results. OHB and Hexagon’s commitment to quality ensures that humanity can continue to explore the deep universe and find the answer to that fundamental question of whether we are alone or part of a web more vast than we can possibly comprehend. For information: Hexagon OHB Read more about space tech >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The SaxaVord Spaceport recently received a high-tech cloud-based voice communications system for their ground control center. The First Vertical Launch Spaceport in Europe Gets Cloud-Based Comm System The SaxaVord Spaceport recently received a high-tech cloud-based voice communications system for their ground control center. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff May 4, 2026 SaxaVord Spaceport is located at Lamba Ness on the island of Unst in the Shetland Islands and is developing infrastructure and critical services to support future orbital test flights. The site has secured Spaceport and Range licenses from the Civil Aviation Authority and is designed to support small rockets delivering payloads into low Earth orbit. Images courtesy of SaxaVord. “Reliable communication is essential to safe and efficient launch operations,” said James Withey, Senior Systems Consultant Engineer, CC Sales UK, Clear-Com. “Gen-IC® lets SaxaVord’s teams and visiting payload operators to connect instantly from any location, while giving administrators the control and scalability needed to support evolving mission requirements.” Gen-IC includes a 32-user license supporting PCs located within the control center, mobile devices operating on-site and off-site, and remote access for operators who require connectivity beyond the facility. The system allows range administrators to remotely add, manage, and remove users, as well as assign voice loop communication keys as needed. This enables rapid reconfiguration of user interfaces to support visiting payload teams and changing operational requirements. Images courtesy of SaxaVord. An on-premises voice recording system is also included, capturing audio from eight dedicated voice loops via a Clear-Com LQ eight-channel interface. The system provides storage and playback capabilities to support operational review, health and safety requirements, and training. Maintaining proper and accurate communications is a mission critical capability that the SaxaVord Spaceport will rely on, while future expansion may include integration of tactile control hardware and the site’s radio network through additional interfaces. For more information: Clear-Com Gen-IC SaxaVord Spaceport Read more about space >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Coco Robotics partners with Prime Video and Omnicom to promote Eddie Murphy film Delivery Robots Used to Market New Film in LA Coco Robotics partners with Prime Video and Omnicom to promote Eddie Murphy film Film and TV Sep 1, 2025 Coco Robotics, an urban robot delivery company, partnered with Prime Video and Omnicom to promote The Pickup , a heist comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson, and Keke Palmer. Coco Robotics was founded in 2020 and brings zero-emission deliveries in the U.S. and Europe through robot delivery. In a new campaign, the robots will be doing double duty, serving as marketing devices for the new film. Marketing with robot delivery The campaign launched July 21 and repurposed Coco's Los Angeles fleet of “robocouriers,” which are urban delivery robots, into marketing bots on the streets of LA, or as they call them, “immersive mobile brand activations” that blend entertainment and technology. As part of the campaign, Coco wrapped its LA-based mobile robots in Prime Video and film branding, designed “to evoke the film's iconic armored money trucks,” according to a press release. The campaign is intended to play on the film's central theme while it turns the robots into an extension of the film's story. The robots play voice lines from the film when deliveries are picked up, “turning each vehicle into an in-world character that expands the cinematic universe from screen to sidewalk.” So, Coco's robots deliver food, but also generate “broad exposure” that the company says rival traditional marketing methods, such as billboards. “Unlike static ads, Coco's robots draw eyes wherever they go - making them an attention-grabbing ad surface in any city that naturally sparks filming and sharing,” said the company in a press release. See Coco robot in action The visibility is powered by a combination of proprietary impression-tracking technology and OOH measurement tools. "This campaign shows how our robots can amplify brand storytelling in real time," said Josh Dubin, Head of Ads at Coco Robotics. "It transforms routine deliveries into personal, one-to-one brand experiences that connect with consumers in a natural, memorable way." This type of out-of-home advertising is something that some believe will be more common in the future. "We're always looking for ways to push boundaries and create media moments that people haven't seen before," said Elizabeth Boone, Senior Associate in Emerging Platforms and Partnerships at Omnicom Media Group. "This campaign is a glimpse into the future of media. It's a perfect example of a unique integration of robotics, storytelling, and neighborhood-scale visibility that can come together to bring a movie to life in the real world." The campaign also includes a custom commercial using Coco's delivery robots in a heist scene from The Pickup . Source: Coco Robotics Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Without any sound to distract you, you can hear your heart, lungs, and more — watch this video from Veritasium to explore what it's like to step inside an anechoic chamber. Exploring a Completely Silent Anechoic Chamber Without any sound to distract you, you can hear your heart, lungs, and more — watch this video from Veritasium to explore what it's like to step inside an anechoic chamber. EE Staff Mini Story Mar 2, 2026 Cool Stuff We here at Entertainment Engineering love the strange and interesting. We’re curious people. So, even though this piece is an older one, we were intrigued and thought to bring it to you. Being in extreme silence—with literally no sound to distract you—your body becomes the sound field. You start to hear your heart, throat, lungs. It is said that remaining inside the chamber for too long can become disturbing. One thing we do know is that it will likely affect everyone differently. Do you think you could stay inside an anechoic chamber for very long? Below is a video where David Muller from Veritasium investigates the concept. It’s recommended that you listen to the video using headphones. For more information: HBK World Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

It takes technological sophistication to create controlled chaos that mirrors the unpredictability of real-world emergency response, while maintaining uncompromising safety and reliability. The Precise Engineering Behind an Emergency Training Center for First Responders It takes technological sophistication to create controlled chaos that mirrors the unpredictability of real-world emergency response, while maintaining uncompromising safety and reliability. Braden Steiner, Associate Principal Cool Stuff May 26, 2026 Standing at the edge of the river channel at the North Carolina Emergency Training Center (NCETC), with live aircraft fire testing unfolding in the distance, the gravity of the mission becomes immediately clear. This is not a themed environment designed to simulate danger—it is a purpose-built landscape where realism is essential, stakes are high, and engineering precision directly supports life-saving training. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. Located at the Stanly County Airport in New London, North Carolina, the NCETC is envisioned as one of the nation’s most advanced first-responder training campuses. The facility supports Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), swift water rescue, urban search and rescue, hazardous materials response, and fire investigation, all within a fully integrated environment. Under the authority of the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal, the project brought together a multidisciplinary team including Calibre Engineering, BNA Consulting (now Resolut), AE Urbia, Timmons Group, and Cloward H2O which was the aquatic and hydraulic systems specialist. Since its initial announcement in 2017, the project has grown substantially, expanding from an original $28 million allocation to a total investment of approximately $87 million, with construction accelerating in 2023 and full operational readiness achieved by the end of 2025. Engineering the Water Systems From an engineering standpoint, the water systems presented both the defining challenge and the defining opportunity of the project. The facility required swift-water environments capable of producing variable currents, turbulence, eddies, standing waves, and downstream recovery zones—conditions that could be carefully tuned for novice instruction or intensified to replicate the force and volatility of real flood and river rescues. These aquatic environments had to coexist seamlessly with aviation fire trainers, burn pits, aircraft mockups, smoke systems, and structural collapse props, all while conforming to strict safety, environmental, and permitting requirements. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. Achieving this level of realism began with extensive hydraulic modeling. Advanced computational fluid dynamics and three-dimensional flow simulations were used to study current behavior, turbulence zones, and velocity profiles long before concrete was poured, or pumps were specified. These models informed the shaping of banks, placement of baffles and weirs, nozzle configurations, and interaction with training obstacles such as rockwork and debris elements. Just as critically, the system was designed with adjustability in mind—recognizing that no simulation perfectly predicts real-world behavior once water begins moving through a physical environment. Flow control across the campus is achieved through a coordinated network of variable nozzles, spill weirs, control gates, and valve banks that allow instructors to fine-tune conditions in real time. High-flow primary pumps deliver the volume needed for aggressive rescue scenarios, while mid-range pumps and variable frequency drives allow efficient operation during lower-intensity training. Redundancy is built into every critical system, ensuring that no single mechanical failure can compromise operations. Soft-start sequencing, surge control, and bypass loops protect both infrastructure and trainees as the system transitions between idle and full-throttle states. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. Equally critical is water quality management. Because trainees are immersed in these environments, the systems were engineered to maintain consistent clarity, chemistry, and sanitation while tolerating heavy turbulence, sediment loads, and debris. Filtration trains, disinfection systems, pH control, sediment settling zones, and controlled make-up and bleed-off strategies work together to protect both human health and long-term equipment performance. These systems are designed not only for peak performance, but for decades of reliable operation under demanding conditions. Automated Systems At the heart of the facility is a robust automation and control architecture. A PLC- and SCADA-based backbone monitors flows, pressures, water levels, pump status, valve positions, and water quality metrics across multiple zones. Training supervisors can adjust scenarios through intuitive human-machine interfaces, while layered interlocks ensure that unsafe conditions trigger immediate, coordinated shutdowns. Redundant sensors, communication pathways, and data logging provide both real-time situational awareness and long-term performance insight, allowing operators to adapt scenarios dynamically while maintaining strict safety margins. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. Integration with the broader site was a constant focus throughout design and construction. The water systems are inseparable from the surrounding civil, landscape, and architectural elements, and subtle changes in grading, embankments, or drainage can significantly influence hydraulic behavior. Close coordination ensured that aquatic zones blended naturally into the campus while remaining highly engineered beneath the surface. Maintenance access, stormwater management, structural supports, and visual cohesion were all addressed as part of a unified master plan. Sustainability and operational efficiency were embedded into the design from the outset. Energy efficiency is achieved through precise pump modulation and demand buffering, while durable materials and protective coatings reduce long-term maintenance requirements. The system is designed to accommodate future upgrades, allowing new technologies or expanded training capabilities to be integrated without wholesale reconstruction. Continuous monitoring and feedback loops further support efficient operation and long-term resilience. Like any project of this scale, NCETC presented risks ranging from hydraulic uncertainty to mechanical reliability, environmental compliance, and schedule constraints. These were mitigated through conservative design margins, physical mockups, phased commissioning, and early coordination across disciplines. The result is a facility that includes a full-scale 737 and C-130 ARFF trainer, a 3,500-gallon Jet-A hydrocarbon burn pit, and one of the most sophisticated integrated training environments in the country. Now fully operational, the North Carolina Emergency Training Center stands as a benchmark for how engineering, technology, and realism can converge to support first responders in the safest possible way. For Cloward H2O, the project reinforced essential lessons: model early but design for adjustment, prioritize maintainability alongside performance, integrate deeply across disciplines, and never underestimate the importance of commissioning and real-world tuning. Above all, the work underscores the responsibility inherent in engineering environments where realism is not entertainment—it is preparation for moments that truly matter. 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