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Japanese drama uses multiple Blackmagic cameras and DaVinci Resolve Studio for grading. Hi-Tech Cameras Used to Shoot TV Drama Japanese drama uses multiple Blackmagic cameras and DaVinci Resolve Studio for grading. Terry Persun Film and TV Jun 19, 2025 Blackmagic Design recently announced that the ABC TV and TV Asahi network drama series “It's a Wonderful Teacher!” was shot on Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K and Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro digital film cameras. Additionally, DaVinci Resolve Studio was used for grading the series. “It's a Wonderful Teacher!” is a television drama produced by ABC TV starring Erika Ikuta. The series depicts the struggles of a young high school teacher, Rio Sasaoka, from Generation Z. In the show, Rio experiences so much stress in her second year of teaching that she considers quitting. However, by addressing challenges in modern education and building relationships with her students, she gradually grows as an educator. According to cinematographer Akiyoshi Konno, who was in charge of shooting the series, "Since the story is set in a high school, there are more than 30 cast members in the classroom scenes. Because of this, we used a multi camera setup. The main camera was the URSA Mini Pro 12K, while the B and C cameras were Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pros. We divided the classroom in half, first shooting one side of the students and then moving to the other." Konno continued, "It's rare to be able to shoot a TV drama in RAW in Japan, but since the goal was to achieve a cinematic look, I decided to shoot in 24P Blackmagic RAW. I personally own Blackmagic Design cameras, so I was already familiar with their ease-of-use and excellent color quality. Additionally, for a multi camera shoot, the Pocket Cinema Camera was an affordable option, which was also a key factor in choosing it." The series was filmed using SIGMA 18-35mm and 50-100mm cinema lenses. Practical lighting techniques, where light sources are visible within the frame, were also incorporated into the production. DaVinci Resolve Studio was used for grading. After completing the first episode, Konno attended the grading sessions to discuss skin tone adjustments and color emphasis. “Additionally, I created a LUT combining ARRI and Kodak LUTs in DaVinci Resolve and used it during the shoot," said Konno. Konno said that one of his favorite features of Blackmagic Design cameras is their easy-to-use false color function. “Given the time constrains of a TV drama production, it was incredibly useful for fine tuning colors and monitoring lighting levels,” he concluded. For information: Blackmagic Design: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/ DaVinci Resolve: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve “It’s a Wonderful Teacher: https://japan-programcatalog.com/en/program/itsawonderfulteacher 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

A rehabilitation of Atlanta’s historic Fountain of Rings earlier this year included the installation of a new, transformative technology that’s dramatically improved the water feature’s programming capabilities. Fountain Technology Transforms Iconic Water Feature A rehabilitation of Atlanta’s historic Fountain of Rings earlier this year included the installation of a new, transformative technology that’s dramatically improved the water feature’s programming capabilities. Theme Parks Sep 4, 2025 Cool Stuff Built nearly 30 years ago, the enormously popular LED-lighted show-style water feature comprises more than 250 manifold-mounted precision jet nozzles supplied by several large dry pumps. Designed to reflect the iconic interlocking Olympic rings, this choreographed display has become one of Georgia’s most photographed attractions, delighting guests with daily performances of synchronized water, lights, and music. Led by Texas-based fountain design firm The Fountain People, the comprehensive restoration effort included the installation of 256 new display nozzles and an integrated LED ring light fixture for dramatic color-changing effects. The project also added plug-and-play connections and a new water feature show panel with a touchscreen interface that allows operators to select among up to ten choreographed musical fountain shows. Video courtesy of The Fountain People. Further improvements included modernized pump and filtration systems, fog system repairs, and remote access capabilities that give staff greater control over the fountain’s operation. Perhaps the most exciting addition brought by the renovation, however, was the installation of a new fountain valve technology that’s enabled vastly richer nozzle effects and choreographies, thrusting the historic attraction into a new, growing class of elite manifold-based fountains and water features. Until recently, manifold-based water features such as the Fountain of Rings used a water switch, a three-way valve installed at each nozzle that allows on/off nozzle sequencing. The ability to independently control spray height for each nozzle, however, has always required a distributed pump architecture where each nozzle is controlled by its own VFD-driven effect pump. This approach required extensive submerged electrical infrastructure but allowed for show flexibility where programmers could provide complex effects such as waves, variable height chase scenes, and more. Now, this same level of control is available among manifold-based water features. The Robotic Water Switch Developed by Texas-based aquatic robotics company SplashBotix, the SplashValve is a single-axis, fast-acting robotic valve that uses a specially shaped diverter to bring proportional nozzle height control to manifold-based water features for the first time. The Fountain People’s restoration effort marks one of the first and largest uses of the new technology, representing a new standard in manifold-based water feature design and programming. SplashValves are three-way valves installed at the nozzle, designed to divert incoming water to effect or bypass. Unlike water switches, however, SplashValves can also divert water to varying proportions of effect and bypass, enabling both on/off and spray height control. Capable of cycling up to four times per second, SplashValves marry the speed and on/off action of a conventional water switch with the height control flexibility of a VFD-driven effect pump. Image courtesy of The Fountain People. SplashBotix is a division of ARM Automation, an industrial robotics and automation firm with more than 30 years of experience developing high-performance motion systems for semiconductor, aerospace, and factory automation. Unlike other technical suppliers in its industry, SplashBotix takes much of its design and engineering inspiration from the world of industrial automation. For this reason, the story of SplashBotix and the SplashValve challenges assumptions about where advanced robotics and automation principles can provide value—not just on factory floors, but in public and municipal spaces as well. Design Features The secret behind the SplashValve’s advanced flow control capabilities lies in its clever electro-mechanical design. Rather than using a pilot switch to control the flow of water, the SplashValve uses a specially designed, servo-actuated diverter. Set inside the SplashValve’s bore, the diverter rotates 90-degrees between effect and bypass, incrementally changing the nozzle spray height as it shifts its position. Fully enclosed, the SplashValve’s servo motor transmits motion to the diverter through magnetic actuation, a clever static-seal design that makes the SplashValve virtually leak-proof. Image courtesy of SplashBotix. Composed mainly of 316 stainless steel and a proprietary blend of wear- and chemical-resistant plastics, the SplashValve also offers advantages over competing solutions when it comes to maintenance and durability. Effectively a one-inch diameter pipe when the diverter position is at full effect, the SplashValve allows most fountain debris to pass right through to the nozzle, making screen filters largely unnecessary. When clogs do occur, SplashBotix has made the diverter easily accessible for maintenance personnel, who can remove the diverter from the magnetic coupling, clean the valve and return the diverter back to the SplashValve all in less than a minute. From a fountain engineering and design perspective, the SplashValve represents a major paradigm shift. By bringing proportional control to manifold-based systems, the SplashValve is enabling designers to deliver world-class shows without the cost, complexity and power requirements of installing hundreds of VFD pumps. For municipalities like Atlanta and other stakeholders, this means richer experiences for guests, safer public amenities, and less frequent, less costly maintenance. For more information: SplashBotix ARM Automation The Fountain People Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Introducing X1: The World's First Multirobot System EE Staff Mini Story Oct 27, 2025 Caltech’s Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies (CAST) and the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates joined forces to design and build a multimodal system. The aim was to create a robot that could fly, drive, and walk so that you don’t have to focus on one area of operation—and purchase three devices. This demo shows how three distinct robot types come together to form a multimodal system that will offer a single solution to multiple challenges. We still think it operates similar to a Transformer, which is pretty cool. Read the whole article from CalTech here . *Photo courtesy of Academic Media Technologies/Caltech. Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

What do you want out of life? How Design Thinking Can Change Your Life What do you want out of life? Curated by EE Staff Mini Story Feb 2, 2026 Bill Burnett — the executive director of the Product Design program and an adjunct professor in Mechanical Engineering Design at Stanford — posits that anyone can change their outlook on life with a shift to "design thinking." We believe that, as engineers, our readership has a leg-up in this line of thinking already. What to you want out of life? Try his methodology and see how your vision clears and your mindset shifts. Listen to the talk or watch the full video on NPR.org . Lead photo credit: prottoy hasan on Unsplash. Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Industrial automation products can be applied to a wide number of unique applications, like the advanced control needed for a sophisticated escape room. Escape Room Experience Uses Automation Tools Industrial automation products can be applied to a wide number of unique applications, like the advanced control needed for a sophisticated escape room. Terry Persun Games Jun 16, 2025 Stage Events Escape rooms are immersive adventure games where players solve puzzles to break out from a themed environment within a set time. While seemingly unrelated to industrial automation, a systems integrator leveraged expertise gained from working in industrial applications to enhance escape room experiences through advanced automation. Andrew Schulman details how he applied industrial-grade automation to 13 Hour Escape Rooms’ Campground project. An Entertainment Game Changer Andrew Schulman, the founder of Schulman Engineering, transformed his mechanical background into a successful systems integrator career, executing industrial-focused projects across multiple sectors. His client in the escape room industry was a bit of a departure from the typical project and needed improvements to an existing PLC-based (Programmable Logic Controller-based) system that controlled audio and effects for enhanced gameplay and elevated player engagement. Schulman’s objective was to develop a flexible programming structure that could accommodate future expansions, while addressing immediate operational needs. Immersive environments of this type often incorporate digital control and programming to manage various technical elements, including sensors, sound effects, lighting, and countdown timers. To meet these and other needs, the AtuomationDirect Productivity 1000, stackable micro PLC was chosen for its extensive input/output (I/O) capabilities and compact design, managing over 200 unique I/O points through digital and analog interfaces. This architecture allowed for smooth gameplay, along with real-time interactions based on player actions. Minimizing Code Risk The original code used AutomationDirect’s Productivity Suite software, which simplified programming but relied heavily on latching bits to ensure that logic proceeded in the correct order. This is a valid programming approach, but without careful attention to detail the logic can be left in improper states. Photo: The AutomationDirect Productivity1000 stackable micro PLC manages more than two hundred I/O points located throughout the room, utilizing software-based drum sequencing instructions ; photos courtesy of 13 Hour Escape Rooms and Schulman Engineering. To enhance manageability, Schulman implemented drum sequencer instructions, simplifying the program and facilitating easier maintenance. The interactive and unpredictable nature of gameplay required robust programming practices to ensure system reliability. An AutomationDirect C-more headless HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) lets game operators monitor progress, and override actions where necessary, using a computer or mobile device. Sound Programming Practices An essential aspect of the escape room experience is sound design to enhance gameplay, and even deliver clues. The escape room design company had developed a custom printed circuit board (PCB) sound board to do this, featuring multiple audio ports. The PCB was controlled via RS-232 serial communication from the PLC, and it allowed for concurrent playback of multiple sound effects in different locations. This approach minimized wiring complexity and optimized the use of I/O resources, and it provided sound playback in different rooms throughout the game. As gameplay progresses, PLC logic determines which sounds to play, and whether playback is a single-time event or looped. Backstage Support To ensure reliable technical support across multiple game room franchises, a secure AutomationDirect StrideLinx VPN router was integrated into the system. This provides Schulman and the game owners with remote access for monitoring and troubleshooting, and it streamlined the programming and commissioning phases, both of which were accomplished without any required on-site visits. With a solid commitment to providing intuitive, quality products and exceptional technical support, AutomationDirect was an ideal partner for this unconventional application. Similarly, Schulman’s client was impressed by the resulting system performance, and the training and support provided so they could develop their in-house ability to maintain the system. Overall, the collaboration between Schulman Engineering and the entertainment company exemplifies how industrial automation can enhance interactivity, leading to a successful application that is both technically sound and creatively engaging. See the escape room video here . A version of this article was published in Automation.com . For more information: AutomationDirect Schulman Engineering 13 Hour Escape Rooms 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

Baseball speed and spin rates will be integrated into app and live broadcasts and used for recruiting. Capturing Ball Speed and Spin Rates with Radar for Live Broadcasts Baseball speed and spin rates will be integrated into app and live broadcasts and used for recruiting. Joe Gillard Sports Jul 7, 2025 Stalker Sport, manufacturer of sports radar technology, has partnered with AWRE Sports, who specializes in multi-angle video, data analytics, and live streaming products for baseball and softball. The partnership will integrate Stalker’s speed and spin rate data into AWRE’s app and live broadcasts. Also from EE: Electric Race Car Uses 3D-Printed Components While speed is a well-known pitch measurement, spin rate is the measure the amount of spin, in revolutions per minute, of a baseball or softball, which can affect the trajectory of a given pitch. Stalker Sport’s Pro S line is a handheld sports radar capable of capturing this measurement in addition to speed. With the AWRE partnership, baseball teams using the Pro 3s, Pro 3, or Sport 3 Connect can connect their radar with AWRE’s system, allowing pitch data to be displayed during broadcasts and logged in AWRE’s charting system. AWRE has developed a number of sports apps for athletes, schools, sports facilities, and other users. “At Stalker Sport, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to enhance the value of our technology for players, coaches, and scouts,” said Greyson Jenista, Product Manager for Sports Tech at Stalker Sport. “Partnering with AWRE Sports allows us to bring our trusted data directly into dynamic video and live streaming environments, making performance insights more accessible and impactful than ever before.” How do sports radar guns work? Radar guns for measuring pitch speed rely on Doppler Radar. Microwaves are directed at the ball (or any moving object) and the change in frequency is measured after it bounces off. As explained by OSU professor Todd Thompson, a radar gun, such as a police radar, “bounces a pulse of microwaves (or infrared laser light) of a known wavelength off a car or truck,” and then it measures the wavelength that is reflected back towards the gun. “The Doppler shift gives the vehicle's speed.” Measuring spin rate is more difficult, and Stalker boasts having the only sports radar gun that can do it. According to the company, “measuring ball rotation requires longer tracking of the ball’s flight, followed by a complex calculation determining ball spin.” A tool for recruiting The data will also include automated highlight reels that can be shared with college recruiters and coaches, the company says. “We are constantly seeking opportunities to integrate verified data our clients desire with video. Integrating the Stalker Gun, already a very valuable tool, directly into the AWRE Charting app was a no-brainer,” said Chris Clark, CEO of AWRE. “Stalker plus AWRE now allows coaches and scouts to automatically gather, tag and organize video and verified data. This integration presents a significant advantage for coaches, scouts, players, and prospects alike.” “This integration is just the beginning,” continued Jenista. “We’re excited about the opportunities ahead to innovate alongside AWRE and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in athlete development, recruiting, and fan engagement.” Source: Stalker Sport Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The iglide® self-lubricating, maintenance-free plastic bearings are being used in the design and development of a single-passenger, urban commuting vehicle. Personal Transport Vehicle Uses Plastic Bearings The iglide® self-lubricating, maintenance-free plastic bearings are being used in the design and development of a single-passenger, urban commuting vehicle. IGUS (originally published in 2013) Cool Stuff Jun 4, 2025 The Personal Transport Vehicle, Ground (PTV-G), is the brainchild of Redbud Technology LLC out of Union Grove, AL. The design uses an articulated steering geometry where the inclined steering pivot is positioned just behind the occupant, and as a result reacts like a high-performance, two-wheeled motorcycle. iglide plastic plain bearings are used in both the independent rear suspension and in the rear wheel lean-and-tilt mechanisms. The bearings are ideal for the harsh, dirty operating environment of the vehicle since they will not corrode and require no maintenance or external lubrication. The low cost and easy installation of the bearings is also an important benefit. In conjunction with the company's Y.E.S. (Young Engineers Support) Program, igus donated bearings at no cost to a group of students working on the project. The vehicle’s subsystems are being assigned to high school seniors and community college and university programs as special projects in order to encourage a younger generation to participate in the study of science, engineering, and manufacturing technologies. Photo: Rendering of the ongoing REDBUD™ PTV-G™ project Redbud is committed to projects that serve as educational resources to advance the knowledge of those who study and practice design, engineering, and manufacturing in the US. They seek to establish relationships with educational institutions and seasoned mentors to foster new learning models. igus’ Y.E.S. Program has a similar mission: to foster the mechanical design ideas of students with a passion for engineering, while at the same time educating them on the merits and benefits of plastic components. Redbud Technology is actively evolving the design and engineering of an urban PTV-G™ based on the plan form of a delta trike. The REDBUD™ PTV-G will serve as an educational resource to help technical high school, community college, and university students develop and analyze advanced single passenger commuting concepts, which includes fundamental 3D CAD/CAE/CAM, design, innovative engineering, and economical manufacturing, assembly, and lifecycle maintenance. For more information: igus Y.E.S Program Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Upgrading to professional-grade comms offered better sound quality and interference-free communication, but involved numerous behind-the-scenes considerations. Why This Laser Tag Arena Replaced Walkie-Talkies with Professional-Grade Comms Upgrading to professional-grade comms offered better sound quality and interference-free communication, but involved numerous behind-the-scenes considerations. Edited by EE Team Theme Parks Nov 25, 2025 Games Mission Laser offers interactive laser tag gaming experiences in Richmond, Virginia, and Charlotte, North Carolina, with a third arena opening soon. At one point, the company had an interest in upgrading its communications systems, both inside and outside the arena. Director of Operations and Sales, Trip Roberts explained that when he was looking for ways to help the team become more efficient, he chose to work with Clear-Com® systems. Upgrading its critical communications was certainly a core goal, but so was the ease of use and operation of the devices by the crew, who are often team members unfamiliar with professional-grade communication systems. Images courtesy of Clear-Com and Mission Laser. Roberts had worked with Clear-Com in the past and felt that they were the right company to partner with. He opted for the Clear-Com DX210 Digital Wireless System comprised of a two-channel communication base system and lightweight all-in-one WH220 wireless headsets. This system was an instant “upgrade” over the walkie-talkies the staff previously used, offering exceptional sound clarity and interference-free communications with the option of a single or dual-channel intercom system in Mission Laser’s demanding environment. Images courtesy of Clear-Com and Mission Laser. The DX210 can run in ISO intercom mode, so that communications can be routed directly to the facility’s indoor and outdoor speakers. This feature is perfect for customer announcements and getting the attention of the large and often distracted crowds. DX210 base stations and extender antennas are placed in “mission control” mode and integrated seamlessly with Mission Laser’s house audio system. The WH220 headsets are lightweight and comfortable to wear, yet rugged and reliable—an important feature in a fast-paced and physically active business. Plus, they allow staff to keep their hands free for other on-the-job tasks, and most importantly, provide superior sound quality and word recognition, a critical factor in a loud laser tag environment. Images courtesy of Clear-Com and Mission Laser. “Being able to communicate in a more controlled and coherent way removes a fair amount of stress for our crew, improving overall productivity and fun on the job,” Roberts said. After their shifts, each team member can simply hang up their headsets, set the batteries on chargers, and the equipment is all set for the next shift to start. “If I’m working in front of the house, I can easily troubleshoot any issues with my team without having to physically go to them,” Roberts explained. “Precise communications are an essential component of our day-to-day business running smoothly. The Clear-Com technology gives our busy staff the freedom and flexibility they need to manage the games, gather customer groups, work more efficiently, and ultimately offer better customer service.” For more information: Clear-Com DX210 Digital Wireless System and WH220 Wireless Headset Mission Laser Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Inside the hidden systems that shape today’s most impressive aquarium experiences — where engineering, animal welfare, and guest immersion converge. The 7 Hidden Systems and Considerations Behind the Most Ambitious Aquarium Designs Inside the hidden systems that shape today’s most impressive aquarium experiences — where engineering, animal welfare, and guest immersion converge. Edited by EE Staff Attractions Jan 19, 2026 Cool Stuff Behind every impressive aquarium is a complex engineering foundation invisible to visitors but vital for aquatic health and facility success. Creating such environments depends on precise control of hydraulic flow, pressure, acoustics, temperature, and advanced systems. These must operate reliably under extreme conditions, all while raising visitor expectations and most importantly keeping animals safe. We’re going to go through seven aquatic technical considerations to address when engineering an aquarium. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. 1 - Hydraulic dynamics inside exhibit tanks Water flow in tanks must mimic the natural environments they are trying to emulate, which means preventing dead spots and ensuring that there is even temperature and oxygen distribution throughout. Stagnation will harm marine life as well as the clarity of the water. Engineers must optimize circulation and water movement for an effective outcome. This means optimizing the location of inlets and outlets to ensure debris and waste are removed efficiently without disturbing the aquatic habitat. 2 - Acoustical considerations Noise control is a major concern, especially for sensitive aquatic species. Marine wildlife is often very sensitive to noise and vibration. Although this aspect can easily be overlooked by architects unfamiliar with such applications, this aspect is very important. Vibration and noise solutions for devices such as pumps, filtration systems, as well as visitor activities must be considered. Acoustic materials and vibration-damping supports need to be a critical part of design at an early stage. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. 3 - Thermal management Precise temperature control is a critical requirement across multiple zones, such as warm tropical tanks or cold-water displays. Managing multiple heating and cooling systems adds complexity to the automation system. Consideration must be paid to the heat loads from lighting and the equipment itself because these elements can raise aquarium and ambient temperatures. Engineers will need to incorporate heat load calculations into their designs to prevent temperature spikes that could easily harm animals or waste energy. While considering options, it is wise to include heat recovery systems into designs, which will help to reduce overall energy costs. 4 - Biosecurity and filtration system zoning The spread of disease from one exhibit to the next can be a huge factor in designing aquariums. Like the world’s oceans and waterways, each environment can be very different. This means that biosecurity measure, such as compartmentalized filtration systems, UV sterilization stations, and quarantine protocols must be considered. Advanced filtration zoning for various species’ waste loads requires specialized equipment. The biological footprint of fish, coral, and invertebrates can be very different. 5 - Advanced control and monitoring systems Automation must be used efficiently. The use of SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) systems provides aquariums the ability to automate and remotely monitor life-support systems vital for maintaining stable water quality and environmental conditions. Cloward H2O incorporates the latest hardware and software SCADA system designs to facilitate real-time monitoring, automated adjustments, and logging of critical data for tend analysis, and ensuring immediate responses to deviations from optimal conditions. These systems must include sensors and monitoring devices to collect temperature data, pH, oxygen levels, and nutrient cycles, all of which enable the aquarium staff to predict and prevent potential issues before they even occur. Images courtesy of Cloward H2O. 6 - Waste management and water reclamation Aquariums require closed-loop efficient water reclamation systems that filter and recycle water, minimize waste, and reduce environmental impact. Waste removal systems must be able to handle aquatic waste to keep water clean and reduce the impact on sewage and ecosystems, including bio-waste digestion or safe discharge after treatment. 7 - Tank structural design Every aquarium tank must withstand hydrostatic and dynamic pressures from contained water. Structural design involves calculating wall thicknesses, material strengths, and load distributions to ensure safety under normal and extreme conditions. In large aquariums, forces on panels can reach hundreds of tons. Choosing the right material is crucial for exhibit tanks’ durability and clarity. Acrylic, with its optical purity and strength, is preferred for large viewing windows and tunnels, capable of thermoforming into complex curves for immersive experiences while maintaining structure. Laminated glass may be chosen for smaller or specialized tanks, prioritizing scratch resistance and rigidity. Selection involves evaluating UV exposure, chemical compatibility with seawater, and resistance to stress crazing or fatigue cracking. Equally critical are seams and joints, which must remain watertight for decades under constant pressure and temperature variation. Engineering analysis using FEA (finite element analysis) helps to ensure that stresses around edges and corners continue to remain withing safety limits under seismic and operational loads. Because large tanks can undergo size changes due to temperature shifts as well as hydrostatic forces, proper tank management is necessary. Cloward H2O engineers typically design in expansion joints, flexible seals, and temperature compensation to allow controlled movement while maintaining panel and seal integrity. Staying ahead in aquarium design requires leveraging the latest innovative technology and design methods. Cloward H2O uses advanced techniques to create visually stunning, functional aquatic environments. Whether the project is a small community aquarium or a sprawling marine park, every element must be tailored to meet each development’s specific requirements. Cloward H2O also promotes sustainability through eco-friendly, energy-efficient designs, creating environmentally conscious aquariums that enhance educational and conservation efforts. For more information: Cloward H2O Read more about water technology >>> 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