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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

Engineers had to overcome challenges such as durability, weatherproofing, and isolated locations when designing a scale to track hive numbers, winter honey reserves, and more. Beekeepers Are Buzzing Over a Hive Monitoring System with Hourly Reports Engineers had to overcome challenges such as durability, weatherproofing, and isolated locations when designing a scale to track hive numbers, winter honey reserves, and more. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Feb 2, 2026 Hobbies Beekeepers wishing to stay focused on their bees and harvests needed a way to continually monitor their hives. One way to do this would be to create a source of information that would be easy to decipher, such as the number of bees leaving the hive or an accurate estimate of the winter honey reserve. To do this, Thierry De Vreese, director of HoneyInstruments, put the first elements of a connected hive scale on paper. Technical challenges included how to create a highly accurate energy self-sufficient and absolutely reliable scale capable of delivering data in sometimes very isolated locations. The final product had to be extremely robust, very easy to use, weatherproof, and within a reasonable budget. The connected scale is aimed at professionals who generally work with more than 150 beehives, most often in transhumance: the hives are transported to different areas depending on the flowering season and the type of flowers to produce a specific honey. Images courtesy of HBK. To evaluate the weight of the hive with precision, HoneyInstruments incorporated the PW10 load cell developed by HBK. This device can measure a weight of up to 300 kg with an accuracy of 20 grams, has minimal power consumption, and is known to be totally reliable. The load cell operates outdoors and can easily withstand the harsh winters and hot summers that hives are often subjected to. With an accuracy of 20 grams, it is possible to estimate the entry or exit of about 200 bees. A hive contains more than 50,000 bees. The sensor is fixed in the heart of a metal structure known as a double H structure, which forms two support arms. The lower part is placed on the ground and connected to one side of the sensor, the upper part supports the hive and presses on the other end of the sensor. This structure creates a deformation proportional to the weight of the hive. A temperature sensor located in the housing completes the weight information. However, this is not the temperature inside the hive but the temperature outside in the local environment. Images courtesy of HBK. The sensor is powered by an electronics box that performs several essential functions and is powered from a single 3.7-volt lithium battery. The battery is changed once a year and has been preferred to the more expensive and more fragile solar collector. Once digitized, the signals of the hive's weight variations must be transmitted to the user. Beekeepers place their hives in places chosen for the quality of their flowers but often isolated from any communication network. GSM technology has been automatically excluded because it uses far too much energy. To solve the transmission issue, HoneyInstruments chose the Sigfox network. This network uses the ISM frequency band, which is particularly well suited to long-range, low-speed exchanges in rural areas. Images courtesy of HBK. This is because the hourly weight and temperature information does not represent a large volume of data. The range is about 40 km with a simple antenna of about thirty centimeters. The network of 2000 antennas cover more than 95% of the territory and is present in 70 countries. Once transmitted, the data is transferred to the Internet network and made available to the user on the Cloud HoneyInstruments platform. Users accesses their data using the serial number of the hive. Beekeepers generally have a great deal of knowledge about what is happening in the hive at different times of the day and in different seasons. Weighing results confirm day after day the evolution of the swarm and the normal course of these events. All of this attention results in fewer hive movements and an optimal honey harvest. For more information: HBK Load Cells HoneyInstruments Sigfox Read other articles about bees >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

A smart battery recycling factory, using process automation systems, must deliver productivity and safety while maintaining high environmental goals. Battery Recycling for an Eco-Friendly World A smart battery recycling factory, using process automation systems, must deliver productivity and safety while maintaining high environmental goals. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jan 27, 2026 A global recycling specialist, SungEel HiTech is establishing a secondary battery recycling infrastructure that actively supports the realization of a circular economy in the electric vehicle era and the transition to an eco-friendly industry. In line with domestic and international environmental policies and market changes, the company has committed to developing technologies and expanding business for a more sustainable future. Recent international environmental regulations such as the strengthened EU Battery Directive require improved recovery rates of valuable metals such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, as well as the adoption of eco-friendly processes. SungEel HiTech has proactively responded to changes by focusing on expanding their production infrastructure. The main process involves recycling lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, mobile phones, and energy storage systems (ESS) to extract valuable metals. According to Kim Taekyung, Manager of SungEel HiTech, “Previously, individual unit processes such as discharging, disassembly, crushing, melting, and hydrometallurgical refining were managed by different systems for each process, leading to complexities in operation and maintenance, as well as challenges in ensuring process efficiency. Therefore, SungEel HiTech determined that introducing a stable and efficient solution capable of integrally managing all processes on a single platform is urgently needed.” An Integrated Control System To achieve integrated control and optimization of these processes, SungEel HiTech implemented Rockwell Automation’s PlantPAx® Distributed Control System (DCS). This solution enables unified control of the entire battery recycling process on a single platform. This standardizes engineering and maintenance platforms, delivering high availability and performance while ensuring long-term technical support. Images courtesy of Rockwell Automation and SungEel HiTech. PlantPAx has enabled SungEel HiTech to greatly improve efficiency not only in process operations but in maintenance as well. By collecting and analyzing data across the entire process in real time, the company has enabled smart factory-based operation that enhance productivity, quality control, and early detection of equipment abnormalities. Through the implementation of the PlantPAx DCS, SungEel HiTech is significantly improving production efficiency and quality stability, which enables consistent product output. Plus, the automated safety management system has enhanced workplace safety and reduced the risk of accidents. The predictive maintenance capabilities of the PlantPAx DCS help to prevent equipment failures in advance, maximizing uptime, reducing maintenance costs, and greatly improving operational efficiency. For more information: Rockwell Automation PlantPAx SungEel HiTech EU Battery Directive For other environmental applications >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Rent touch screens and digital kiosks for product demos, interactive maps, digital signage, wayfinding, presentations, and more. From Museums to Trade Shows, Touch Screen Displays Are More Accessible Than Ever Rent touch screens and digital kiosks for product demos, interactive maps, digital signage, wayfinding, presentations, and more. Megan van Meer Museums Jan 27, 2026 Touch screen tables and kiosks built specifically for public spaces are the ideal element to add to your tradeshow booth or local event. These interactive elements are turnkey systems that are reliable and easy-to-use. Designed and manufactured by Ideum, these rentable tables and kiosks include the company’s Platform II multitouch table and their Pico touch screen coffee table as well as the Drafting II, the angled horizontal kiosk, and the Portrait vertical touch screen kiosk. The Vertical touch screen kiosks are available with 43- or 55-inch displays. Image courtesy of Ideum. Every touch screen rental uses Ideum’s responsive projected capacitive touch technology that supports up to 80 simultaneous touchpoints. They are built out of aircraft-grade aluminum and use high-quality commercial-grade components. Multitouch tables and kiosks feature a computer with a dedicated graphics card running Windows 11 Pro, which allows users to easily run any Windows-based software with ease. On-site vinyl wrapping was used on the Drafting II table to alter the color of the kiosk to fit company logos. Image courtesy of Ideum. The tables and kiosks are easily added to your event through a smooth process that can include delivery and pick-up to and from your location. Each rental ships in a wheeled ATA travel case, ensuring safe and secure transportation. The case is easy to unpack, and once the table or digital kiosk is unloaded, all the user needs do is plug in the power and press the power button. The system automatically boots to Windows 11 Pro, and once connected to the internet, allows the operator to browse, download, and install any applications required for the event. No internet available? Each table also includes USB ports, allowing users to install software directly from a USB drive. Ideum’s versatile touch screen kiosks and tables can be used for product demos, interactive maps, digital signage, wayfinding, presentations, and many other things. Shown is the Platform II multitouch table used at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Image courtesy of Ideum. As a company that specializes in interactive exhibits for museums and other public spaces, Ideum understands the demands placed on reliable hardware. Because of this, the company’s team can design and develop custom software with a focus on interactive experiences for a wide variety of events for small to large companies. Table and kiosk rentals are available nationwide with flexible timelines for events of all sizes. For more information: Ideum Platform II Drafting II Portrait Custom Software Touch Screen Rental For other display technology >>> 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

Closed-loop feedback system allows programmers to choreograph four-axes of eagle motion in sync with a musical soundtrack. Rose Parade Float Uses High-End Animatronics Closed-loop feedback system allows programmers to choreograph four-axes of eagle motion in sync with a musical soundtrack. Terry Persun Cool Stuff Jan 19, 2026 Fiesta Productions produced America250’s “Soaring Onward Together” float for the 137 th Rose Parade hailing in the 2026 new year. The design features three larger-than-life majestic eagles soaring above breathtaking landscapes, symbolizing the enduring strength, beauty, and spirit of America. With cascading waterfalls, intricate natural details, and extraordinary animated artistry, the eagles take flight with a complexity and creativity that reflects the grandeur of this historic milestone. Images courtesy of Rando Productions. To complete the project Fiesta Productions required animation for the three eagles and turned to Rando Productions for their technological expertise. The float, which measures 30’x18’x55’ features a cutting-edge, sophisticated electro-servo hydraulic system to animate each of the three soaring eagles, bringing them to life in front of adoring crowds. Each eagle has an 18-foot wingspan and incorporates four distinct axes of motion: head turning, neck lifting, body rolling, and wing flapping. A custom, computer-controlled Rando system precisely adjusts the speed and position of every movement, resulting in smooth, natural movements. The eagles are powered by a 6-cylinder industrial gasoline engine driving a 32-gallon-per-minute hydraulic pump. Images courtesy of Rando Productions. All mechanisms were assembled and tested off-float before the sculpted pencil-steel rod work was split and carefully attached and integrated into the moving components. A specially designed, closed-loop feedback system allows programmers to choreograph the eagles’ motion in sync with Aaron Copeland’s Fanfare for the Common Man soundtrack. The control system was built around Weigl Controls’ ProCommander hardware, combining proven commercial control electronics with fully custom motion programming and tuning developed in-house at Rando Productions. This state-of-the-art animation controller uses timeline-based animation programming to precisely manage the velocity and position of each movement. Motion smoothing and synchronization was used across multiple axes. Special care went into the design and engineering of the system to achieve the most natural, realistic, and majestic motion possible. Joe Rando and David Stark rode inside the float to manage the hydraulics and show controls. Images courtesy of Rando Productions. Rando Productions was involved from the beginning of the project and helped with concept design, which included hand sketches and napkin concepts, motion intent studies, and creative collaboration with the float design teams. Using SolidWorks 3D CAD modeling software, they were able to create multiple iterations for the internal mechanisms and structural and motion feasibility analysis for the float components. Once the design was determined, the team produced pre-visualization 3D-printed models to validate motion paths and proportions prior to fabrication. Besides providing the motion systems for the animatronics, Rando Productions was on-site for the installation and mechanical integration of the system. They provided testing and final motion tuning for the float as well as provide show readiness support. Rando Productions is known for their advanced custom fabrication, mechanical effects, show action equipment, and automation solutions for themed entertainment, film, broadcast, and live event industries. The “Soaring Onward Together” float commemorates America’s 250 th birthday and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Fiesta Productions is the production company behind the float. For more information: Rando Productions Fiesta Productions Weigl Controls America 250 Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

A deep dive into the hydrophone arrays and specific equipment used by scientists at Project Blue Whale at the University of Iceland. Noise Pollution is a Big Threat to Blue Whales — Here’s How Scientists Are Listening In A deep dive into the hydrophone arrays and specific equipment used by scientists at Project Blue Whale at the University of Iceland. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jan 19, 2026 Growing up to 30 m long and 180 tons, the blue whale is the largest animal in the world. In addition to its impressive size, its calls can be heard thousands of kilometers away and far below the ocean’s surface. But there’s a growing threat to their communication: noise pollution. These highly intelligent — and endangered — animals have a similar communication frequency range as a variety of man-made sounds, such as ship engines, low-frequency active sonar, seismic air gun array explorations, other oil exploration activities, and more. With growing evidence that noise interference can disturb vital life functions of these whales — feeding, breeding, navigation, and communication — and with underwater noise pollution on the rise, it’s imperative that researchers gain a better understanding of how, why, and where blue whales communicate, as well as the level and effect of noise disturbance on their lives. Project Blue Whale The Húsavík Research Center at the University of Iceland is a leading authority in the study of marine mammals. The center is led by Dr Marianne Helene Rasmussen, who is the driving force behind Project Blue Whale, a research project dedicated to gaining knowledge about blue whales in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean to better understand the impact of increasing ship noise on their habitat. The project aimed to better understand the blue whale’s communication patterns. This required the localization of individual blue whales and the recording of what sounds they were making at what times. Scientists wanted to answer key questions such as whether it was always the same animal calling, what the difference is between animals, and whether they are able to change the frequency of their calls to account for background noise (something other species of whales are able to do). The project also aimed to find out if and how underwater ship noises affect these communications, which involved projecting noises at certain frequencies to mask the sounds created by blue whales and investigate their responses. Images courtesy of HBK. Hydrophones in Marine Research Dr. Rasmussen came to the project with broad experience in marine research using hydrophone arrays to record beam patterns and sound levels. In an earlier project in Northern Norway, her team recorded the sounds made by sperm whales using Type 8101 hydrophones from Brüel & Kjær. The project had been a great success, so it was a natural decision to use the same equipment again for Project Blue Whale. The Brüel & Kjær NOTAR recorder allows underwater sound recording for hours at a time — even without the need of a laptop. NOTAR is a small and rugged solid-state recorder that has no shock-sensitive moving parts (unlike tape recorders or PC hard drives) which means it can be used in locations where no PC-based recorder can operate. Hydrophone Type 8106 has a built-in preamplifier which gives a signal suitable for transmission over long cables. It is usable down to 1000 m ocean depth. Recording the Whales To record the whales, a digital recorder was custom made at Aarhus University and specially configured to be able to capture sound on one channel and to give an accurate GPS signal reading on the other for precise localization data. Images courtesy of HBK. To get accurate recordings, the team also needed calm seas and no wind; otherwise, the subsequent waves and ‘cable strumming’ noise from the hydrophone cables would cause additional noise interference that would render the results useless. The frequencies of interest were as low as 10 – 20 Hz. In order to achieve any bearing (directivity), the distance between the hydrophones had to be far enough apart to secure a certain minimum angle. The team utilized four boats and four hydrophones in a large hydrophone array; the distance between the hydrophones was either 1 km or 500 m and they were at a depth of 30 m. Once a whale was sighted, all that was needed was for the boats to stay in place and record the whale sounds and locations for approximately one hour at a time. Images courtesy of HBK. Analyzing the Whale Recordings Aside from a few days of bad weather and some minor technical glitches, everything went as planned and the team managed to gather over 100 whale calls, along with a wealth of good positional data. The recordings were then analyzed onshore. Of course, the study didn’t end there. The second part — examining how ship noises mask and affect the whales’ communication — is an ongoing project. Nevertheless, the data so far has already revealed some interesting results about the nature of these fascinating sea mammals, how they communicate, what frequencies they use, why, and when. These findings are, in turn, giving rise to a host of new questions, such as whether or not blue whales can change frequencies when calling, if there is any interspecies communication, and if this methodology can be used to study other types of whales.Never one to sit still, Dr Rasmussen is already planning to apply for financial backing for a range of other projects to look more closely into these and other areas. For a project like this to have gone so smoothly so far, with so many extraneous variables to manage and overcome, is a huge achievement.Project Blue Whale has not only helped to form a far deeper understanding of blue whales — Dr. Rasmussen and her team also hope that their results will be a catalyst for a new dialogue with authorities about shipping lane regulations and other safeguards to the whales’ natural habitat. And if all this leads to more and better ways of protecting this enormous, endangered, and enigmatic sea creature, then this is the best possible result. For more information: HBK NOTAR recorder Hyrophone Type 8106 Read more deep sea articles >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

This original short film, Remembering, was produced using virtual production techniques and a companion Augmented Reality experience to extend the film beyond the screen and into the audience’s home. Disney Short Film Brings Augmented Reality Into Your Living Room This original short film, Remembering, was produced using virtual production techniques and a companion Augmented Reality experience to extend the film beyond the screen and into the audience’s home. Terry Persun Film and TV Aug 26, 2025 Cool Stuff The Disney short film, Remembering , by Emmy® Winning director Elijah Allan-Blitz, stars Academy Award® winner Brie Larson as a writer who loses an important idea. Her inner child then goes on a journey to find it. The director and Disney wanted a powerful way to elevate the viewing experience of the film for Disney+ Subscribers. The challenge was to capture the surprise, joy, and wonder Larson’s character feels and allow Subscribers to feel those same emotions. Disney and StudioLAB, The Walt Disney Studios' advanced development division for innovation in creative technologies, pulled together two important technologies—virtual production and augmented reality—to produce Remembering— through the use of game engine assets filmed in an LED stage, and using the full potential of virtual production techniques. The company then published those assets into a mobile Augmented Reality application that was also built in a game engine to extend the 'World of Imagination' beyond the screen and into the audience's home. Available via an app to select Disney+ subscribers, this first interactive content on Disney+ was triggered by specific moving images. When prompted, subscribers simply hold their device up to their TV screen to see an enchanting waterfall scene expand into their real-world living room, complete with frolicking dolphins, bright blue butterflies, and blossoming trees. When developing the app, ease of use was top of mind. So, all it takes is for the Disney+ subscriber to scan the room they’re viewing the film in, then wait for the prompt in the movie to hold up their device. According to Director, Elijah Allan-Blitz, “This is part of the future of how humanity will interact with entertainment. The Augmented Reality experience moves away from a typical passive experience of streaming and allows viewers to engage with it in a deeper way. That makes it something that you’re going to remember on a deeper level than just something you watch. It’s actually something you did.” Remembering: The AR Experience is the first Augmented Reality app that connects directly in sync with content on a streaming platform. This first-of-its-kind companion app provides an early look at the potential of AR experiences to enhance movie storytelling when viewers are watching at home. For more information: Magnopus AR Disney+ Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The latest in a series of ocean-observing radar altimetry missions. Ocean and Atmospheric Data Improves Hurricane Forecasts The latest in a series of ocean-observing radar altimetry missions. EE Staff Mini Story Jan 19, 2026 NASA and its partners launch a US-European satellite to monitor Earth’s oceans. The project is meant to provide ocean and atmospheric data for a number of purposes. According to Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, “Understanding tidal patterns down to the inch is critical in protecting how we use our oceans every day on Earth.” Two satellites make up the Copernicus Sentinel-6/Jason-CS (Continuity of Service) mission, which is the latest in a series of ocean-observing radar altimetry missions that have monitored Earth’s changing seas since the early 1990s. Key information includes wind speeds, wave heights, atmospheric temperature, and humidity. Get more informative details from the full article here . *Artist’s concept courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech 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

How Disney Imagineering Research & Development brought a robot into the real world that walks and talks just like the beloved animated character from Frozen. The Groundbreaking Technology Behind Disney's New Robotic Olaf How Disney Imagineering Research & Development brought a robot into the real world that walks and talks just like the beloved animated character from Frozen. Terry Persun Theme Parks Jan 13, 2026 Per a recent press release, Disney Imagineering Research & Development has recently brought Olaf into the physical world as a fully free-walking robotic character. To do this, there were several real-world challenges, such as translating a stylized, animated character with non-physical movement into a believable real-world figure. At the outset, it was obvious that traditional robotics approaches were not going to work simply because Olaf’s proportions, motion style, and expressive requirement differed significantly from typical walking robots. Challenges included creating Olaf’s large, heavy head while supporting it by a very slim neck. Then there were the small snowball feet with no visible legs leading to an animated walk cycle that doesn’t follow realistic physics. Finally, there was the challenge of adjusting to the high sensitivity to noise, jitter, or awkward impacts that could easily break the illusion of life. Even small issues like loud footsteps or stiff motion were found to immediately reduce believability, making this one of the most demanding character robotics projects Disney has attempted. To preserve Olaf's on-screen appearance, the team designed a compact robotic structure that was completely hidden beneath the costume. They used a novel asymmetric six-degree-of-freedom leg system with one leg inverted relative to the other. The legs were totally concealed under the soft polyurethane foam skirt to create the illusion that Olaf’s feed moved freely along his body. The flexibility of the foam snowballs was able to absorb impacts and allow recovery steps. The design allowed Olaf to walk naturally while keeping all of the mechanical elements out of view. Reinforcement Learning Rather than programming Olaf’s movements by hand, the imagineering team relied on reinforcement learning guided by animation references. Artists first created stylized walking and standing animations and then used them to train AI policies in simulation. Separate standing and walking policies user used along with a reward system that focused on matching animation, maintaining balance, and staying within physical limits of the robot. Training also included real-time puppeteering through an animation engine that blends idle motion, triggered gestures, and joystick control. This approach allowed Olaf to move in a way that closely matched his animated personality, rather than simply walking like a typical robot. Solving Noise and Overheating Problems Two practical issues proved especially challenging: footstep noise and overheating. To address sound, researchers introduced a special impact-reduction reward that smooths foot motion during contact with the ground. Testing showed this reduced average stepping noise by 13.5 decibels, without significantly changing Olaf's gait. Overheating, especially in the neck where small actuators support Olaf's heavy head, the team developed a thermal-aware control policy that fed real-time actuator temperature into the AI system. This allowed the system to adjust motion to reduce torque before temperatures reached unsafe levels. This approach slightly relaxes animation accuracy when needed to protect the hardware, enabling Olaf to perform extended movement without damaging internal components. Expressive Face, Mouth, and Arms Beyond walking, Olaf's expressiveness comes from a separate set of "show functions" that control fully articulated eyes and eyelids, moving his mouth to look like he’s talking, and moving his arms—done through hidden spherical linkages. All of these elements are controlled using classical methods rather than reinforcement learning, allowing precise facial and gesture animation layered on top of the walking system. Many costume elements, including the carrot nose and arms, are magnetically attached so they can safely detach during a fall. Olaf represents a new benchmark for non-robotic character believability. While the system was built specifically for Olaf, the techniques developed—including asymmetric leg design, thermal-aware AI policies, and sound-reducing motion control—can be applied to future Disney characters. As Disney continues to preview Olaf's upcoming debut in parks overseas, the research makes it clear that this is only an early step toward a broader lineup of expressive, autonomous characters. The self-walking Olaf will debut at World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland and at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2026. * Image courtesy of Disney. For more information: Disney Disney Hong Kong-Frozen Disney Paris-Frozen Read more about theme parks >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Gimbal suspended from crane controls the motion of Iron Man props during street fight scenes with Iron Man’s nemesis, Iron Monger Hydraulic Gimbal Aids Iron Man’s Motion Control Gimbal suspended from crane controls the motion of Iron Man props during street fight scenes with Iron Man’s nemesis, Iron Monger Parker Film and TV Jun 4, 2025 Controlling the motion of Iron Man suits and other props from the Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment movie at times appears to be done with futuristic technology. But instead, the advanced motion-control technology truly responsible for moving props in the movie is actually here today and includes a hydraulic gimbal, cylinders, valves, hose, fittings, and other hydraulic products from Parker-Hannifin (Mayfield Heights, OH). Stan Winston Studios built the large and sometime difficult-to-move Iron Man suits. “The Iron Monger suit is 10 feet tall and weighs approximately 800 pounds,” says Shane Mahan from Stan Winston Studios. “We developed and built it during the course of filming and used it to help bridge the character into the digital world of ILM and John Nelson. A gimbal was also built, which allowed us to push it and mimic the actions of the big torso walking.” Mahan continues: “It takes up to five operators to operate the Iron Monger when you’re using both arms. We have had a couple of instances where we’ve been able to put both arms on and do manual puppeteering to accomplish shots as well. The Iron Monger wasn’t built as a hydraulic character, so it’s basically human muscle, a gimbal, and our stuntmen making it work.” For the gimbal, the film’s Director Jon Favreau relied on Parker’s D81FH and BD101 valves. “The crew was trained very thoroughly on the implementation of the BD101 and D81FH, so the start up and operation of the system for Iron Man went very smoothly,” notes Steve Camp from Parker-Hannifin. “Iron Man was a gimbal application; however, this gimbal was suspended from a crane.” The four-axis floating gimbal was used largely in the street fight scene with Iron Man’s nemesis Iron Monger. The gimbal used D81FH servo proportional control valves. These Parker valves are used for tilt control. They are two-stage pilot operated solenoid valves with electronic spool-position feedback and on-board integrated control electronics. Their performance is characterized by repeatability and high dynamic performance. The gimbal also relied on BD101 servo valves and valve drivers. These valves are for applications requiring high dynamics, high flow, and a defined spool positioning in case of power supply breakdowns. The DB101 has onboard electronics and a closed-loop, position-controlled pilot valve and main stage. Parker sold valves, cylinders, hose, and fittings used in the gimbal. The company also supplied accumulators, gas bottles, and D31FH EH valves along with the connectors. For more information: Parker Home Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next