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High humidity and salty seas were no match for this corrosion-resistant radar system customization. Creating a Rust-Resistant Radar System for Ocean Vessels High humidity and salty seas were no match for this corrosion-resistant radar system customization. Edited by Terry Persun Cool Stuff Apr 21, 2026 A major company in the aviation industry operates a large vessel designed specifically for ocean navigation. The radar system on this vessel required a robust motor to ensure reliable rotation under very challenging environments. Original motor designs exhibited significant rust and corrosion due to exposure to high humidity and salty seas. The client didn’t want to rely solely on an IP65-rated motor. It wanted a solution that would eliminate the potential for rust entirely. Dings Motion was able to customize their motor to withstand the extreme conditions of the open ocean where high humidity and salinity was ever-present, ensuring long-term corrosion resistance. The solution involved applying a specialized anti-corrosive Parylene coating to both the motor’s rotor and stator. Since stepper motors typically have a very small air gap between these component, Dings Motion increased the gap by a small amount and were able to maintain tight tolerances as well. This adjustment allowed for an even coating of the rotor and stator without affecting the motor’s overall integrity or operating specifications—which was essential for the application. Photo courtesy of Dings Motion. The results of the customizations delivered significant operational improvements, enhancing both efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The solution also required less maintenance and fewer replacements of the radar system’s motor. In fact, the customer achieved a 25 percent reduction in maintenance costs while maintaining a consistent operational uptime much longer than previous systems. Dings Motion was able to solve their customer’s challenges while providing additional features and cost savings for the life of their motors. For more information: Dings’ Motion Custom Solutions Read more marine applications >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The U.S. debut at RPM Raceway brings an immersive, game-like experience. Kart Klash Merges Go-Karts and Video Games for a Unique Experience The U.S. debut at RPM Raceway brings an immersive, game-like experience. EE Staff Theme Parks Oct 7, 2025 Sports RPM Raceway, an immersive go-kart and entertainment destination with U.S. locations on the east coast, is merging go-kart racing with the familiar party video game experience of popular games such as Mario Kart. Kart Klash, which launched in September, is the first of its kind to do this type of interactive go-kart experience, according to RPM, which they call and “arcade-style battle where speed meets strategy.” Driving go-karts equipped with F1-inspired steering wheels and LED displays, racers collect and activate power-ups, including missiles, MPs, TNTs, boosts, and shields while navigating the track. Similar to the Mario Kart format, “mystery boxes” and “boost zones” add a layer of tactical gameplay, where each decision can make or break the race and give the edge needed to pass competitors on the track. “Kart Klash isn’t just about recording your fastest lap, it’s about outsmarting your opponents and crossing the finish line first,” said Andrew Farage, CEO and Co-Founder of RPM. “We’re rolling out a social reinvention of go-karting that blends the thrill of racing with the interactivity of gaming, appealing to a demographic that may prefer strategy over raw adrenaline.” In April, RPM was awarded the Guinness World Records for Longest Indoor Multi-Level Go-Kart Track in the World. The convergence of software and karting Built on RPM’s R-TECH platform and developed in partnership with SODIKART, each kart is equipped with an LED heads-up display that delivers real-time stats, sector data, and performance insights, streamed directly to each racer during the race. The technology includes projection mapping and elements such as power-ups and missiles which are displayed on the screen of the go-kart. For viewers, TV screens show what’s happening in real time. Kart Klash is $30 for members and $40 for non-members with designated race sessions where juniors, teens and adults can compete together. Live leaderboards and detailed performance tracking are available for participants and spectators. Kart Klash is launching at RPM Raceway’s Stamford, CT and Long Island, NY locations, with other locations to follow. Source: RPM Raceway Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

As differentiating features of automobiles are increasingly defined by software, OEMs are transforming their development processes from hardware- and component-centric to software-centric approaches. Complete Automotive Design Through Virtual Prototyping As differentiating features of automobiles are increasingly defined by software, OEMs are transforming their development processes from hardware- and component-centric to software-centric approaches. Gunnar Braun, Technical Product Manager, Synopsys and Stewart Williams, Segment Mamagement Director, Synopsys Cool Stuff Jul 29, 2025 In the race to develop software-defined vehicles (SDVs), automotive manufacturers (OEMs) and their suppliers are facing pressure from all angles. With vehicular codebases often exceeding those of commercial aircraft, OEMs must wrangle enormous complexity while shortening developing cycles. In addition, companies must deliver frequent software updates throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle, which continually assures quality, safety, security, and reliability. Further, cost pressures are enormous. These challenges demand faster, more rigorous software development, testing, and validation. While traditional hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) testing rigs are still a mainstay for system validation, their expense, latency, and inflexibility are increasingly at odds with the agility required by today’s automotive software development practices. To enable earlier and more efficient software testing and validation, the industry is adopting cloud-based development practices and the use of virtual prototypes. Cloud-native development Automotive software is simultaneously becoming more expensive and central to a car’s identity. Infotainment, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), traction control, and even powertrain management are all shaped by lines of code. The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the push toward fully autonomous transport have further increased the role and importance of automotive software. The shift from hardware-centric to software-centric vehicles means that OEMs and suppliers must rethink their development models. The IT industry pioneered cloud-native development approaches, leading to web applications and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions that are quickly delivered and continuously updated. These approaches involve incremental development and a strong emphasis on automation. DevOps practices further bridged the gap between the software development process and its operational deployment environment. Thanks to technologies such as containerization, testing cycles are now performed and automated in a production-simulated environment. This is one of the key challenges for OEMs and suppliers adopting cloud-native methods for SDV development: The replication of the operating environment — the vehicle — when developing and testing software. While the cloud provides virtually unlimited compute and collaboration resources, physical hardware—the ultimate destination for automotive software—often lags behind in availability. Teams often wait months for electronic control units (ECUs) to be ready for initial testing and validation. If hardware revisions are required, it extends the waiting period before OEMs and their suppliers can fully test their software at scale. All photos courtesy of Synopsys. Virtual prototypes accelerate automotive software development Virtual prototypes are models of target hardware that are used for software development, testing, and validation — before the hardware is available. Referred to as electronics digital twins (eDTs), these virtual prototypes simulate the behavior of automotive compute platforms; enable continuous software testing, integration, and delivery (CI/CD); and minimize the reliance on hardware and eliminate associated delays. Virtual platforms are used throughout the embedded software industry for starting software development before hardware is available, which results in a significant time-to-market advantage. A notable example is the open-source community’s use of QEMU, an emulator that allows open-source software stacks to leverage cutting-edge Arm CPU features well before the corresponding hardware is available. But traditional emulation-based tools were never designed for the complexity of modern automotive processors, such as Arm’s Cortex-A720AE, or the runtime demands of continuous, cloud-based software development. With Synopsys’s introduction of Virtualizer Native Execution, they are addressing these limitations and enabling Arm embedded software to be executed directly on Arm server CPUs—in the cloud, with no emulation or hardware required. This means developers can run workloads at the speed of the eventual hardware, roughly 100x faster than traditional instruction set simulators, while retaining the benefits of virtual prototypes and full compatibility with the existing ecosystem of models, tools, and workflows. Here are some of the technical and operational impacts: Software teams can validate complex system-level behaviors early and often, reducing the dependency on HiL rigs during the development cycle. With architecture parity between cloud and vehicle CPU (via Arm’s instruction set), developers can use the same development tools to significantly reduce workflow complexity. Native execution on Arm-based cloud instances, such as AWS Graviton servers, enables continuous DevOps and CI/CD pipelines, with virtual prototypes providing the critical link between development and operational environments. Leveraging the SOAFEE reference architecture An essential part of this puzzle is the SOAFEE (Scalable Open Architecture for Embedded Edge) initiative. Led by Arm and other industry stakeholders, SOAFEE provides a standardized framework and reference architecture—based on the principles of modularity and orchestration—for SDV workloads. By adhering to common standards like SOAFEE, the ecosystem of automotive OEMs, suppliers, and technology leaders can increase interoperability and reduce vendor lock-in. All photos courtesy of Synopsys. At Embedded World 2025, while in collaboration with Arm, Synopsys demonstrated how virtual prototypes, SOAFEE reference architecture, and cloud-to-edge software development come together: Leveraging Synopsys Virtualizer Native Execution in an AWS cloud environment, the demonstration featured an open-source autonomous driving workload running on top of the SOAFEE edge reference stack. Executed at real-time speed, the virtual prototype was approximately 100x faster than a comparable QEMU-based simulation. The demonstration showed how virtual prototypes replicate the structure of an edge device with sufficient granularity to validate real-world functionality and software behavior, while remaining scalable and shareable across teams and geographies. While the technical underpinnings are compelling, the business value of virtual prototypes and cloud-native development is just as important. Cloud-based workflows are becoming a prerequisite for meeting time-to-market expectations in a world where vehicle features are continuously updated via over-the-air (OTA) software pushes. Synopsys’s collaboration with Arm and other SOAFEE partners is ongoing, and forthcoming advances to Virtualizer Native Execution will enable more complex scenarios and system-level parity. This includes better support for real-time behavior, safety domains, and full-vehicle E/E system integration. In the meantime, the automotive industry has a powerful foundation on which to build. For more information: Synopsys Home Synopsys Virtualizer Native Execution release Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Special lighting with various accessories and optimized controls are used by one creative boutique to light multiple scenes easily and effectively. Three Light Units Help Create Cinematic Visual Effects Special lighting with various accessories and optimized controls are used by one creative boutique to light multiple scenes easily and effectively. Film and TV Jul 21, 2025 Aaron Sims Creative (ASC) is a full-service creative boutique that focuses on cinematic visual effects (VFX). ASC has provided iconic characters and worlds for a broad number of high-profile projects, including the Netflix drama “Stranger Things” and the Warner Bros. movie “Ready Player One.” ASC has adopted Litepanels’ Gemini 2x1 Soft LED panel. Gemini delivers precision color control along with a broad array of dynamic lighting and cinematic effects in a highly portable, battery operated, and lightweight LED panel, providing the ASC team with newfound flexibility and versatility in creating unique lighting applications. According to Mauricio van Hasselt, production manager for ASC (see photo below), “Lighting plays a critical role in our work, enabling us to add real-world components to our computer-generated visual effects for enhanced realism. We need highly versatile lighting tools that are not only dependable but offer fine-tuned control. I had heard about Gemini, but once I saw it for myself, I knew I’d found the ‘all-purpose utility knife’ we needed for lighting our projects.” All photos courtesy of Litepanels “Gemini produces true, full-spectrum white light and offers an extensive choice of control options for most lighting applications the team might dream up. The light’s exceptional color and realistic skin tones virtually eliminate the need for color correction, saving our clients time and money in post-production. And since I’m no stranger to Litepanels—their Astra LED panels have been my mainstay lighting kit for many years—I knew I could count on the product’s durability, performance, and outstanding light quality.” Gemini delivers flicker-free light for any frame rate, shutter angle, or intensity, making it ideal for high-speed photography, with smooth dimming from 100 percent to 0.1 percent for the smallest glint of light. The ASC crew is able to set Gemini’s correlated color temperature (CCT) anywhere from 2,700 to 6,000K to get accurate color rendition and add or subtract green with the turn of a dial. The crew can select virtually any color in the different color modes from the 360-degree color wheel in HSI Mode or create specialty colors in RGBW Mode by controlling each color independently. With Gemini’s new firmware release, the units now offer a broad array of dynamic special effects ranging from emergency lights, lightning, and fire, to pulsing, square, and strobe, just to name a few. In one on-location example, the ASC crew can use Gemini to generate on-set muzzle flashes that the actors and environment can react to, making the scene much more realistic than if the effect were added later in post-production. In another example, a scene with a laser beam, the crew was able to use Gemini to change the color of the laser instantly to support the director’s creative vision as he tried different scenarios for the scene. ASC also uses Gemini to generate interactive lighting on location that will later be motivated by sources created in CG. Van Hasselt added. “We were especially impressed with Gemini’s extremely light weight. I can carry the light with me to any location, and we can easily mount the panel on a boom—a phenomenal advantage when dealing with tricky top-lighting situations. Also, with Gemini’s highly intuitive and easy-to-use control interface, we can achieve a desired effect almost instantly. We’ve been able to save multiple USB presets for a variety of different looks, such as action or horror, and then trigger them any number of times with the touch of a button.” ASC VFX continually pushes the boundaries of cinematic visual effects, and its otherworldly creatures and setting have brought chills and thrills to audiences all over the world. Through the use of Gemini, from Litepanels, this single lightweight piece of equipment provides the ASC visual effects team with greater flexibility than they’ve had in the past—and with a wider range of solutions. For more information: Litepanels Aaron Sims Creative Videndum Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

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

Spanning multiple continents, the tour required a production system capable of maintaining consistent, high-quality visuals wherever it traveled. The Specialized Visual Technology at Dua Lipa's Radical Optimism Tour Spanning multiple continents, the tour required a production system capable of maintaining consistent, high-quality visuals wherever it traveled. Edited by EE Staff Stage Events Mar 9, 2026 Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism Tour is the biggest of her career. Before reaching the Americas, she captivated audiences across 44 shows throughout Asia, Oceania, and Europe. Behind this extraordinary success is a touring production every bit as ambitious and consistent as Dua’s vision. Creative Technology (CT) has been central to making that possible, delivering the complete video system and service that brought the show to life. Creative Technology’s collaboration with Dua Lipa’s team has evolved from a simple projector set-up to a stadium-scale spectacle. Their working relationship remained clear and collaborative from the start, letting both sides focus on creative solutions instead. This foundation of trust enabled Dua Lipa’s team to aim high, confident that CT would deliver on every requirement. Photos in this piece are credited to Luke Dyson, Jordan Munns, and Mitch Lowe. The Radical Optimism Tour spanned multiple continents before its European run began. That demanded a production system capable of maintaining consistent, high-quality visuals wherever it traveled. CT designed the system in London, ensuring all components could be matched regionally. In Australia and New Zealand, for example, local partners like Big Picture delivered equivalent ROE LED screens, maintaining continuity across the tour. Beyond the logistics, the creative requirements were substantial. The production included specialized solutions from a wide variety of companies including Panasonic CineLive cameras with Canon lenses for a cinematic aesthetic, Sony FR7 cameras mounted on Waterbird tracks and Autopod systems for dynamic movement, and ROE Black Quartz LED screens shaped into a distinctive onstage wave using a custom shim system for precise angles. All of these components were essential elements used for the show’s visual storytelling. CT incorporated multiple servers and control systems to help integrate all the functions necessary for the tour. This included Disguise GX3Media Servers, Atmos Shogun Studio 2 monitor-recorders, and StageRacer 2 complete optical fiber transmission solution for broadcasting. CT’s role was to make sure the team could achieve their creative ideas by managing the full touring video system, providing consistency and quality across continents. The company’s integration approach allowed the touring crew to operate efficiently across venues from Singapore’s Indoor Stadium to Wembley. Every detail of the tour was optimized for life on the road. Having access to a global network proved essential during the tour. For example, when a minor technical issue arose in Singapore, the local CT office quickly sourced and delivered a replacement part within hours. This ability to tap into a worldwide infrastructure gave the production team peace of mind, knowing that support was never far away, even on the other side of the world. Photos in this piece are credited to Luke Dyson, Jordan Munns, and Mitch Lowe. The Radical Optimism Tour has been a milestone in Dua Lipa’s career, breaking her previous touring records. Through it all, CT’s video system delivered consistent, impressive visuals that transformed the show for stadium audiences while staying practical and easy to tour. As Dua Lipa’s star continues to rise, CT looks forward to supporting the next chapter in her remarkable live career. For information: Creative Technologies ROE Creative Display Disguise Media Servers Atmos Monitor-Recorders Ereca Stage Racer 2 More stage event technologies >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Through a complex array of projection mapping, "America's Tallest Birthday Candle" illuminated the night sky with hourly historical events celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States. How Technology Transformed the Washington Monument into an Immersive Storytelling Platform Through a complex array of projection mapping, "America's Tallest Birthday Candle" illuminated the night sky with hourly historical events celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States. Edited by EE Staff Attractions Mar 23, 2026 Museums On New Year’s Eve, 2026, the Washington Monument didn’t just stand tall, it came alive. As the centerpiece of Freedom 250, the monument was transformed into a dynamic storytelling canvas, which organizers called the “world’s tallest birthday candle.” Over the course of the evening, audiences experienced 20–25-minute narrated projection sequences, cycling through key chapters of American history: discovery, revolution, expansion, and modern innovation. These vivid stories unfolded across the monument’s full height, creating a spectacle that blended artistry, technology, and national pride. No Easy Feat Turning a 555-foot marble obelisk into a seamless projection surface is not as easy as it might sound. The creative and technical teams tasked with the execution faced enormous challenges, including achieving flawless image quality across the monument’s surface, delivering exceptional brightness to stand out against the night sky, and ensuring precise edge blending for a multi-projector setup. In addition, the unpredictability of conditions outdoors and in the winter put additional pressure on the team. There would be a global audience, which meant that the technology had to perform perfectly—without compromise. Images courtesy of Barco. LMG, the event’s technology provider, partnered with Barco to make this vision a reality. The team deployed 10 Barco QDX-4K-45 projectors and 30 UDX-4K-40 projectors to create a powerhouse setup designed for scale, precision, and brilliance. These projectors were chosen for their unmatched brightness and image clarity, ensuring that every historical scene—from the age of discovery to modern innovation—was vividly rendered against the towering marble surface of the Washington Monument. Projector Technology The operation required a remarkable amount of flexibility for the complex outdoor installation. Barco technology was able to meet those requirements with such features as 360-degree orientation, which allowed for creative placement in challenging positions. The also incorporated advanced edge blending capabilities to ensure seamless integration across the 40 projectors. This produced one continuous and flawless image. A wide range of lenses and accessories enabled precise projection angles, overcoming the monument’s unique geometry and environmental constraints. The projection mapping ran smoothly throughout the night, delivering consistent performance and stunning visuals. The Barco QDX-4K-45 is the latest generation projection platform and offers reduced energy usage and lower weight. It features the company’s patented next generation Pulse electronics with higher bandwidth up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@240Hz, plus more processing power for smoother images and sharper pixels. The outcome was spectacular. As midnight approached, the Washington Monument glowed with vibrant imagery, telling America’s story in a way never seen before. The projection mapping ran flawlessly throughout the night, captivating crowds and setting social media ablaze. Thousands gathered in Washington, D.C., while millions tuned in online to witness this unforgettable moment. Images courtesy of Barco. Freedom 250’s kick-off event set a new benchmark for large-scale projection in the U.S., a proud moment of innovation and artistry proving that technology can transform iconic landmarks into immersive storytelling platforms. All of this due to the breathtaking Barco-powered projection mapping equipment. Even beyond hardware, Barco’s global support network and integration expertise gave the team confidence under immense pressure. For more information: Barco QDX-4K45 UDX-4K40 LMG Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The Gröna Lund Amusement Park recently inaugurated some new rides, including a refurbished “Blå Tåget” ride. Stockholm, Sweden Amusement Park Features Synchronized AV System The Gröna Lund Amusement Park recently inaugurated some new rides, including a refurbished “Blå Tåget” ride. Kreativ Teknik Theme Parks Jun 4, 2025 The “Blå Tåget” ride went through a total makeover. This ride is a ghost train loaded with new chills, thrills, and effects especially designed for visitors’ enjoyment. The train passes through several chambers, each filled with skeletons, scarecrows, rats, wolves, fire, lightning, ghosts, and more. The setting inside the ride was designed by artist Magnus Sörman and the entrance to the ride was designed by artist Joakim Hansén. For the technical portions of the adventure-ride, Kreativ Teknik was contacted by Gröna Lund. Kreativ Teknik, a Swedish-based company that mainly works with lighting, control systems, and effects, selected Medialon to be part of the project. Kreativ Teknik delivered a total solution including lighting, smoke, video projectors, control system, as well as the programming of the entire ride’s special effects. One Medialon Showmaster Pro embedded show controller controls and synchronizes the entire AV system. Medialon controls everything from light and sound to lightning, smoke-effects, movements of the animatronics, and video, which are continuously timed and trigged by the exact positions of the train’s chariots. “It was surprisingly quick and easy to set the timings of the animatronics together with the effects. I really liked the system and I want to continue to work with it in my future projects” says Marcus Persson, Project Manager and CEO at Kreativ Teknik. “We think that the project has been carried out really well and it’s been done with great interest and commitment,” Peter Osbeck, Ride Manager at Gröna Lund said. For more information: Gröna Lund Amusement Park Home Kreativ Teknik Home Medialon Home Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Blending creativity, innovation, and technology helped make this Comic-Con event light up. Wicked Technology on Stage at Comic-Con Blending creativity, innovation, and technology helped make this Comic-Con event light up. Edited by EE Staff Stage Events Nov 25, 2025 Held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt’s Seaport Ballroom, the audience members for the Her Universe Fashion Show experienced a Wicked -themed immersive lobby featuring pop ups such as a KISS nail booth, photo ops, film props and costumes, and LEGO big builds. From elaborate couture fashion and musical performances to a technology enhanced magical runway entrance by Eckstein herself, the event was designed to captivate and inspire. Her Universe images courtesy of Mark Edwards Photography. The runway serves as the stage for a group of selected designers who created and showcased their designs—some of which were inspired by the Wicked fandom—during the 2025 Her Universe Fashion Show. At the end of the night, Lynleigh Sato and Caitlin Beards were chosen by both the audience and an expert panel of judges as the winning designers. They were awarded a cash prize of $2,000 USD each and have been offered the opportunity to design a fashion collection with Her Universe. Central to this vision was the transformation of the stage into the World of Oz, a feat made possible by ALTRD Projections and Barco’s state-of-the-art projectors. Delivering Impactful Visuals This year’s production presented a unique spatial and creative challenge: how to deliver high-impact visuals across four separate projection surfaces. The team needed a solution that delivered consistent brightness, sharp resolution, and vibrant color across each of the four side screens—two on each side of the stage—while maintaining visual cohesion with the central LED display. For the immersive experience of the show, it was critical to attain seamless integration and high performance across all of these distinct surfaces. Four high-performance Barco UDX-4K40 projectors, known for their unmatched brightness, 4K resolution, and color fidelity, were instrumental in creating a cohesive, large-scale projection canvas of the four side screens that framed the runway. The UDX’ ability to deliver consistent, vibrant imagery across wide surfaces allowed the creative team at ALTRD Projections to design and execute a fully immersive runway backdrop. The visuals were crisp, dynamic, and emotionally resonant, bringing the magical world of Oz to life. Product image courtesy of Barco. The projectors handled complex motion graphics and color-rich content with ease, ensuring that every detail was rendered with cinematic precision. Barco’s technology didn’t just support the show’s visuals, it elevated them, enabling a level of storytelling and spectacle that matched the ambition of the designers and performers. The result was a flawless fusion of fashion and technology. Her Universe images courtesy of Mark Edwards Photography. The visuals created by the Barco projectors were meant to provide a wickedly memorable evening for attendees by elevating the entire production and immersing the audience in a fantastical experience that matched the creativity of the designs on the runway. The show drew record attendance and rave reviews, with fans and judges alike praising the visual storytelling and technical excellence. By blending creativity and innovation, Barco was a committed technology partner enabling Her Universe to push the boundaries of fashion and fandom once again. The Her Universe Fashion Show, now in its 11th year, has become a cornerstone of San Diego Comic-Con, celebrating fandom through fashion. Presented by Universal and hosted by Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein, the 2025 edition was themed “Defying Fashion: Fashion That Defies Expectations” inspired by the popular Wicked franchise. This year’s show reached new heights in creativity, inclusivity, and visual spectacle. For more information: Barco UDX-4K40 FLEX Her Universe See other theatre and stage case studies >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

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

Pulled from aviation technology for pilot feedback and arcade games like Astro’s Playroom and Cyberpunk 2077, haptic feedback is used in movie trailers — among numerous other applications. Haptic Feedback Rumbles Your iPhone for the F1 Movie Trailer Pulled from aviation technology for pilot feedback and arcade games like Astro’s Playroom and Cyberpunk 2077, haptic feedback is used in movie trailers — among numerous other applications. Terry Persun Film and TV Aug 13, 2025 Sports The latest trailer for F1:The Movie , when viewed in the Apple TV+ App on an iPhone running iOS 18.4 or later, uses haptic feedback to provide the feel of the car engine as it rumbles into life in the pitlane. Keep watching because additional feedback synchronizes with gear changes and tire squeals as the car races around the track. All photos courtesy of AppleTV You’re familiar with haptic feedback by how your smartphone buzzes when someone calls and how game controllers shake, buzz, and rumble to make your experience feel more real. Haptic feedback has been around since the 1970s and is the feedback used on surgical robots so that doctors can maintain their feel of what’s going on during surgery. For this reason, the technology is also used in training simulators where soon-to-be doctors can experience how tissues, veins, and organs feel without using a human body. The automotive industry has incorporated haptic feedback as part of their Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for safety reasons—such as alerting drivers to potential hazards like lane departure and collision warnings. In manufacturing, haptics is used as feedback on robots allowing them to detect when there are product inconsistencies. Subtle variations in the texture of specific products can alert the robot to send an alarm to the supervisor to employ a human to inspect the anomaly. Even interactive product displays are using haptic feedback to allow customers to feel the texture, weight, or other physical properties of a product in a virtual setting. This adds to the information companies can now provide a customer before a purchase is made. The haptic technology market is estimated to be worth over $3.9 Billion. As companies like Apple explore its many applications, this market will only grow larger. And to that end, the new F1: The Movie trailer may be the start of a new experiential way to enjoy all sorts of entertainment. For more information: Apple F1: The Movie Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

What happens when you take fictional characters and bring them to life? How does this change interactions with humans? And how does it all work? Can These Robots Bring Enchantment to the World? Meet the Mirokai What happens when you take fictional characters and bring them to life? How does this change interactions with humans? And how does it all work? Terry Persun Stage Events Sep 23, 2025 Cool Stuff Enchanted Tools, founded by Jérôme Monceaux, recently unveiled the Mirokaï, the prototype of a new generation of humanoid robots that are both wondrous and useful. The Mirokaï are endearing robot characters that were created as half-child, half-animal, fox-like creatures from outer space. Two of them are able to come to Earth: Miroki (the yellow one) and Miroka (the orange one). According to the characters’ strong backstory and the characters’ design, developed with the help of French animation expertise, the Mirokaï have been given an extra element of soul. Because the company believes that robotics can re-introduce a touch of enchantment to the world, rather than dehumanizing it, the team at Enchanted Tools aim to revolutionize robotics by improving the acceptability of robots to promote their large-scale adoption. A Brief Backstory Far, far away in the cosmos, there is a planet inhabited by benevolent beings who have achieved a state of harmony. These creatures of light, the Mirokaï, have guided humanity along the path of otherness since the dawn of time. From cave paintings to the first writings and melodies, they have inspired humankind down through the centuries. According to this backstory, for the first time, two of them have passed through the portal that separates our two worlds and have come to our aid in person. “I'm not perfect, but I'll do my best,” Miroki declares in a presentation video, before jumping into space and entering our reality. His spirit then slips into a kind of spacesuit—the robot prototype developed by Enchanted Tools—to create social bonds and a sense of unity. With this in mind, Enchanted Tools pooled the creativity of animation experts and industrial designers to change how we think about robots. “We were able to create a robot with personality, a robot with a depth that no machine has ever had. This is a disruptive and innovative approach to robot design,” says Monceaux. The challenge when creating the Mirokaï was not only to create robots that people would accept, but also ones they would find useful. This meant meeting three challenges of robotics. Automated navigation in semi-standardized spaces: Perched on a rolling ball, the Mirokaï move and can be moved—in any direction. If one gets in the way, a gentle push with a finger will make it roll away, whereas a two-legged or track-mounted robot would need to be lifted. Miroki and Mirokais are easy to use and to handle, which is an essential feature for mobility in social and work environments. Automated gripping of objects: the Mirokaï hands are uniquely designed to grip special handles—or runes , to continue the fantasy narrative—that users can attach to objects they want the robot to lift. The radical simplicity of this all-purpose handle allows both Miroka and Miroki to achieve a 97% grip success rate, where market standard is about 60%. This is essential because a tool that fails 40% of the time is not satisfactory. Semantic and emotional interactions with untrained users: Each Mirokaï is capable of the level of interaction required to functionally understand and execute voice commands. Overall, the Mirokaï are simple robots. They are not the best at gripping, navigation, or interaction, but are adequate in all three areas to accomplish multiple tasks, including moving objects within a social environment. With the ability to carry loads up to 3 kg, Miroki and Miroka can be of use in all kinds of hospitality, transit, and leisure venues where staff recruitment can be difficult and where human interaction must take priority over logistics, such as hospitals, retirement homes, airports, trade shows, hotels, restaurant, etc. By means of simple voice instructions, the robot will be able to carry out tasks to make people's lives significantly easier. Presently, it is possible to encounter them—in testing—at AP-HP (Parisian hospitals), at the Cancer Institute in Montpellier with sick children, as well as in retirement homes in the USA. Several universities around the world have also purchased Mirokaï to use for research. Technical Challenges A major challenge in the design and build of the Mirokaï was that the company only had one year to complete the project. This meant that they had to find reliable products that were suitable for prototyping and could then ramp up to industrial scale production. According to Monceaux, “Working with maxon was the obvious thing to do—it was the safe choice.” The maxon team assisted Enchanted Tools with product design as well as in selection of the motor types while taking into consideration all of the technical constraints of the project. Chosen for the ball bot, were three the EC-i 40 motors with integrated planetary gearboxes. These motors provide maintenance-free operation and use an electronic controller to ensure high-precision speed and torque control. Other axes, such as arm joints, used 22mm diameter brushless DC (BLDC) motors from the company’s ECX torque range. BLDC motors from maxon are dynamic, durable, and highly efficient, providing long service life and higher speeds than comparable motors on the market. According to Kevin Schwartz, sales engineer responsible for Enchanted Tools at maxon France, and Max Erick Busse-Grawitz, Technology Transfer Manager at maxon International, “Because the application was in the area of autonomous robotics, where the systems needed to support themselves, and where the actuators are consequently both part of the solution and also part of the problem (due to weight, inertia, and size), we proposed motors with high power density and a high torque-to-inertia ratio; in other words, a low mechanical time constant, and gearboxes with high efficiency and high torque density.” The objective was to achieve a balance between technical performance and production cost. *All robot images courtesy of Enchanted Tools *All motor images courtesy of maxon. For information: maxon https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us EC-I 40 Brushless Motor https://www.maxongroup.com/maxon/view/product/488607 https://www.maxongroup.com/maxon/view/product/488607 Enchanted Tools https://enchanted.tools/ Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next