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

A home appliance company needed a custom solution to power the water and air pumps in an at-home "countertop garden" for microgreens. Countertop Growing System Uses Custom Plug-and-Play Motor A home appliance company needed a custom solution to power the water and air pumps in an at-home "countertop garden" for microgreens. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jul 7, 2026 Food A major home appliance manufacturer required a motor partner capable of delivering a value-added, cost-effective solution for their appliance, while also improving manufacturing efficiency. The technical requirements were strict and specific. The company wanted a NEMA 11 Hybrid Rotary Step Motor operating at 1.8 o per step that could operate at speeds up to 1,000 rpm using a 24 Volt power supply. Images courtesy of Dings’ Motion. After some research into the right solution for their specific needs, the manufacturer turned to Dings Motion. The motor powers the water and air pumps to automate plant nourishment. Through a series of collaborative meetings, the engineering team at Dings Motion were able to work closely with the client to develop a uniquely designed plug-and-play motor solution. Specific customizations were required to make the appliance work with efficiency and precision through a fully integrated package under a single part number. Besides the motor, the package required custom cables similar to those used in 3D printers, a custom wiring harness that was integrating two motors into one connection, and a component labeling system that simplified and sped up assembly times. The custom motor solution delivered by Dings Motion provided significant operational improvements over previous designs, plus enhanced both efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the final product. Overall, the home appliance manufacturer was able to reduce the need for additional cable management in the single plug-and-play solution, which also lowered material and labor costs—making assembly 50 percent faster. For information: Dings’ Motion Custom Solutions Read more kitchen and food applications >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The Technology Behind Protecting Casino Assets, Both Money and Equipment EE Staff Mini Story Oct 27, 2025 Casinos need to be conscious of every detail of their business to remain profitable. The casino floor includes a wide variety of high-value equipment—slot machines, poker tables, roulette wheels, baccarat tables, pit podiums, drop slides, and more—that must be closely monitored and maintained. One answer to this challenge included the GAO RFID asset tracking system that’s able to provide comprehensive information such as service history, maintenance schedules, and current status. Ensuring that equipment is working optimally not only helps keep the gaming environment fair but also safeguards the casino’s bottom line. Learn about the company’s full capabilities here . For more information: GAO RFID *Las Vegas strip photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Generative AI will expand scenes and enhance characters The Wizard of Oz at Sphere in Las Vegas Will Use Google’s AI to Create an Immersive Experience Generative AI will expand scenes and enhance characters Joe Gillard Film and TV Jun 7, 2025 Stage Events Google and Sphere Entertainment, the immersive entertainment venue in Las Vegas, Nevada, announced a partnership to develop The Wizard of Oz at Sphere using generative AI (gen AI), according to a press release . The companies say the collaboration will involve engineering work, as well as “thousands of creators, coders, VFX artists, and more,” to present the immersive experience which opens in Las Vegas on August 28, 2025. Google Cloud and DeepMind will deploy Gemini models Veo 2 and Imagen 3 to enhance the film's resolution, extend backgrounds, and digitally recreate existing characters who would otherwise not appear on the same screen. Sphere is also using Google Cloud's AI-optimized infrastructure to support the data and computational demands of immersive experiences, with The Wizard of Oz at Sphere processing 1.2 petabytes of data over the course of the project to date. Google is one of the many tech giants ramping up AI across multiple domains, though the film industry, in particular, has been somewhat hesitant to embrace AI . Nevertheless, Google is moving forward in this attempt to combine cinema with AI for an immersive entertainment experience. "Our partnership with Sphere on The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is a great example of pushing the boundaries of generative AI to deliver exciting new experiences for audiences – and new opportunities for studios and filmmakers," said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. "We are honored to play a role in such an ambitious project to bring a classic piece of Americana to an entirely new generation of audiences." Google AI and The Wizard of Oz at Sphere Originally released in 1939, The Wizard of Oz was filmed using what was at the time a revolutionary, three-strip Technicolor 35mm motion picture camera and was only the third Hollywood production to bring this color process to cinema audiences. Google and Sphere are quick to point out that this same film is part of their own attempt to innovate nearly 90 years later. Sphere will bring an immersive version of The Wizard of Oz to its 160,000-square-foot interior display plane, using Google AI alongside traditional VFX and film techniques to expand scenes and enhance characters. Google Cloud and DeepMind are employing Gemini, Veo and Imagen models, as well as Google Cloud infrastructure such as the company's custom AI accelerators, Tensor Processor Units (TPUs), Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE), and more. One technique being used for the film is called “super resolution,” intended to “intelligently enhance” the film's resolution, filling in missing pixels and creating an ultra-crisp 16k image, essential for Sphere's 16k x 16k resolution interior display plane. Other techniques include “outpainting” to expand the film's visual scope for Sphere's immersive environment, and extend the backgrounds and characters, “performance generation” for storytelling techniques that allow multiple characters to remain on screen for extended periods, and context window for ensuring that the enhanced visuals remain consistent throughout the film. "The power of generative AI, combined with Google's infrastructure and expertise, is helping us to achieve something extraordinary," said Jim Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO, Sphere Entertainment. "We needed a partner who could push boundaries alongside our teams at Sphere Studios and Magnopus, and Google was the only company equipped to meet the challenge on the world's highest resolution LED screen." Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The roof technology used at the campus at Florida Polytechnic University is a masterful use of design, installation, and implementation. University Roof Uses Operable Louver Arms to Shade Students at Any Time of Day The roof technology used at the campus at Florida Polytechnic University is a masterful use of design, installation, and implementation. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Jun 16, 2026 Architecture Florida Polytechnic University is home to the first building with operable louver arms. Appropriately located on the roof of the Science Technology Building, the hydraulics used to move the roof was designed, built, and maintained by Atlantic Hydraulic Systems in conjunction with internationally renowned architect, Santiago Calatrava, who designed the campus. The building has won 20 international awards and was voted one of the sixteen most breathtaking buildings in the world. Fun and challenging engineering applications has always been a staple at Atlantic Hydraulic Systems, and they were honored to be selected to design, manufacture, install, and commission the hydraulics and controls systems used for the unique and distinctive roof raising project. The white domed building is a movable, workable piece of art considered to be one of the top ten new building designs of the 21 st century. Images courtesy of Atlantic Hydraulic Systems. This 16,000-square-foot innovation is the cornerstone of the new campus in Lakeland, FL—less than 20 minutes from Orlando. The building incorporates hydraulic power along with a programmable logic controller (PLC), distributed I/O system, and a control loop software system for positioning. Ninety-four hydraulic cylinders in lengths from 24-inches to 62-inches are used to position sixty-foot tall louvers that track with the sun. The hydraulic cylinders, ranging in bore from 3.25-inches to 8-inches and having a 59.6-inch stroke, are used to pull the end of the louver over a fulcrum point to lift the opposite end of the louver. The idea was to provide optimal building shade throughout the day in the Florida sun. Images courtesy of Atlantic Hydraulic Systems. The cool part of this application is the ability to control each of the 94 louvers individually using a hydraulic cylinder and manifold. Separate control of each cylinder allows the system to create any roof shape desired—which means that the overall shape of the roof can change throughout the day. Final position accuracy is specified at ±0.25 degrees. The system also incorporates an advanced weather detection system utilizing anemometer and lighting detection feedback, which can shut the roof down in a matter of seconds if necessary. Images courtesy of Atlantic Hydraulic Systems. The movable louvers are controlled by an Allen Bradley (by Rockwell Automation) ControlLogix PLC for control, feedback, and operator interface. The controller talks to each of the 94 hydraulic cylinders that move the louvers up and down, programming the individually articulated pieces to follow the sun’s position to maximize shade. Location feedback is done using inclinometers for direct data rather than having to incorporate linear to angular motion lookup tables. Each hydraulic system included two roof mounted units with two 60 hp, Parker PD75 industrial pumps, two 10 hp, Parker PD16 pumps for sun tracking, and a 300-gallon oil reservoir with bladder air containment system. Images courtesy of Atlantic Hydraulic Systems. This unprecedented design and implementation has multiple safety capabilities incorporated, such as wind protection, protection from lightning strikes, complete louver closure locks for bad weather, and loss of power protection. For information: Atlantic Hydraulic Systems Santiago Calatrava Parker PD Series Rockwell Automation Read more architectural case studies >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Van Nuys, California, June 25, 2014—When Sebastian Lindstrom, co-founder of What Took You So Long, and his team journeyed to Liberia for their latest documentary, they employed an iPhone 5s equipped with the iPro Lens System® by Schneider Optics iPhone Lenses Used in Film Shoot Van Nuys, California, June 25, 2014—When Sebastian Lindstrom, co-founder of What Took You So Long, and his team journeyed to Liberia for their latest documentary, they employed an iPhone 5s equipped with the iPro Lens System® by Schneider Optics Terry Persun Film and TV Jun 3, 2025 “We are a small documentary production company that specializes in supporting non-profits and development entities around the world,” explains Lindstrom. “Our method of filmmaking depends on high-quality, lightweight equipment.” For the documentary about women with obstetric fistula, which was co-funded by the United Nations Populations Fund, the team took two Canon 5Ds to the West African country. And for the most audience-engaging results, they also took a 7D and an iPhone to capture slow motion and extreme close-up footage. “We shot with the iPhone 5s ─ mostly in 720p at 120-fps ─ and iPro Super Wide and Macro lenses,” he says. “The Macro captures the same details as a $1000 lens would. It’s amazing how close you can get with it ─ so close, we were able to position it just inches from a person’s iris,” which is shown in the opening sequence of the video. On the opposite end of the spectrum, “The iPro Super Wide frames a much bigger picture of the world than the native camera inside the iPhone,” Lindstrom adds. “While at a stadium in Monrovia for a big soccer game between Liberian and Ghanaian teams, the president of Liberia came out on the field to wish everybody ‘good luck.’ The iPro Super Wide lens enabled us to spontaneously capture innovative wide-angle shots for slow-motion content that will take audiences’ imaginations to the next level when watching our videos. In retrospect, we should have left the 7D at home, because the daylight footage we caught with the iPhone and iPro lenses was superior ─ and it was much easier to pack.” While the DSLR revolution gave the world access to smaller, less expensive cameras, Lindstrom notes that “Filming with a phone takes it to another level, as you can quickly position angles that your DSLR would require a jib for, and it’s something most people travel with anyway. And you could never get smooth traveling shots by holding your DSLR outside of a car window with your hand like we did with the iPhone. We believe that the iPro Lens System used in conjunction with the iPhone 5s for slow motion filming has the potential to become an important, value-added component for any type of documentary work. We plan to use them in all our upcoming shoots around the world as an integral part of our DSLR filming.” For the past five years, What Took You So Long has worked within more than 70 developing countries. “Some of the areas we travel to may not take kindly to visiting filmmakers,” he says. “So it’s very beneficial to be able to shoot with the iPhone ─ now with professional-grade lenses that are easy to conceal.” For more information: What Took You So Long Home Schneider Optics Lenses Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

After running for decades on its original electro-hydraulic drive, Timber Lake Playhouse’s revolving stage system received significant behind-the-scenes upgrades in recent years. Upgrading a Small Town Theatre's Rotating Stage After running for decades on its original electro-hydraulic drive, Timber Lake Playhouse’s revolving stage system received significant behind-the-scenes upgrades in recent years. Ryan Poethke, ShowFab Stage Events Mar 13, 2026 Timber Lake Playhouse (TLP) is a 371-seat theatre that sits on a 10-acre campus, which includes housing for its staff, plus the associated shops and administration facilities needed to put on multiple performances every summer. Images courtesy of Ryan Poethke. From an engineering perspective, what makes TLP especially interesting is its semi-thrust stage—extending into the audience—featuring a 36-foot diameter section of the floor that rotates under electromechanical control. This moving floor, known simply as a “revolve” in theatre terms, allows scenery to be set up backstage, then rotated into place for quick scene changes. While the basic idea of a revolving stage seems fundamental, there has been significant progress in power transmission technology since TLP’s founding over 60 years ago. Changing Technologies in 2017 Originally, the revolve system was powered by an electro-hydraulic drive, consisting of a 5hp electric motor as the input power source, driving a hydraulic pump. In turn, the hydraulic fluid was used to operate a hydraulic motor which turned the stage through a large gearbox. This worked for decades, but eventually became unreliable and difficult to maintain. To improve this situation, I volunteered to upgrade the system to full electrical control. Having spent a summer working at the Playhouse, and now being employed as a controls engineer for ShowFab, which specializes in set building and entertainment fabrication, I possessed the right combination of experience and expertise needed to complete the upgrade. These images show the electric motor, gearbox, and associated pulleys, cables, and tensioning weights, all hidden underneath the theatre’s stage revolve. After removing the original hydraulic drive, an electrical-motor-driven gearbox was installed. Pulleys and sheaves, interconnected in part with a continuous loop of aircraft cable and tensioned by weights to establish the necessary friction, transferred the rotational motion to the stage. This robust mechanical setup quietly handles the system’s massive torque and moderate speed requirements without taking away from the experience of the play itself. To control the 240V three-phase electrical motor in both directions and at varying speeds, I incorporated an AutomationDirect GS2 AC variable frequency drive (VFD). Because the site happened to have electrical power available in a somewhat uncommon 240VAC open delta 3-phase format, the VFD was readily configured to operate the motor, with a small user-friendly control panel, to spin the massive stage turntable in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction without issue. Motor Control Upgrades for 2025 This GS2 drive setup worked great for nearly two decades, but eventually the VFD began experiencing some intermittent faults, which were easily cleared but created a nuisance for users. In 2025, the team realized it was time for a refit. Again, I was able to volunteer my time. We took this opportunity to provide a few safety and performance upgrades, as well. For the upgrade, I selected the latest version of the AutomationDirect VFD family, the GS23, which includes the same functionality as the older unit but also offers many enhanced features. Of special importance for this project, the newer VFD could also accept a single-phase input to produce a three-phase output needed for velocity control, forward/reverse operation, and compatibility with the existing motor. The form factor of the new drive closely matched that of the older unit, allowing a new enclosure subpanel to be fabricated in advance to support a quick change-out. The GS23 provides easy-to-use stage control for the TLP team. While heavy industry commonly uses three-phase power to enable superior load carrying capacity for a given electrical load, the rotating stage was the last remaining piece of equipment at TLP that required three-phase power at the time of installation. With the new drive in operation, the three-phase requirement could be dropped, simplifying the facility’s electrical distribution system. Enhanced Operator Interface and Safety In addition to the VFD panel, the system includes an operator console with a direction switch, run/stop buttons, a rotation speed potentiometer, indicator lights, and a fault reset button, all sources from AutomationDirect. The operator console shown here uses several buttons, lights, and an e-stop button to provide a simple way for stagehands to operate the stage revolve. Within the VFD panel, the latest upgrade now includes an AutomationDirect Reer MOSAIC safety controller to monitor emergency stop (e-stop) buttons located at both the operator console and the stage manager’s position. If either e-stop button is pressed, the safety controller activates the VFD’s industry-standard safe torque off (STO) function, which causes the drive motor to coast to a stop. Another unique feature of the design regards how the cooling fan for the VFD enclosure is controlled. The goal was to turn the fan on whenever the VFD is started, and then to continue to run the fan for a period of time after the VFD is stopped to provide the desired cooling. This could be achieved with a hardwired relay, or with a small programmable logic controller (PLC), or by using the PLC function built into the G23 VFD. However, in this case it was determined that a practical way to achieve this control would be to use a safety controller auxiliary output. Designers appreciate it when they have multiple options for creating a solution. With these new improvements, the Timber Lake Playhouse is set up to reliably entertain audiences for decades to come, rotating the stage smoothly in either direction for scene transitions. What is going on behind—or more literally, below—the scenes may be interesting to stagehands and engineers, but when everything runs smoothly, the audience can get lost in the story itself. For more information: AutomationDirect GS23 Safety Controls ShowFab Timber Lake Playhouse Read more theater case studies >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

See how the Legoland Shanghai Resort integrated technology and creativity to produce fun and interesting water systems for a fully immersive experience. The Water Systems Behind the Most Technologically Advanced Legoland See how the Legoland Shanghai Resort integrated technology and creativity to produce fun and interesting water systems for a fully immersive experience. Terry Persun Theme Parks Oct 21, 2025 The core mission of nearly every theme park is to offer a dynamic blend of rides and attractions that capture the imagination while delivering an experience that feels both immersive and authentic. Legoland has achieved this vision across its ten operating parks and resorts worldwide, with four additional destinations currently in development. At the heart of these experiences lies technology that is robust, precise, and deliberately unobtrusive. Reliability and safety are paramount, enabling guests to embrace the thrill, wonder, and excitement of each attraction while feeling fully secure. The Legoland Shanghai Resort represents a milestone in this tradition, positioning itself as one of the most technologically advanced Legoland properties to date—particularly in its aquatic environments. Developed by Merlin Entertainments, creatively master-planned by FORREC, and engineered by Cloward H2O, the resort brings together world-class expertise to craft memorable experiences tailored to Legoland’s family audience. Images courtesy of FORREC. One example of this collaboration is the Water-Town Boat Tour, a signature family-friendly attraction. The ride immerses visitors in a lovingly detailed recreation of a traditional Chinese water town, where Lego storytelling blends seamlessly with cultural motifs. The journey culminates in a striking miniature Lego skyline of modern Shanghai. Each partner played a distinct role in realizing the attraction: FORREC shaped the thematic narrative and guest journey, Merlin designed operations to accommodate large visitor volumes, and Cloward H2O provided the aquatic engineering—integrating propulsion systems and water technologies that make the experience both seamless and safe. The technical backbone of the Water-Town Boat Tour reflects this integration. Hydraulic pumps maintain consistent water levels and stabilize docking platforms while ensuring full accessibility compliance. Flow within the canal is carefully regulated to eliminate turbulence, and water circulation systems operate continuously to preserve clarity and quality. To achieve this, the ride incorporates eccentric reducing strainers, sand filters, regenerative media filters, up to eight chlorination systems, and UV sterilizers—all working in concert to maintain safety and visual appeal. Beyond individual attractions, Legoland Shanghai Resort is designed as a fully immersive experience. Its diverse lands include Lego City, the Legoland Hotel, and Lego Friends. Within the Lego Friends area, highlights such as the Friends’ Water Party combine interactive play with aquatic fun, featuring water races, beach parties, and build-a-boat challenges. Each of these experiences is underpinned by the same principles: precise engineering, guest safety, and seamless operational efficiency. For example, flow rates across all water features are meticulously calibrated to balance fun and safety. Splash zones are engineered for predictable spray patterns, ensuring guests enjoy refreshing play without becoming uncomfortably drenched. The resort’s waterways are carefully engineered to prevent stagnation, ensuring water remains clear, clean, and safe for guests. Integrated hydraulic systems further enhance efficiency by reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable performance. In practice, the resort employs everything from two 4-horsepower pumps to larger 30- and 40-horsepower systems where needed. Circulation zones across the park are strategically designed to prevent stagnation, keeping water consistently clear and safe. Integrated hydraulic systems connect lagoons with surrounding waterways, reducing pumping energy requirements and contributing to sustainability. Images courtesy of FORREC. These and more achievements were only possible through the close collaboration of FORREC, Merlin Entertainments, and Cloward H2O, whose combined expertise shaped both the creative vision and the technical precision behind the resort’s aquatic design. FORREC defined the spatial and thematic design, Merlin oversaw gameplay mechanics and operational logistics, and Cloward H2O engineered the hydraulic and electrical systems that controlled propulsion and splash timing. The result is a resort that stands out for both its creativity and its technical sophistication. The ability to coordinate such a wide range of components into a streamlined, reliable operation is what ensures Legoland Shanghai Resort can deliver joyful, safe, and lasting memories for its guests. For more information connect with the firms below: Cloward H2O Merlin Entertainments FORREC Read more about theme parks >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Integrated electronic fuse technology helps console designers protect critical power rails while reducing system complexity. Modern Gaming Consoles Require Reliable Power Protection Integrated electronic fuse technology helps console designers protect critical power rails while reducing system complexity. Edited by EE Staff Games Apr 28, 2026 From esports arenas and streaming studios to home gaming systems and immersive XR platforms, modern gaming hardware powers some of the most demanding interactive entertainment experiences ever created. These systems rely on high-performance processors, graphics engines, and high-speed connectivity to deliver real-time gameplay with cinematic realism. Behind these experiences lies a complex power distribution network that must support rapidly changing electrical loads while protecting sensitive electronics. When subsystems ramp up simultaneously—such as during graphics-intensive gameplay—overcurrent conditions can occur. Preventing these electrical faults is critical to maintaining system reliability and uninterrupted gameplay. Figure 1 shows the circuit blocks in an example gaming console. All circuit blocks require protection from overcurrent conditions. Figure 1: An example block diagram of a gaming console. In a recent console design, engineers addressed this challenge by implementing integrated electronic fuse (eFuse) protection within the system’s power management architecture. The Challenge of Dynamic Power Loads Gaming consoles operate under highly variable electrical loads. A sudden graphics-intensive scene or network activity spike can cause several subsystems—including processors, memory, graphics engines, and networking hardware—to increase current consumption simultaneously. External peripherals introduce additional risk. Controllers, charging accessories, and other connected devices can create short circuits or draw excessive current through high-speed interfaces, including USB and ethernet. If these conditions are not quickly detected and controlled, they can lead to: Overheating of system components Damage to printed circuit board (PCB) traces Unstable system behavior or unexpected shutdowns Permanent failure of critical integrated circuits Traditional protection approaches rely on discrete components such as fuses, MOSFET switches, and current-sense circuitry. While effective, these designs increase component count and consume valuable PCB space. As gaming consoles become more compact and complex, designers are increasingly adopting integrated protection solutions that combine multiple safeguards in a single device. Integrated Power Protection In the console design, engineers implemented an electronic fuse (eFuse) device to protect a key 5-V power rail that supplies several internal subsystems and external interfaces. Figure 2 presents a block diagram of an eFuse and a sample application circuit, requiring only three external components. Two capacitors filter noise on the DC line, and the resistor programs the current limit. Figure 2: Example eFuse functional block diagram (left) and typical application (right), providing overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, and overtemperature protection, as well as other safety features. An eFuse operates as an intelligent load switch that continuously monitors multiple conditions. When abnormal events occur—such as excessive current draw, overvoltage conditions, or overheating—the device quickly disconnects the load to prevent damage. Unlike conventional fuses that permanently open after a fault, an eFuse can electronically shut down and automatically restore operation once the abnormal condition has cleared. This capability is particularly valuable in gaming systems, where temporary disturbances such as peripheral faults or transient electrical events can occur. Monitoring and Fault Isolation At the heart of the protection device is a low-resistance power MOSFET that connects the input supply to the protected circuit. Internal monitoring circuitry measures current, voltage, and temperature in real time. If any single parameter exceeds safe operating limits, control logic rapidly disables the MOSFET, isolating the fault before damage to the system occurs. In the console implementation, the protection device supports load currents up to approximately 5 A on a 5-V supply rail. Engineers can program the current limit using an external resistor, allowing the protection threshold to match the requirements of the specific subsystem. Additional integrated features include: Soft-start control to limit inrush current during power-up Thermal shutdown protection Undervoltage lockout to ensure stable system startup Together, these features allow the device to act as a centralized protection controller for the console’s power path. Efficiency and Thermal Management Thermal management is already a major design consideration in high-performance gaming hardware. Protection components must therefore operate efficiently to avoid adding unnecessary heat. An eFuse protection device features a low on-resistance of roughly 50 milliohms, minimizing power dissipation during normal operation. The device also consumes only about 200 microamps of operating current, allowing it to support power-sensitive subsystems without significantly impacting system efficiency. These characteristics help maintain the thermal balance of the console while still providing robust fault protection. Reducing System Complexity Another advantage of integrated protection devices is the ability to reduce component count. Traditional protection circuits may require multiple discrete components—including fuses, switches, and sensing circuitry—to implement the same functionality. By integrating these functions into a single device, engineers can simplify power-management design while conserving PCB space. In the console application, the eFuse protection device is housed in a compact 2 mm × 2 mm surface-mount package, allowing it to be placed close to sensitive subsystems without increasing board area requirements (see Figure 3). Figure 3: An eFuse LS0505EVD22L housed in a compact DFN2x2_8L package with pinout diagram. This compact footprint is particularly important in gaming consoles, where multilayer PCBs must accommodate processors, memory devices, wireless radios, and high-speed interfaces within a limited space. Preparing for Future Gaming Platforms As gaming technology continues to evolve toward virtual reality, augmented reality, and increasingly powerful graphics hardware, electrical power demands will continue to grow. Ensuring reliable power distribution in these systems will remain a critical engineering priority. Integrated protection technologies such as eFuses provide console designers with a practical way to safeguard complex electronics while maintaining compact designs and efficient operation. By combining fast fault detection, intelligent power control, and small form factors, these solutions help ensure that next-generation gaming platforms remain both powerful and reliable—keeping players immersed in their experiences rather than interrupted by hardware failures. *Images courtesy of Littelfuse. For information: Littelfuse eFuse Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

EE co-founder Terry Persun spoke with Michael Cuaresma of Festo about how applications in entertainment find their way into other industries. WATCH: One-on-One with Michael Cuaresma of Festo EE co-founder Terry Persun spoke with Michael Cuaresma of Festo about how applications in entertainment find their way into other industries. EE Staff Videos Dec 9, 2025 Theme Parks In our most recent conversation with design engineers from various industries, we spent time with Michael Cuaresma, a Mechatronics Applications Engineer for Festo. We got to talk about how and when Michael got interested in becoming an engineer, about his education, and a particular application for the entertainment industry. Michael’s enthusiasm for design came through as the conversation delved deeper into application-specific details. He also mentioned how he started with Festo and the learning curve needed to work with a company with so many different products used in such a wide variety of industries. Watch the interview: For more information: Festo DPMT Product Other videos in our One-on-One series >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Innovation has no bounds when an engineer tackles an industry need and comes up with a single e-mobility concept to fit multiple applications. Electric Mobility Technology Meets Utility With This Highly Versatile Vehicle Innovation has no bounds when an engineer tackles an industry need and comes up with a single e-mobility concept to fit multiple applications. Terry Persun Sports Nov 6, 2025 Cool Stuff E-mobility is flourishing around the world with everything from skateboards to trucks. But what isn’t available is a modular concept that is highly versatile and powerful. Envo has been involved in designing and manufacturing versatile mobility solutions for commuters, recreational use, and for utility operations offering everything from electric bikes, snow bikes, and trikes. Their latest endeavor is the Utility Personal Transporter (UPT). According to Envo Founder and CEO, Ali Kazemkhani, “Our forward-thinking team recognizes significant gaps in the e-mobility industry, particularly between e-bikes and e-cars, for both personal transportation and cargo/utility purposes. These untapped opportunities hold immense potential in the market for products like our new UPT. With it we’re introducing a highly versatile, 4-wheeled mobility platform, with niche futuristic micro-mobility options as clean alternatives to UTV/ATVs, Cars, and Trucks.” The innovative UPT is a powerful, long-range, all-wheel-drive utility platform. This flexible vehicle starts with a skate-board chassis similar to what you might find on a golf cart except that the basic unit doesn’t have a body or seats. Instead, the UPT offers a wide range of possible configurations designed to handle anything from garden/home improvement jobs to snowplows to backcountry rescue vehicle and much more—including equipment carrier on movie/TV sets, camera mounting for motion capture, or for simply ferrying people or equipment from one place to another when converted into a fully covered micro e-car. The direct-drive PMSM (permanent magnet synchronous motor) hub motors were designed in-house because of the specific geometry and features required of the UPT, such as high-efficiency, high-performance, lightweight, and modularity. Afterward, the motors were assembled, wound, and tested at a motor factory before delivery to Envo. Each motor is a 23-pair pole motor that provides speeds up to 60 kph with a maximum torque of 140 Nm. They are IP67 compliant, which means that they are dust-tight and protected from short-term water immersion of up to one meter for thirty minutes. Images courtesy of ENVO. The four wheels are independently controlled and managed through a main VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) mounted inside the main chassis. The VCU controls motor-wheel behavior based on driving demands such as cruise, traction, anti-slip, tank turn, and other driving modes including sport/eco, 2WD, 4WD, and many more. The controller is modular and updatable for a limitless variety of use cases. A dashboard VCU is available with an HMI (Human Machine Interface) that is external to the main chassis. This touchscreen display not only indicates vehicle driving information but also controls all components and accessories that can be added to the vehicle—module by module. Further, the HMI is CarPlay/Android Auto capable for all other apps used in modern cars. Through the use of a CANBUS network, any future electric or powered accessory could be added and controlled by the same HMI dashboard. Anything that can be controlled or monitored by the HMI dashboard can also be controlled remotely. Images courtesy of ENVO. The dashboard VCU is responsible for matching the vehicle user interface with the main VCU, which means that vehicle developers or individuals (including ENVO) will have different options for controlling the powertrain. Handlebar, thumb throttle, brake lever, or steering wheel with pedals are all possible. Even steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire for robotic and autonomous application is capable, while everything communicates with the main VCU to drive the vehicle. The UPT’s modular design, flat floor surface, and array of attachment points are the key to its configurability. This base platform features a fold-up, telescoping steering column for standing operation—plus an adjustable fold-down seat/leaning support—and allows for simple, narrow-profile upright or stacked storage and transport. From there, users can install accessories like high-capacity carriers and trays, a variety of seating options, gear racks, weather protection, and more, plus front and rear hitches for plowing and hauling. With payload capacities of up to 250 kg and towing capacities to 350 kg, the UPT is capable of traveling over 100 km. In addition, the unit boasts 12,000 watts of power harnessing 640 Nm maximum torque. Key design and functionality features include a fully adjustable upright handlebar for use in left, right, or center location; integrated headlights, taillights, and indicators; and multiple attachment points for various configurations. The flat deck allows for maximum cargo capacity and a pass-through area allows storage or transport of longer items. The handlebar and seat fold to allow the UPT to be stackable as well as to provide stand-up and compact storage. Images courtesy of ENVO. While the company continues to beta test the UPT, they expect to start deliveries in less than a year and are already taking pre-orders. The company also has early interest from the likes of law-enforcement groups, rescue teams, hunting/fishing organizations, construction companies, park/forest administrators, commercial farms, entertainment venues, and general consumers. UPT is a mass-customization platform that incorporates standardized modules that assemble into various LEV chassis. The company expects to scale by leveraging its existing supply chain and in partnering with small to medium manufacturers worldwide to deliver locally tailored vehicles for personal, commercial, and government needs. ENVO will provide the IP and upstream components while local partners will build and support the local community. This approach acknowledges the niche nature of the product and its need for deep customization. The goal is to address varied mobility needs using a fully customized mobility solution—the UPT platform. The company is presently seeking partners in the USA, India, China, Europe, Canada, the Middle East, and ANZ for local production. For more information, visit ENVO . More articles about vehicles >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Using nature as a model, researchers decided to incorporate ultrasound sensors to enable tiny drones to navigate under difficult conditions. Inspired by Bats, New Drones Use Ultrasonic Technology to Navigate Using nature as a model, researchers decided to incorporate ultrasound sensors to enable tiny drones to navigate under difficult conditions. Edited by Terry Persun Cool Stuff Jul 7, 2026 Aerospace Palm-sized drones use ultrasound sensors and a unique form of artificial intelligence to navigate through fog, smoke, and other challenging environmental conditions using limited power. A team led by Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) researcher and assistant professor in the Department of Robotics Engineering, Nitin J. Sanket, has approached drone technology in a new way. Inspired by how bats use sound to navigate and hunt, this advanced approach indicates that ultrasound may be a relevant alternative to existing navigation technologies that add weight and cost to a drone that may also falter when used under poor environmental conditions. Bats can accurately navigate in dark, damp, and dusty caves by sending out short chirps and listening to the weak echoes. According to Sanket, “By creating an ultrasound-based system that needs just two tiny sensors and little computation, we can open up opportunities for small aerial robots to perceive their surroundings, make decisions, and independently operate longer in cluttered, hazardous places where current aerial robots struggle.” These drones are perfect for search-and-rescue operations under highly limited conditions. Sanket’s research focuses on robotics inspired by nature, such as bees and bats. The work featured in Science Robotics was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation. Most other autonomous drones use sensors, controllers, cameras, a power source, and sophisticated algorithms to perceive their surroundings and make navigational decisions. Some even collect landscape data by analyzing radio waves or light pulses. These methods are power intensive and costly. Plus, darkness, poor weather, and propeller noise can interfere with their operation. All of this takes time and energy. Images courtesy of WPI. The team led by Sanket customized an X-shaped aerial quadrotor drone about six inches wide with ultrasound sensors and a physical barrier call an acoustic shield to dampen propeller noise. Through deep learning techniques, the team trained the device’s computer to analyze weak echo patterns similar to how a bat brain processes sound to decipher echoes. The drone, weighing about one pound, was tested outdoors in a wooded area and indoors in a laboratory furnished with obstacles such as transparent plastic or metal poles. Some indoor tests took place in darkness with black obstacles, while others took place as the researchers blew fog or snow onto the obstacle course. The drone had enough battery power to operate for about five minutes per flight while navigating the course autonomously. Images courtesy of WPI. The researchers reported that the robot had a success rate of between 72- and 100-percent in navigating through challenging courses during 180 tests. The drone was less successful at dodging thin objects, such as metal poles, and it struggled to avoid slender tree branches, which weakly reflected signals. Future work includes using smaller, lighter devices that could fly longer and improve flight speeds. “In a real search-and-rescue mission, a few more seconds of flight time could mean the difference between life and death for a survivor,” Sanket said. Co-authors with Sanket on the research team included, Manoj Velmurugan, MS ’25; Phillip Brush ’24, MS ’25; Colin Balfour ’26, MS ’27; and Richard Przybyla of TDK InvenSense, Berkeley, Calif. The next step for bat-inspired drones may be to use smaller, lighter devices that could fly longer using the team’s low-power ultrasound-based system, Sanket said. Future work could also improve flight speeds. For information: Worcester Polytechnic Institute National Science Foundation TDK InvenSense Read more about drones >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next