AmeraMex International Receives Orders Totaling $770,000
Toray Receives Reverse Osmosis Membrane Order in United Arab Emirates for The World’s Largest Seawater Desalination Plant
Robots Help Reaching United Nations Goals Of Sustainable Development
IDTechEx Discusses Metal Additive Manufacturing: Don’t Tell Me, Show Me
Digital twins: bringing the future to water management, stated IDRICA, international technology company
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3D printed heat exchanger could be more efficient is more compact and efficient than its conventional counterparts
Laiye eliminates Intelligent Automation risks with first-of-its-kind business results guarantee
AmeraMex International Receives Orders Totaling $1.2 Million
Metal Additive Manufacturing Rebounds to Hit $18 Billion by 2032, Reports IDTechEx
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AmeraMex International Announces Sales of Heavy Equipment Totaling Approximately $ 870,000
AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling $870,000. This brings Y-T-D sales totaling $5.6million. The equipment is expected to ship before the end of the first quarter. The first order consists of one Taylor THDC-955 Loaded Container Handler. The Container Handler was on a three-month, lease-to-purchase program and the customer purchased out the lease. The second and third orders were also for Taylor THDC-955 Loaded Container Handlers. The Handlers just came off lease from a customer in Alaska. One of the Handlers is shipping to a customer in Washington State and the other to a customer in California. For more information and pricing of equipment for the logistics, construction, and forestry industries, or to book a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955. AmeraMex CEO is hosting the Company’s year-ended December 31, 2021, conference call on March 31, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. Pacific. The conference call dial-in number for both U.S. and international callers is 1.201.689.8560. Please dial into the conference center five minutes before the call begins and ask the operator for the AmeraMex conference call. An audio replay of the call will be available from March 31, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time until April 14, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. The replay is accessible by dialing 1.412.317.6671 and entering pin number 13727852.
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AmeraMex International Reports Sales of Heavy Equipment Totaling Approximately $ 900,000
AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling $901,000. This brings Y-T-D sales totaling $4.8 million. The equipment is expected to ship before the end of the first quarter. The first order consists of two Taylor TEC950 Loaded Container Handlers. The Container Handlers are shipping to a California-based dry port. The second order is for a Taylor TX550 Forklift with 55,000 pound capacity. The forklift is shipping to a manufacturing company in Utah. The third order is for a Hyster H210 that has been converted to a hay squeeze. The equipment is shipping to a California-based commercial farmer. The fourth order is for an ASV RT-135 Max F Series Forestry Compact Loader Walkaround. The final order is for a Taylor TEC-950L Loaded Container Handler shipping to Southern California. For more information and pricing of equipment for the logistics, construction, and forestry industries, or to book a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955.
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AmeraMex International Announces Equipment Sales of Approximately $ 1.1 Million
AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling $1,139,000. This brings Y-T-D sales totaling $3.9 million. The refurbished equipment is expected to ship before the end of the first quarter. 1) The first order consists of three Taylor Forklifts, a TX250, TX300 and TX330. All three forklifts are shipping to a California-based sawmill company. 2) There were two different orders for two Taylor XEC207/8 Empty Container Handlers. One is shipping to Washington State and the other to California. 3) The fourth order is for a Hoist Side Pic shipping to a California-based customer. For more information and pricing of equipment for the logistics, construction, and forestry industries, or to book a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955. For more information and pricing of equipment for the logistics, construction, and forestry industries, or to book a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955. For more information and pricing of equipment for the logistics, construction, and forestry industries, or to book a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955.
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Aquarius Spectrum Announces AQSense-Edge
Aquarius Spectrum, a leading provider of acoustic water leak detection solutions in municipal water distribution networks, has announced the launch of its new AQSense-Edge series of Cat-M/NB-IoT correlating sensors. AQSense-Edge represents the next generation in the company’s AQSense Fixed Sensors, a product range designed for continuous pipe monitoring. For over 12 years, Aquarius Spectrum has spearheaded development of innovative systems for the water industry, enabling water utilities to proactively monitor their water distribution network and pinpoint background leaks at an early stage before they surface. Consequently, Aquarius’ worldwide customers report significant reductions in NRW (Non-Revenue Water) and savings in their operational and maintenance costs. The new AQSense-Edge sensor is being heralded by the company as a true a game changer in the water leak detection market, thanks to its compact dimensions, ultra-long 10-year battery life, and superior accuracy powered by an improved correlating algorithm. The AQSense-Edge series supports all water supply pipe materials and diameters, distribution and transmission, and boasts the additional advantage of offering extensive coverage with fewer sensors – typically up to 3 sensors per 1 km of piping. Water leak detection by AQSense-Edge: Aquarius Spectrum's acoustic Cat-M/NB-IoT correlating sensors; Installations can be both aboveground and underground; Leak alerts are classified and presented on a unique dashboard Water leak detection by AQSense-Edge: Aquarius Spectrum's acoustic Cat-M/NB-IoT correlating sensors; Installations can be both aboveground and underground; Leak alerts are classified and presented on a unique dashboard Aquarius Spectrum’s new Cat-M/NB-IoT series includes 3 types of products suitable for different types of installations: AQSense-Edge (AG) - an accelerometer designed for aboveground installation on fire hydrants and other access points on metal and AC pipes up to 24”; AQSense-Edge (BG) - an accelerometer designed for belowground installation on fire hydrants or on valves inside a pit on metal or AC pipes up to 24”; and AQSense-Edge (Hyd) - a hydrophone sensor designed for PVC, PE and transmission (trunk main) lines, and installation on air release valves. Aquarius Spectrum’s innovative acoustic leak detection technology, protected by 21 patents, is distinguished by its combination of automatic correlation between each pair of sensors, and its sophisticated analysis engine that verifies the existence of the leak and pinpoints its exact location. Thanks to its latest AI and UI improvements, the system is now able to locate and present multiple leaks occurring between each pair of sensors and can provide operators with an estimation of their size and intensity. One of the largest water utilities in the US has already purchased and successfully implemented 150 AQSense-Edge units in a major city. 11 leaks were located and remedied in the first month of operation. In another US-based project, where the customer recently upgraded to the new AQSense-Edge sensors, more than 20 leaks were found and fixed, of which several leaks were simultaneously detected on the same section of pipe by only two sensors. According to Naama Zeldis, CEO of Aquarius Spectrum: “Aquarius is extremely proud to be at the forefront of technological innovation in the water industry for over 12 years, and today we are excited to be cooperating with leading water utilities in all five continents, driving forward our vision of digital water transformation. We bring superior solutions that address all types of water infrastructure. With a deployment of more than 10,000 acoustic sensors, we can declare with confidence that our solutions provide the most efficient and accurate results. We are delighted with the continued trust placed in us by our existing and new customers, both in the company and its cutting-edge line of acoustic water leak detection products, and we will continue to develop innovative solutions that provides customers with excellent ROI and customer experience."
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Verdant Robotics Delivers First Multi-Action Autonomous Farm Robot for Specialty Crops
To meet farmers’ demands for more sustainable and profitable growing practices, Verdant Robotics announced the expansion of its robot-as-a-service (RaaS) model to ensure access for more specialty crop farmers today. Founded in late 2018 by a leading roboticist, a software engineer, and a California farmer, Verdant has raised $21.5 million to develop the industry’s first multi-action, autonomous farm-robot capable of millimeter-accurate spraying, laser weeding, and AI-based digital crop modeling. Together with farming partners, Verdant uses these tools to deliver better outcomes: larger produce, greater yields and significant savings. Verdant has already contracted to service approximately 40% of the U.S. carrot market exclusively for the next five years and is currently scaling to meet the needs of the U.S. multi-billion-dollar fruit and vegetable industry. “Farmers told us not to give them more data, but to figure out what to do with the mountains of data they already have, or better yet just go do it,” said Gabe Sibley, PhD., co-founder and CEO, who brings more than 20 years of experience in geo-spatial computation and AI. “They want a complete solution that takes action in real-time and keeps farmers in control – all while improving profitability and automating dangerous, back-breaking field work.” - Sustainability, Profitability Driving Interest in Farm Robotics Investment into farm robotics as an enhancement to labor, profitability, and sustainability has been building for years. Agricultural robotic startups brought in $491 million in investment during the first half of 2021, a 40 percent increase over the same period in 2020, according to AgFunder, but to-date, actual on-farm robotics has mostly been on a trial basis. Following successful large-scale roll-out over the past 18 months, Verdant logged thousands of hours in 2021 and is already proven on multiple crops. “Today, Verdant machines are in the field all-day, every-day helping farmers achieve superhuman efficacy,” said Sibley. Combining multiple technologies, the company’s 6-row and 12-row commercial implements can treat up to 4.2 acres per hour, achieving a higher weed-removal rate per acre than other technology or human ability, and reducing chemical usage by up to 95 percent. Simultaneously, its autonomous software system collects data and uses machine learning capabilities to optimize yield and growing outcomes, ultimately unlocking new revenues to help farmers reach profitability and sustainability goals. “Verdant Robotics’ ability to digitize the farm enables precision technology at a level never before possible for specialty crops, removing the choice between environmental stewardship and profitability,” said Cannon Michael, a sixth-generation California farmer and CEO of Bowles Farming Company. “With the unique combination of automation and insight, farmers can collectively manage precious resources – like water – while maintaining or improving yields.” - RaaS Delivers AI, Robotics and Science to Farms of All Sizes, Faster Verdant’s computational robotic and autonomous software systems combine decades of advancements in scientific fields – including computer vision, artificial intelligence, robotics, GPS-denied navigation, chemistry, and soil and plant sciences – to achieve the next generation of crop production. “Verdant’s platform stands apart due to its integrated software and hardware that is applicable across a variety of high value crops,” said Steve Jurvetson, co-founder of Future Ventures and early investor into Verdant Robotics. “Drawing on expertise from Google X, NASA and several autonomous vehicle companies, the team has quickly delivered solid technology that ensures a growth path capable of addressing the global $8 trillion food and agriculture market and positions them well to meet the needs of farmers in adjacent markets and geographies.” “Together with their customers, Verdant is driving a shift in agriculture akin to the transformation we’ve seen in aerospace and automotive when computation is brought to bear,” Jurvetson added. Verdant leveraged investments from leading agriculture investors, including AgFunder, Autotech Ventures, Cavallo Ventures, DCVC Bio, and Future Ventures, among others. Building upon these investments, the company is expanding its platform with plans to commercialize a precision multi-action machine for orchards by 2023 – delivering another first for the specialty crop industry. Over the next several years, Verdant Robotics aims to deliver complete robotics solutions globally to help improve the quality, profitability and stewardship of important food crops and thereby feed growing populations more sustainably and nutritiously.
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Top 5 Robot Trends 2022 - International Federation of Robotice reports
The operational stock of industrial robots hit a new record of about 3 million units worldwide – increasing by 13% on average each year (2015-2020). The International Federation of Robotics analyzes the top 5 trends shaping robotics and automation around the globe. “Transformation for robotic automation is picking up speed across traditional and new industries,” says Milton Guerry, President of the International Federation of Robotics. “More and more companies are realizing the numerous advantages robotics provides for their businesses.” 1. Robots adopted by new industries: Segments that are relatively new to automation are rapidly adopting robots. Consumer behavior is driving companies to address demand for personalization of both products and delivery. The e-commerce revolution was driven by the pandemic and will continue to accelerate in 2022. There are thousands of robots installed worldwide today that did not exist in this segment just five years ago. In an effort to address labor shortages, companies that have not previously considered automation will reconsider. Businesses that rely on service workers, such as retail and restaurants, are unable to fill job openings, and as a result, we can expect to see them invest in automation to meet patrons’ needs. Relatively new robotics customer industries like delivery and logistics, construction, agriculture and many more benefit from technologies advancing by the day. 2. Robots easier to use: Implementing robots can be a complex task, but new generations of robots are easier to use. There is a clear trend towards user interfaces that allow simple icon-driven programming and the manual guidance of robots. Robot companies and some 3rd party suppliers are bundling hardware packages together with software to ease implementation. This trend may seem simple, but offerings that focus on complete ecosystems are adding tremendous value by reducing the effort and the time to operation. The trend for low-cost robotics also comes with easy setup and installation, with specific applications pre-configured in some instances. Suppliers offer standard programs combined with grippers, sensors, and controllers. App stores provide program routines for various applications and support lower-cost robot deployment. 3. Robots and Humans up-skilling: More and more governments, industry associations, and companies are seeing the need for basic robot and automation education at an early stage for the next generation. The journey of data-driven production lines will focus on education and training. In addition to the training of workers in-house, external education routes can enhance staff learning programs. Robot manufacturers like ABB, FANUC, KUKA, and YASKAWA all register between 10,000 and 30,000 participants in their robot classes across more than 30 countries every year. Robotics is changing job profiles of factory workers for the better. As the recent “Great Resignation” shows, people want to work in a modern environment where they can build a career. New training opportunities with robotics are a win-win strategy for companies and employees alike: Dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks get automated while people learn key skills for the industrial workplace of the future and increase their earning potential throughout their careers. 4. Robots secure production: Trade tensions and COVID-19 are driving manufacturing back closer to the customer. Supply-chain issues lead companies to consider nearshoring with automation as a solution. One particularly revealing statistic from the US shows how automation is helping businesses get back to business: According to the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), robot orders in the United States in the third quarter of 2021 were up 35% over the same period in 2020. More than half of the orders are from non-automotive sectors. And this record growth isn’t just robotics either—machine vision, motion control, and motors are also seeing big increases. “The pandemic and the resulting disruptions to supply chains and labor availability appear to have been the push that many needed to justify the investment,” says Dr. Susanne Bieller, General Secretary of the IFR. “The companies most likely to invest in automation are those that have been considering it for a while but just hadn’t taken the final step.” 5. Robots support digital automation: In 2022 and beyond, we see an emphasis on data as key enablers of future manufacturing. Data collected from intelligently automated processes will be analyzed by producers to make more informed decisions. With a robot’s ability to share tasks and learn through AI, companies can also adopt intelligent automation more easily in new environments, from construction to food and beverage packaging facilities to healthcare labs. AI for robotics is maturing and learning robots are becoming mainstream. The industry is past the pilot phase, and we can expect to see a larger deployment of these technologies in 2022.
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AmeraMex International Inks Orders Totaling Approximately $ 1.0 Million
AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling $1,065,000. The new orders consisted of the following equipment: • One Taylor TX330 Forklift • One Taylor TX330 Forklift • One Taylor TX250 Forklift • Three Taylor THDC955 Loaded Container Handlers The equipment, which expected to ship before the end of the first quarter, was purchased by five customers in California. For more information and pricing of logistics, construction, and forestry equipment or to receive information and arrange for a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders, the line of ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders or a Magni Telescopic Handler, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955
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Personalization of Things Made Easy with Universal Engraver
In today’s small businesses you're a smart cookie if you're considering beginning a laser engraving business. You can carve out a niche for yourself in your local community as a laser engraver and can finally realise your ambition of becoming your own boss. There are plenty of ways to make money, and they're just going to get better as the population grows. An engraving machine is used to transfer representations from bas-reliefs and other convex artistic originals to soft metal such as copper, stone, or wood. Laser engraving machines are specifically designed for cutting, etching, marking, and engraving hard materials, automating the process through the use of computer software. The overall laser marking market is expected to grow from USD 2.1 billion in 2018 to USD 3.0 billion by 2024, at a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period. Increasing adoption of laser marking across end-user verticals and enhanced performance of laser markers over traditional material marking techniques are the key factors driving the growth of this market Let's look at some of the most compelling reasons to start a laser engraving company: Profits: The beauty of a laser engraver is that it can transform a plain or ordinary object into something unique. One of the most popular consumer trends right now is personalization, which laser engravers can take advantage of. Speed: of the reasons profit margins for a laser engraver can be so high is the ability to make bespoke items quickly. Laser technology allows you to add a design to a surface in a matter of seconds, considerably faster than a typical hand engraver could. Accuracy: Laser technology is unique in that it is extremely precise. The more complex and sharper your drawings are, and the more you can charge every unit, the smaller the laser beam becomes. Rajiv Aggarwal, CEO of Universal Engraver stated vision is to provide the best quality and user-friendly laser engraving machine for you and want to become the #1 store in the world for viral, trending, and head-turning products not sold in stores. - Blue CNC Laser Engraving Machine by Universal Engraver It’s a multipurpose best engraver machine for coated metal & glass, ceramic, wood, bamboo, leather, plastic. Pick, Place, & Engrave - Laser engrave your barcodes, serial numbers, text, and logos with a 15000 mw Blue CNC Laser Engraving Machine. Our laser machines can engrave or mark all types of materials, including stainless steel, anodized aluminum, tool steel, allowing you to create a variety of mark types in no time! The laser has been serving well for many years, particularly for laser engraving and laser marking metals. the new DIY plug-n-play machine to engrave whatever you want, wherever you want. The Blue CNC Laser Engraving Machine is the ideal laser engraving machine - whether you start your business or want to speed up production. This 15000mW blue laser engraving machine is ideal for laser engraving usage with grayscale printing, low-light positioning, and freedom. The laser engraving and marking of metals is an exact and clean form of metal processing. Advertising material or signs made of metal can be cost-effectively and permanently refined with texts, logos, or images. This brand-new laser engraving machine is excellent for DIY engraving with higher precision and more robust stability. It's designed for a laptop with professional control software, giving you the ultimate portable carving experience. This mini laser engraving machine features upgraded carving precision and is more practical than a regular engraving machine. [Features] Wide Range of Engraving: Can be engraved wood, plastic, acrylic, metal, stainless steel, anodized engraved aluminum, stone, bamboo, leather, paper, plastic, some reflective, transparent material need to make black processing can engraving. Easy To Use: Plug and play, Easy to use. Connect the USB cable to the board, install the software, and start engraving. Just a few screws away from connecting to your laptop! We sent the manual that tells you how to use it. Amazing Engineering: If you are a right Maker, DIY Handyman, or an artist, this machine offers a great way to repeat processes and do things that no hand tool ever allowed you to do. This is a personal mini laser engraving machine, perfect for artists, hobbyists, and craft makers. Precision: 0.00625mm. Creative: This machine can engrave everything, such as pictures and the font. Wide Range of Engraving: Wood, plastic, acrylic, metal, stainless steel, anodized engraved aluminum, stone, bamboo, leather, paper, plastic.
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AmeraMex International Announces Equipment Orders Totaling Approximately $ 1.1 Million
AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling approximately $1.1 million. The new orders consisted of the following equipment: 1) One Taylor XEC 207/8 empty container handler and one Hoist side-picker shipping to a customer in Southern California. 2) One Taylor TXEC 207/8 side picker shipping to a customer in Washington State. For more information and pricing of logistics, construction, and forestry equipment or to receive information and arrange for a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric’s 100 percent electric skid steer loaders or the line of ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955.
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hyperMILL end-to-end CAM solution is now even more powerful
From the 4th to the 8th of April, OPEN MIND Technologies will once again be returning to the MACH exhibition at the Birmingham NEC, giving its MACH exhibition premiere to the latest version of its hyperMILL® CAD/CAM software. Version 2022.1 will incorporate more features, optimised strategies and a host of major enhancements for more powerful and simplified machine and controller independent NC programming. On Stand 440 in Hall 17, OPEN MIND experts will demonstrate the optimisations to hyperMILL® that include enhancements to the 5-axis strategies in VIRTUAL Machining. This will provide users with better results in terms of surface quality, new options for 2D functionality as well as efficient innovations in electrode manufacturing that deliver more convenient and faster programming. hyperMILL® VIRTUAL Machining is all about generating, optimising, and simulating NC code reliably through a collection of targeted solutions. Virtual Machining can be used to map all process steps in CNC manufacturing for perfect process control. The modular technology now also supports additive machining programs. The Optimizer module, which delivers powerful optimisation algorithms for efficient multi-axis machining, also features the ‘Optimized Table-Table Logic’ function for easy programming and reduced air time between cuts. The user selects a distance value, and the Optimizer automatically calculates the safety distances using the raw part, component and clamps selected in the job list. The defined distance is maintained for all components and the movement sequences are automatically optimised. This makes the generating of ideal linking movements even easier. Also, the new feature of direct data transmission in the CONNECTED Machining module provides additional safety during tool input. Instead of the traditional manual input, the parameters are transferred directly from hyperMILL® to the controller. [Seamlessly merging the virtual and real world] The three hyperMILL® VIRTUAL Machining modules for the seamless merging of the virtual and real worlds form the core of the safe simulation solution. The Center module virtually maps real machining situations for the machine and controller and simulates these based on the NC code. The Optimizer module provides powerful optimisation algorithms that ensure efficient multi-axis machining. It also automatically identifies the best inclination for top machining results. The CONNECTED Machining module enables in-depth networking and synchronisation with the machine. [Intelligent component alignment at the touch of a button] Another tool for ensuring greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness in machining is the intelligent real-time component alignment in CAM using hyperMILL® BEST FIT. The unaligned component is probed on the machine using 3D probing, and the probing points are sent back to the CAM system in the form of a measuring log. hyperMILL® BEST FIT then precisely adjusts the NC code to the actual component position. The adapted NC code is subsequently simulated in the virtual machine on the actual clamping setup and optimised automatically. [5-axis radial machining] Machining strategies for 2.5D, 3D, HSC, Mill/Turn and 5-axis applications offer the ideal solution for any machining situation. In the area of 5-axis radial machining, new improvements raise the bar in blow mould machining. The new ‘Flow Equidistant’ infeed strategy is the first of its kind that supports the generation of toolpaths with a constant infeed for vertical and challenging surfaces. This means that these surfaces can be integrated into the overall machining sequence and processed in a single step to provide seamless machining with a very high surface finish quality. New undercut detection automatically identifies undercuts and makes the corresponding machining adjustments, if desired. This means that undercut areas can now be skipped with no manual intervention necessary. As a result, users do not need to generate additional surfaces. A dedicated 3-axis machine mode greatly simplifies the use of radial machining on these machines, and the ‘Smooth Overlap’ function can be applied to the general milling area without selecting a boundary curve. For instance, the ‘Smooth Overlap’ function blends the transitions between two surfaces that have been milled in different machining directions. This results in perfectly transition-free surfaces. To find out more, come and talk to our experts at MACH on Stand 440 in Hall 17 from the 4th to the 8th of April at the Birmingham NEC.
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Break-Through Ultra-Precision Machining Platform Enables Realization
Moore Nanotechnology Systems (“Nanotech”), a leading global supplier of ultra-precision machining systems, announced today the release of their next generation ultra-precision machining platform, the 250UPL MP. This solution is configurable for all sub-nanometer, ultra-precision Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT), grinding and milling applications. Optical mold-tool makers demand higher-quality surface finishes to support the fidelity of optical systems now common in smart phone, AR/VR/MR and automotive applications. The current generation of ultra-precision machines in use today have reached their maximum potential. A clean-sheet design was required to break through to the next level of performance, and Nanotech’s 250UPL MP meets and exceeds these requirements. Mark Boomgarden, Nanotech’s President and CEO, explained, “We work with the leading camera-module and optical-component suppliers around the world to gain mid and long-term insight to their product and technology requirements, which is then used as input to our own multi-year development roadmap.” Boomgarden continued, “It became clear that the industry needs a machine-tool platform that can extend the boundaries of ultra-precision machining capabilities, and they need it now. Building upon years of success in this segment, our technical staff stepped up to the challenge and delivered Nanotech’s 250UPL MP. This is one of many new product innovations you will see from Nanotech over the next 12-18 months.” Paul Vermette, Nanotech’s Vice President of Engineering and new product development, added, “Success in this market comes down to delivering a solution grounded in sound process knowledge. Our investment in a process development center, very near the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s campus, has been an invaluable component in our product and technology development.” Vermette continued, “When we come to market with a new machine like the 250UPL MP, we know that we’re delivering more than a machine, we’re delivering a solution that solves real-world, complex challenges the optical tool-making industry faces daily.” Scott Gerhart, Nanotech’s Vice President of Sales, commented further, “Over the last 6-months, we’ve been shipping the 250UPL MP to select market-leading companies around the world, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Simply stated, no other machine available today can achieve the surface finish and form accuracy demanded by the optical designs these companies are launching over the next 36 months.” Gerhart continued, “We’re excited to share the future of ultra-precision machining with all companies when we formally launch the 250UPL MP platform at Photonics West - January 25, 2022.” For more information, contact sales@nanotechsys.com
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China Aims for Global Leadership in Robotics with new 5-year Plan
The new 5-year plan for the robotics industry in China, released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in Beijing, focuses on promoting innovation - making China a global leader for robot technology and industrial advancement. The statistical department of the International Federation of Robotics reports about the domestic and foreign engagement on the world's largest market. “China is by far the biggest robot market in the world regarding annual sales and the operational stock,” says Milton Guerry, President of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). “IFR´s robot density statistics is a useful indicator of China´s dynamic developments, counting the number of industrial robots per 10,000 employees: China´s robot density in the manufacturing industry currently ranks 9th globally (246 units) - compared to 25th (49 units) just five years ago.” Automation Race in China The automation race in China today is mainly catered by foreign robot manufacturers with a combined market share of 73%. With some volatility in the past 8 years, this share has been constant. In 2020, installations of robots from abroad - mainly imported from Japan, Korea and Europe - grew strongly by 24% to 123,030 units. This number also includes units produced in China by non-Chinese suppliers. Chinese robot manufacturers mainly deliver to their domestic market, where they held a market share of 27% in 2020 with 45,347 units shipped. Second robotics development plan “China released the second five-year development plan for the robotics industry – following 2016-2020,” says Song Xiaogang, Executive Director and Secretary-General of the China Robot Industry Alliance (CRIA). “The plan has great guiding significance for promoting the high-quality development of China's robotics industry during the 14th period. Robots are the key equipment of modern industry. The new 5-year plan leads the digital development and intelligent upgrading in China and also helps to promote the global robot technology progress.” IFR China data overview (2020) Sales 168,377 new robots installed (thereof, 45,347 units from Chinese suppliers), 20% higher than in 2019 CAGR 2015-2020: +20% Global ranking 2020: No.1 Shares of total supply: Handling operations 42%, welding 21% electrical/electronics industry 37%, automotive industry 16% Stock of operational robots About 943,200 units, 21% higher than in 2019 CAGR 2015-2020: +30% Global ranking 2020: No. 1
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IDTechEx Asks Why the 3D Printing Market is not Consolidating
“We expect to see the additive manufacturing market consolidating in the near future” has been the refrain of many for nearly a decade now. The thought really strengthened after major acquisition moves by industry titans Stratasys and 3D Systems between 2010-2012. Stratasys would acquire wax 3D printer company Solidscape and merge with material jetting pioneer Objet in 2011-2012, while 3D Systems completed a jaw-dropping 13 acquisitions between 2011-2012. With so many major moves by market leaders in the early 2010s, it seemed like market consolidation was just around the corner. Yet as the decade continued, those early signs of consolidation never came to fruition. Instead, newcomers like Carbon, Formlabs, and Desktop Metal expanded the range of 3D printing technologies available and quickly grew to become headline-catching unicorns of the additive manufacturing market. Other established companies like HP and GE would throw their hats into the 3D printing ring with their own offerings. Now in the 2020s, a recent flurry of mergers and acquisitions have brought 3D printing observers to again expect the market to consolidate in the near future. In 2021, IDTechEx noted well over 40 mergers or acquisitions taking place in 3D printing, which seems to support that claim. However, IDTechEx also tracked publicly announced investment in 3D printing-related companies in 2021, which amounted to over $950 million. Nearly a billion dollars of funding poured into the 3D printing industry last year, most of which went into 3D printing hardware companies. Based on that, the additive manufacturing industry isn’t consolidating – it’s expanding, and it’s expanding thanks to continued innovation in 3D printing hardware. Over thirty years after Chuck Hull submitted his patent for stereolithography (SLA), new start-ups around the world continue to innovate on existing 3D printing technologies to access new materials and applications. The Innovation Driving 3D Printing Hardware’s Expansion Which innovative technologies are enabling the 3D printing market to continue growing with newcomers like Azul3D, Holo, Xerox, Massivit3D, Evolve Additive Solutions, and more? While there are too many to fully recount in this article, there are several that IDTechEx has tracked given their potential. One of those is multi-material printing, specifically technologies that enable materials of different composition and/or classes to be printed in a single build. Multi-material printing has the potential to open 3D printing’s door to more functional applications by allowing for the incorporation of multiple materials in a single part. Players exploring multi-material printing include more established companies like Lithoz and Admatec and start-ups like Inkbit and Aerosint. Tangentially related to multi-material printing is bound metal extrusion (BME) and bound ceramic extrusion (BCE). Rather than printing multiple materials at once as in multi-material printing, bound metal and bound ceramic extrusion entail using thermoplastic polymers as a binder for metal or ceramic powder particles to make filaments or pellets. These filaments and pellets can then be printed through fused filament fabrication (FFF) or pellet extrusion (sometimes called fused granule fabrication (FGF)), after which the printed part gets debound in a furnace to remove the polymer binder. Following debinding (and sintering, in the case of ceramics), one is left with a fully dense metal or ceramic part. BME rose to prominence thanks to Desktop Metal and Markforged, who highlight how BME makes metal 3D printing much more accessible for the average user by lowering the price point and complexity of metal 3D printers. BCE is started to gain notice as it also increases the accessibility of ceramic 3D printing, with companies like Nanoe Zetamix and Xerion Technologies introducing ceramic filaments and specialized printers in the past few years. BME and BCE notably intersect with multi-material printing in companies like Metallum3D and AIM3D, who produce pellet extrusion printers capable of printing polymer, ceramic, and metal pellets in the same build. The discussion in this article has largely focused on innovations occurring within the commercial AM market. However, historically many technological advances in additive manufacturing arise from academia, where researchers are experimenting with 3D printing in diverse fields like medicine, architecture, and carbon capture. One innovation of interest is volumetric additive manufacturing, which is being developed by scientists at UC Berkeley and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Rather than printing 2D slices layer-by-layer to create a 3D object, volumetric additive manufacturing prints a 3D object in a single step. 3D printing is classically limited by its slow build speed and poor surface finish, two issues caused by the methodology of printing 2D slices layer-by-layer. Volumetric additive manufacturing addresses both these issues, potentially allowing for significant improvements in 3D printing speed and resolution. Though still in the laboratory and unlikely to enter the commercial market in the near-term, new technologies like volumetric additive manufacturing will feed the expansion of the 3D printing market in the long-term. When asked why the additive manufacturing industry still isn’t consolidating yet, IDTechEx points to these innovations as the key to the growth and expansion of the $10 billion 3D printing hardware market. - Market Forecasts for 3D Printing Hardware IDTechEx's new 3D Printing Hardware: 2022-2032 report analyzes each established and emerging printing technology based on their material class. For further information on this market including interview-based profiles of the main players, technology benchmarking studies, granular 10-year market forecasts including 17 forecast lines, and application case studies, see the IDTechEx market report “3D Printing Hardware 2022-2032: Technology and Market Outlook”. For more information on this report, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/3DPHardware or for the full portfolio of 3D Printing research available from IDTechEx please visit www.IDTechEx.com/Research/3D. Upcoming IDTechEx Webinar: The Technologies Driving 3D Printing Hardware's $10 Billion Momentum Sona Dadhania, Technology Analyst at IDTechEx and author of this article, will be presenting a free-to-attend webinar on Thursday 27 January 2022 - The Technologies Driving 3D Printing Hardware's $10 Billion Momentum. This webinar will answer the following questions: What are the major printing technologies driving the 3D printing hardware market's growth? What are new emerging technologies to keep an eye on? Is the hardware market at a point of consolidation or expansion? https://www.idtechex.com/en/webinar/the-technologies-driving-3d-printing-hardwares-10-billion-momentum/411
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OPEN MIND Offers Integrated Software Solution for CNC Manufacturing
OPEN MIND closes the gap between CAM systems and physical machine environments with its hyperMILL® VIRTUAL Machining solution that is an integrated all-in-one system that eliminates the need for various software solutions. It maps all steps virtually, thus giving manufacturers absolute control over the machining process. This includes programming, NC code generation and optimization, simulation of the NC code, and networking with the machine. At OPEN MIND, the development of a safe simulation solution starts long before the NC code. The CAD/CAM developer relies on in-house innovative solutions to build an integrated system where NC code generation and simulation are closely interlinked. The generated NC code is tested extensively, taking into account machine limitations. It is guaranteed to run on the respective machines. All process-relevant data is available in the NC code simulation, delivering an unsurpassed level of accuracy and safety. - Three modules for merging the virtual and real world OPEN MIND has equipped hyperMILL® VIRTUAL Machining with three modules for merging the virtual and real worlds. In the Center module, real machining situations are virtually mapped for the machine and controller. They are then simulated based on the NC code. The CONNECTED Machining module enables in-depth networking and synchronization with the machine. For example, the simulation software can detect deviations in the origin or tool positions. The Optimizer module provides powerful optimization algorithms that ensure efficient multi-axis machining. It also automatically identifies the best solution for top machining results. Moreover, users can write the CAM programs for portal milling machines in the same way as for 5-axis milling centers. The Optimizer automatically adds the rewinds necessitated by rotary and linear axis limits and by collision control based on the machine’s digital twin. This eliminates unnecessary retract movements to safety positions between two machining steps with the same tool. When combining jobs with the same tool (linking), 2D and 3D machining steps are transformed into smooth movements. The Optimizer can also distinguish between roughing and finishing operations. - Intelligent part alignment at the push of a button Another tool for ensuring greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness in machining is the intelligent component alignment in CAM in real-time using hyperMILL® BEST FIT. The unaligned part is probed on the machine using 3D probing, and the probing points are sent back to the CAM system as a measurement log. hyperMILL® BEST FIT then precisely adjusts the NC code to the actual part position. The adapted NC code is subsequently simulated in the virtual machine on the actual clamping setup and optimized automatically. To ensure safe and accurate machining, the machine operator performs a final verification measurement. After that, he can start machining without having to align the part on the machine beforehand. The advantages include immense time savings, safe machining, and well planned processes.
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Three Liebherr Auto RMGs enter service at CSX Intermodal in North Carolina
Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd. are delighted to have handed over three fully automated rail mounted gantry cranes to the CSX Carolina Connector Intermodal Terminal (CCX) in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The cabinless RMGs have been supplied with Liebherr Remote operator Stations (ROS) for supervised moves and exception handling. - Automated operations The widespan Liebherr RMGs have a span of 165 ft. (50.292 m), a lift height over rail of 50 ft. (15.24 m) and cantilevered outreaches both sides with a safe working load of 40 long tons (40.6 tonnes). Within the span, the machines will work five rail lines and a four-high, five-wide container stack, with a further two rail lines under one of the cantilevers. Truck handling will take place under the other cantilever in a dedicated truck transfer area. Container handling on the stack is fully automated and in line with terminal safety procedures, picking and placing from the rail cars is carried out remotely using supervised moves. Truck handling employs a combination of manual and supervised moves. The RMGs will operate on both domestic 53’ wide top pick containers and ISO containers, handling single and double stacked rail cars. - Technology An industrial data centre with redundant servers and a high speed fibre network anchor the automated crane operations and communications. A 3D measurement system scans the operational area, continuously creating and updating profiles of container stacks, railcars and hazards, providing key data for path planning and automatic operation. XYZ crane positioning is provided by Infrared spreader tracking, RFID gantry and trolley positioning technologies further supported by encoders. A proprietary obstacle generation and monitoring system is at the heart of the cranes’ automation. Built by a team of Liebherr engineers and based on decades of automation expertise by the Liebherr Group, the system has been tailored to precise customer requirements and works seamlessly together with the Tideworks TOS through a customer specific interface. For safety, a Yardeye system has been installed. This system monitors operational traffic, particularly pinmen vehicles in and around the RMG operational area allowing for safe operation. The system uses both GNSS and RFID which provides for increased accuracy and redundancy, tracking the position, heading and velocity of equipped vehicles in the yard in real time. - Fast and precise operation reduces energy consumption The new cranes bring state-of-the-art, emission-free container handling to CCX. In line with Liebherr’s long established simultaneous motion approach to container handling, the automated RMG includes 3 dimensional stack and train profiling allowing optimal path planning and the most productive and efficient spreader path rather than the traditional approach of square moves. This approach increases productivity and throughput and also results in a further reduction of energy consumption. The Liebherr drive system with active front end and simultaneous motion allows power usage to be optimised on the crane and regenerated energy fed back to the grid. Liebherr’s eight-rope-reeving system is inherently stable and ensures precise and faster final positioning times whilst the micro-motion controls ensure smooth remote driver operation when placing containers onto trucks. The CCX terminal is ideally positioned with over 5 million customers within a 120 mile radius and has exceptional connectivity being located in close proximity to I-95 highway and the growing Raleigh metro area. The new machines bring state-of-the-art freight handling to North Carolina whilst the electric cranes have zero local emissions.
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LiDAR Technology Launching at CES 2022 Allows Mass Implementation of Indoor Robotics
GreatStar OLEI, a leading global provider of advanced LiDAR and thermal camera sensors, along with MorpheusTEK, today launched in advance of the CES 2022 show, January 5-7th, the world’s first, industrial quality 50m LiDAR available for navigation and obstacle avoidance that is not limited by need for external reflectors and is priced for mass adoption at $1,099 per unit or lower at volume. 50m is the sweet spot for logistics and other indoor AGVs but current 50m+ LiDAR products are limited by the need for external reflectors and are expensive. Until now, the material and production expenses for most mass scale robotics and industrial, commercial-grade LiDARs has typically accounted for over 20-30% of overall robot costs. Reflectors increase costs for deployment and limit AGVs operating and adapting to dynamic environments. However OLEI's unique technology can work with reflectors, without reflectors or hybrid depending on application. These problems are solved with the introduction of the GreatStar OLEI LR1F 50m LiDAR. This affordable 50m LiDAR is possible through the ingenuity of OLEI, a business unit of GreatStar. OLEI is division of the largest laser driver purchaser and laser measurement manufacturer in the world. Their buying power and high production provides economies of scale to drive down overall production costs that are passed along to business partners and customers worldwide. “This industry-leading breakthrough for indoor AGVs and robotics is a game changer for our customers and automation worldwide,” said Van Bedell, Exec Vice President of Sales of MorpheusTEK and exclusive Partner of GreatStar OLEI for North America. “Engineers have struggled to keep BOM costs down while meeting up to 50m requirements for navigation and safety. At $1,099, that challenge is eliminated." This GreatStar OLEI LiDAR is made possible through a world-class partner supply chain collaborative of “all-star” global design and component leaders, including US-design, German-precision laser drivers and motors, Japanese sensor technology and China quality manufacturing. “This orchestrated effort is a global model of excellence when you bring together the best of the best to deliver a solution that benefits the greater good for all as part of a global digital economy,” added Dr. Yongping Wang CTO of OLEI. For more information on the Great Start OLEI 50m LiDAR, we are at CES Booth 9626, or search for us at the CES 2022 show (https://digital.ces.tech/home) under Great Star Industrial USA, LLC.
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Robot density nearly doubled globally
The top 5 most automated countries in the world are: South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Germany, and Sweden. The use of industrial robots in factories around the world is accelerating at a high rate: 126 robots per 10,000 employees is the new average of global robot density in the manufacturing industries – nearly double the number five years ago (2015: 66 units). This is according to the 2021 World Robot Statistics, issued by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). By regions, the average robot density in Asia/Australia is 134 units, in Europe 123 units and in the Americas 111 units. The top 5 most automated countries in the world are: South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Germany, and Sweden. “Robot density is the barometer to track the degree of automation adoption in the manufacturing industry around the world,” says Milton Guerry, President of the International Federation of Robotics. [Asia] The development of robot density in China is the most dynamic worldwide: Due to the significant growth of robot installations, the density rate rose from 49 units in 2015 to 246 units in 2020. Today, China’s robot density ranks 9th globally compared to 25th just five years ago. Asia is also the home of the country with the world´s highest robot density in the manufacturing industry: the Republic of Korea has held this position since 2010. The country’s robot density exceeds the global average seven-fold (932 units per 10,000 workers). Robot density had been increasing by 10% on average each year since 2015. With its globally recognized electronics industry and a distinct automotive industry, the Korean economy is based on the two largest areas for industrial robots. Singapore takes second place with a rate of 605 robots per 10,000 employees in 2020. Singapore’s robot density had been growing by 27% on average each year since 2015. Japan ranked third in the world: In 2020, 390 robots were installed per 10,000 employees in the manufacturing industry. Japan is the world´s predominant industrial robot manufacturer: The production capacity of Japanese suppliers reached 174,000 units in 2020. Today, Japan´s manufacturers deliver 45% of the global robot supply. [North America] Robot density in the United States rose from 176 units in 2015 to 255 units in 2020. The country ranks seventh in the world – ahead of Chinese Taipei (248 units) and China (246 units). The modernization of domestic production facilities has boosted robot sales in the United States. The use of industrial robots also aids to achieve decarbonization targets e.g. in the cost-efficient production of solar panels and in the continued transition towards electric vehicles. Several car manufacturers have announced investments to further equip their factories for new electric drive car models or to increase capacity for battery production. These major projects will create demand for industrial robots in the next few years. [Europe] Europe´s most automated country is Germany - ranking 4th worldwide with 371 units. The annual supply had a share of 33% of total robot sales in Europe 2020 - 38% of Europe’s operational stock is in Germany. The German robotics industry is recovering, mainly driven by strong overseas business rather than by the domestic or European market. Robot demand in Germany is expected to grow slowly, mainly supported by demand for low-cost robots in the general industries and outside traditional manufacturing. France has a robot density of 194 units (ranking 16th in the world), which is well above the global average of 126 robots and relatively similar compared to other EU countries like Spain (203 units), Austria (205 units) or The Netherlands (209 units). EU members like Sweden (289 units), Denmark (246 units) or Italy (224 units), have a significantly higher degree of automation in the manufacturing segment. As the only G7 country – the UK has a robot density below the world average of 126 units with 101 units, ranking 24th. Five years ago, the UK´s robot density was 71 units. The exodus of foreign labor after Brexit increased the demand for robots in 2020. This situation is expected to prevail in near future, the modernization of the UK manufacturing industry will also be boosted by massive tax incentives, the “super-deduction”: From April 2021 until March 2023, companies can claim 130% of capital allowances as a tax relief for plant and machinery investments.
