Coffee-Filled Robot Paw Back in the Spotlight

Posted on: February 27th, 2012

In December 2010 we showcased a video about a robotic hand comprised of a balloon filled with coffee grounds. It was designed to easily pick up objects of varying size and shape. Now it’s back and able to throw! After you watch the video check out the article.

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New Manufacturing Training Program | Right Skills Now

Posted on: October 28th, 2011

A new pilot program in Minnesota, focusing on addressing the shortage of skilled workers needed for manufacturing companies, officially launched October 27, 2011.

According to Manufacturing Institute, “This initiative, called Right Skills Now, is an acceleration of the NAM –Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System, which includes nationally portable, industry-recognized certifications that are combined with for-credit education programs.”

The pilot program, currently available at Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis and South Central College in Mankato, will initially focus on high-demand machining skills. The colleges worked with local manufacturers to develop a curriculum that would teach the skills necessary to operate current machinery. Students, in one semester, can come away with a Right Skill Now Certificate and begin work right away.

Check out one employer’s story below detailing how important this program is to the manufacturing sector.

For more information check out the “Right Skills Now” website.

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Robots Master Delicate Art of Juggling

Posted on: June 1st, 2011

Linear actuators are becoming more flexible with the use of high speed processors. Increasing data rate speeds are allowing new, creative ideas, to emerge from electrical laboratories everywhere. Imagine our future robotic growth with processing speeds doubling and tripling faster than we can keep up. “The Matrix is everywhere, it is all around us.” -Morpheus

Read the entire article at Engadget.com

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RFID Helps Distribution Centers

Posted on: May 10th, 2011

This is a great video from Balluff explaining how RFID can help distribution centers track product location and monitor it with any type of internet browser such as your Iphone.

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PET Preform Plastic Injection Molding

Posted on: April 26th, 2011

I found this picture and video on another blog. I’m always interested in seeing how day-to-day items are made and wanted to share. Thanks- 22 Words.

Before it’s formed (via TYWKIWDBI)

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x-AR Exoskeleton Arm

Posted on: March 23rd, 2011

This is a pretty cool solution to carpal tunnel or just the average arm tingling from sitting at a desk too much. The keyboard tray just isn’t working for me; I wonder if my boss will let me order one of these.

Read Entire Article
Video from www.engadget.com

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Air Driven vs. Mechanical Vacuum Pumps

Posted on: March 7th, 2011

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Netflix – Done By Hand!

Posted on: February 14th, 2011

Can you believe it? Calling all Engineers and Automation Specialists… find a way for Netflix to automate so I can still get DVD’s in the mail (I’m not a fan of streaming my movies).

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3G or 4G??? What’s the Difference?

Posted on: February 10th, 2011

Today people are finally able to purchase an IPhone from Verizon. It’s been the topic of the week not only online but also television. The cell phone company competitions don’t stop with the IPhone but continue with comparing 3G and 4G networks. With all this discussion there is also a lot of talk about 3G and 4G. What exactly is the difference? I am getting ready to purchase a new phone myself. Do I choose the smart phone for $50 with the 3G network or do I wait till Monday and spend $250 for a smartphone on the 4G network??? It probably doesn’t matter what I go with because there will probably be something newer within the month anyways.

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My blackberry is not working!

Posted on: January 17th, 2011

I found this video link on Engineering.com’s Twitter posting. If you like a little British humor have a listen.

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