Fourth generation (4G) wireless cellular networks can theoretically download at speeds up to 100 Mbps, but a fifth generation (5G) network can achieve from 1-10 Gbps. While some fifth generation (5G) wireless cellular systems began operation in limited areas of the US and other parts of the world in 2018, 2019 should mark the real […]
Machine Vision and the Evolution of Image Sensors
The rapid proliferation of vision technology in embedded systems has led to ultra-high-speed imaging solutions for automotive safety, machine vision, and motion analysis. That, in turn, translates into a significant boost in performance and imaging capabilities via more powerful image sensors and smaller pixel architectures. Machine vision technology uses image-recognition algorithms to identify the object…
This 360° video lets you travel to the center of the Milky Way
An ultra-high-definition 360-degree video offers some sight-seeing from the center of the Milky Way. Provided by the Chandra X-ray Observatory, the video takes the vantage point the galaxy’s supermassive black hole, allowing viewers to click and drag in any direction. For an even more immersive trip to the Galactic Center, the imagery can be experienced…
Khronos Group Releases Provisional Standard for AR and VR Devices
The Khronos Group of Beaverton, Ore., an open consortium of leading hardware and software companies that come together to create advanced acceleration standards, has released the OpenXR 0.90 provisional specification. OpenXR is a unifying, royalty-free, open standard that provides high-performance access to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)— collectively known as XR—platforms and devices. The […]
Robotics investments February 2019
Robotics investments totaled at least $4.3 billion in February 2019 in a steep increase from January, which had about $1.4 billion. In addition, companies reported approximately $3.9 billion worth of acquisitions this past month. Any political or economic jitters have not yet harmed the mood for robot deals. The Robotic Industries Association noted yesterday that robot…
COMAN+ Takes Human-Robot Interaction to Next Level
Playing a ball game and moving furniture may seem like two completely different tasks, but they have a couple of things in common. First, it’s easier to do it together. Then, these seemingly undemanding tasks actually require a subtle combination of strength, moderation and synchronisation. Try playing with a ball or moving a table with…
Virtual Reality May Reveal How Time is Perceived in Space
Einstein’s time-dilation hypothesis states “that time slows down the faster you travel,” according to the European Space Agency (ESA). Flying atomic clocks aboard aircraft have verified the hypothesis, and astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) are continually studying their perception of time in space. Right now, ISS astronauts are traveling at 17,895 mph (28,800…
Robotics cluster in Odense, Denmark, offers metrics for growth
What makes a robotics cluster successful? Proximity to university research and talent, government support of entrepreneurship, and a focus on industry end users are all important. Around the world, regions have proclaimed initiatives to become “the next Silicon Valley.” However, there have been relatively few metrics to describe robotics hubs — until now. This week,…
Swedish patient receives ‘dexterous, sentient’ prosthetic hand
A Swedish woman whose hand was amputated has become the first recipient of an osseo-neuromuscular implant to control a dexterous hand prosthesis, according to Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden. Surgeons placed titanium implants in the two forearm bones (radius and ulna), and extended electrodes to nerves and muscle to extract signals to control a…
Take a Step into Virtual Reality: Cybershoes a VR Accessory
Virtual reality enthusiasts can step into new worlds like never before with VR company Cybershoes GmbH, (https://www.cybershoes.io/ ), showcasing Cybershoes®, an affordable, innovative VR accessory that is worn on your feet, and allows you to literally walk, run or flee through virtual reality. The Cybershoes are strapped directly onto your feet, and as you are seated…
Robotics investments recap: January 2019
Robotics investments in January 2019 totaled at least $444 million worldwide, with a total of 24 robotics investments. Unverifiable robotics investments and categories described below have been excluded from this analysis. There are several robotics investments for which the amounts and rounds were not disclosed. If we verify those amounts and rounds, or come across new robotics…
Vicarious Surgical raises $10M for robot-assisted surgery
Vicarious Surgical, a Cambridge, Mass.-based healthcare robotics startup, raised another $10 million for the virtual reality-augmented robot-assisted surgery platform it’s developing, according to an SEC filing. The latest round of funding follows on the heels of a nearly $17 million Series A round announced in April 2018. Vicarious Surgical first reported a $2.4 million raise…
Designing Cars in VR Could be in Ford’s Future
Ford is playing around with design by integrating virtual reality while creating cars. Currently, the company is experimenting with Gravity Sketch, a tool that allows Ford designers to draw 3D cars in VR. This could save time in the design process. Normally, vehicle designers start with a 2D sketch, which is then scanned and rendered…
Ultra-compact tactile switches boost performance of gaming controllers and accessories
C&K announces an expansive switch portfolio for designers of games controllers and gaming accessories. It offers a broad range of miniature tactile, ultra-miniature tactile and micro miniature tactile switches for PCB mounting. Designed for the most demanding applications, the switches can be customized in order to achieve the exact sound and feel desired for the […]
Virtual and Augmented Reality Software Company Moves into More Headsets
Arvizio Inc. is expanding its software to accommodate many types of headsets. The Canadian company’s MR Studio is used for 3D visualization and collaboration in augmented, virtual and mixed reality. It can be used for design reviews, marketing demonstrations, new project pursuit, remote expert assistance and training across industries including architecture, engineering and construction; industrial engineering; […]
TIC-TOC Technology Moves Tactile Internet a Step Closer to Reality
Researchers in South Korea have developed extremely fast information processing technologies that can help usher in the next generation of the Internet. Researchers at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in South Korea have developed technology capable of sending packets of digital information at 25 Gb/s (gigabits per second) – 10 times faster than…
Astronauts Prep for Space Station Life in VR
Virtual reality (VR) has stepped beyond the video games industry, today helping astronauts prep for life aboard the International Space Station (ISS). While Earth-bound, astronauts can practice their spacewalks and master the art of equipment operations in microgravity. In the image below (Figure 1), ESA astronaut Luca Parmitano is utilizing VR to prepare for his…
Redesigning Instruments with VR for Disabled Musicians
Using technology today often requires individuals to be quite dexterous, from controlling drone remote controllers to pressing and swiping buttons on a smartphone. These high-tech advancements don’t often take into account those who are disabled. Now, the Performance without Barriers research group is designing digital musical interfaces for disabled musicians. The research group collaborates with…
How to Improve Communication Between People and Smart Buildings
When it comes to buildings and their occupants, USC researchers see a failure to communicate, yet improved dialogue between the two can help smart buildings work better for a sustainable society. In a new study, researchers found that subtle changes in design of virtual assistants results in behavioral changes that can help the environment. The researchers found…
Executive Edition podcast: Talking Industry 4.0 with Automation Alley’s Tom Kelly
A lightly edited transcript follows: Mary: Welcome to Design World’s Executive Edition where we speak with leaders of manufacturers, OEMs and other engineering companies. I’m Mary Gannon. Today I’m joined by Tom Kelly, Executive Director and CEO of Automation Alley. Thanks for being here today, Tom. Tom: Thanks for having me, Mary. Mary: Over the…
The most-read engineering stories of 2018
2018 was an interesting year for the engineering and manufacturing worlds, with a generally upbeat economy and good market for component manufacturers. We saw continued advancements in robotics, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and the IoT — all things that affect how products are designed and made. Our editorial staff is always looking to bring you…
Selecting the right PLM software for bill of material management
[Following is a lightly edited transcript of this webinar.] Paul Heney: Good afternoon. Thank you, everyone, for attending today’s webinar, Selecting the Right PLM Software for Bill of Material Management, brought to you by PTC and Design World Magazine. Now, just a couple of housekeeping details before we get started. You should ask all…
BOXX introduces next generation S-Class workstations with 9th Gen Intel processors
BOXX Technologies, a leading innovator of high-performance computer workstations, rendering systems, and servers, announced the new line of APEXX S-class workstations featuring the flagship APEXX S3. Purpose-built for 3D design, CAD, and motion media workflows requiring best-in-class CPU frequencies for lightly threaded applications, the compact APEXX S3 now features a 9th generation, eight-core Intel Core…
Theorem Solution’s Inventor to JT Visualize Translator Gets an Upgrade
Theorem Solutions recently released version 21.3 of its Inventor to JT Visualize 3D translator, which supports Autodesk Inventor 2017, 2018 and 2019, and up to and including the JT file format version 10.0. Theorem’s Visualize 3D products are aimed at creating visualization data for users of digital mock-up, virtual reality or desktop applications and support […]
Hold on Tight! Students Design Twists and Turns of Roller Coaster
Bethany Mruzik admits that engineering principles were the last thing on her mind every time she climbed aboard a roller coaster at Six Flags St. Louis. But with the popular park only 15 minutes from her home, Mruzik – now a senior civil engineering major at Purdue – soon realized her interest in a theme…