Author: Serkadis

Homebrew coder 34®ß0*3® AKA Earboxer has released a minor update for his highly addicting DS homebrew game, Helicopter DS. More after the jump.
 
 
Download: Helicopterds v.21 (http://dl.qj.net/nintendo-ds/homebrew-games/helicopterds-v21.html)

Filed under: Technology, Ford

Over the course of 2010, Ford plans to aggressively ramp up its EcoBoost engine strategy with two new four-cylinder engines and the first rear-wheel-drive application of the boosted 3.5-liter V6. However, this is just the beginning as Ford is already hard at work on the next generation of EcoBoost engines. At the SAE World Congress on Wednesday, Dan Kapp, director of powertrain research and advanced engineering, and Bob Fascetti, director of large gas and diesel engine engineering, will be announcing that the next generation EcoBoost engines are adding cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems.

Just like the direct injection and turbocharging used on the current EcoBoost mills, cooled EGR is derived from diesel engines. Exhaust gas is routed back into the combustion chamber to reduce the combustion temperatures. Controlling the combustion temperature has a number of benefits, primarily allowing the use of a leaner air/fuel mixture, which would normally burn hotter and thus produce more nitrogen oxide emissions. Running the exhaust gas through a heat exchanger before sending it into the intake stream improves the cooling effect further.

Using cooled EGR will also allow the use of even higher compression ratios without getting into knock situations. Engineers will be able to downsize engines even further without sacrificing power and torque. Overall, Ford estimates cooled EGR will improve EcoBoost efficiency by an additional five percent, further closing the gap between gasoline and diesel. More power, less fuel – it’s a win/win scenario.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading SAE 2010: Next-gen Ford EcoBoost engines to get even more efficient with cooled EGR

SAE 2010: Next-gen Ford EcoBoost engines to get even more efficient with cooled EGR originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The HDR-CX550V Handycam camcorder announced back at CES 2010 is outfitted with a professional-quality wide angle Sony G Lens and an “Exmor R” CMOS image sensor for superior low-light performance. Sony has realized many enthusiasts are using these camcorders in the field, and are set to offer a cool bundle called the HXR-MC50J this July that give it greater flexibility for aspiring filmmakers. Items in this add-on kit include a lens hood, external microphone, and a NP-FV70 high capacity battery.

Other key specifications of the hardware itself include 1080i HD video recording, 12-megapixel images, 64GB embedded Flash memory, 10X optical zoom, Optical SteadyShot, and built-in GPS receiver. There’s also an incredible 3.5 inch LCD screen that is capable of 921k colors. Not too shabby.

Picture courtesy of AV Watch.

At NAB 2010, Sony showed off two professional grade high performance 3D monitors in 24″ (LMD-2451TD, pictured above) and 42″ (LMD-4251TD) sizes. In recent years, digital technologies for stereoscopic 3D cinema production and live shooting have progressed rapidly, and the market for 3D entertainment is undoubtedly growing. However, people grow tired very quickly of lackluster 3D and desire sophisticated presentations.

The true magic within these monitors are the unique ChromaTRU color matching technologies; they also support full HD (1920×1080) resolution, and is basically a killer LCD with IPS panel and a wide viewing angle. With an optional dual stream HD-SDI interface, these monitors support signals including 1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 1080/24PsF, and 1080/23.98PsF formats. They can also be used as 2D monitors, and should be available in September.

These professional monitors incorporate a micro-polarizer 3D filter attached to the LCD panel, and are supplied with circular polarizer 3D glasses. Wearing these lightweight 3D glasses, users can enjoy smooth, uninterrupted viewing of multiple monitors.

Pictures courtesy of AV Watch, further specs within Sony brochure (pdf).

If you haven’t seen Red Letter Media’s excellent reviews of the Star Wars films, The Phantom Menace and The Attack of the Clones, then you might want to carve out three hours out of your day and watch them (the reviews are 70-minutes and 90-minutes long, respectively) — they’re incredible. (Warning: he does use some NSFW language occasionally.)

So, it’s very sad to hear that Mike Stoklasa, the writer & director of the Red Letter Media reviews, is considering not producing any more reviews, out of fear of being slapped with a copyright lawsuit. Stoklasa says:

“The thing is, I’m no lawyer. But I had someone actually talk to a copyright lawyer, and they didn’t know what to make of the reviews. It’s a new thing, You can get away with using a clip from a movie for the purpose of review or commentary, but can you dissect an entire film like that? There’s commentary and it’s part satire [because of the character, Mr. Plinkett] and part review and part educational as well because there’s elements of filmmaking insights.”

Stoklasa’s reviews are innovative and entertaining and take movie reviewing to a whole new level by remixing movie clips into the review itself. In doing so, they are emerging as a whole new art form. While more traditional movie reviews and satire can use clips of movies as a result of fair use, Stoklasa could be treading on new ground with his works. That said, this could be an interesting case if he were to get sued, because he would likely win, which would then redraw the boundaries for fair use, which would be a great thing. So, Mike Stoklasa, please don’t let the threat of copyright lawsuits stop you from continuing to produce your excellent reviews — to do so would be a travesty.

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The Infinity Ward team is getting smaller and smaller by the day as two more key developers has reportedly left the Call of Duty studio.
 

TF410, the new fibre laser marking solution from Technifor, is the entry-level version for medium and large run applications: automotive, medical, electrical or mechanical components, etc. Particularly economical, TF410 has a 10 W laser and retains the compactness and guarantees the proven performance in terms of marking quality and writing speed that have made the earlier 20 W model, the TF420, so successful.

Fitted with a 10 W laser (instead of 20 W for the TF420), the TF410 can execute most “shallow depth” marking applications for medium and large runs.

The first outstanding advantage of the TF410 is its ease of integration. Its 1.06 mm laser light source housed in the separate control unit, its new-generation electronics and its small number of optical components result in a marking head that occupies a volume of only 10 dm3, half that of the previous models (diode-pumped laser). The light beam is conducted to the marking head by an optical fibre. The separate control unit can be mounted in a 19″ rack and incorporates a built-in buffer memory.

TF410 naturally offers all the advantages of fibre lasers, in particular longer lifetime and improved reliability.

The TF410 marking solution includes Technifor’s intuitive and ergonomic T700W marking program. Its interface can be used to program the simplest markings in less than five clicks. It manages traceability data (serial number, variables, Data Matrix codes, bar codes, etc.) and can easily establish links with production databases (ODBC, Excel, ASCII, etc.). Logo marking is also possible (PLT, JPEG, BMP, DXF). Materials libraries with pre-programmed settings are provided, along with the generation of log files.

The TF410 system can apply high-contrast markings to a wide range of materials, including plastics, metals and ceramics, and to difficult surfaces such as steels and titanium. It offers a large number of marking variants thanks to its spatial and temporal optical quality.

Technifor offers an optional integration and customization aid, and other integration module options including an automatic plate feed and a turntable. Marking of samples or first production items is also possible.

ElektroPhysik, manufacturers of measuring solutions for the finishing industry today announced the launch of the new MiniTest 70 series, pocket-sized coating thickness gauges at the Control exhibition to be held May 4 to 7, 2010 in Stuttgart.

Designed as an affordable and reliable gauge for non-destructive coating thickness measurement, this series is available in two models:

MiniTest 70 F with built-in sensor for measuring non-magnetic coatings applied on steel

MiniTest 70 FN with a built-in dual sensor for measuring non-magnetic coatings applied on steel and insulating coatings on non-ferrous metals.

For coatings on steel, the measuring range is from 0…3 mm (0…118 mils), for measurements on non-ferrous metals, the gauge ranges from 0… 2.5 mm ( 0….98 mils).

Both models feature a statistics function that displays the number of readings, minimum, maximum and mean values as well as the standard deviation.

The MiniTest 70 FN model incorporates a dual sensor for automatic identification of the substrate material. The gauge upon contact with the surface automatically switches to the suitable measuring principle based on your application without the need of any previous settings to be made.

Both models operate on a single AA battery. Due to the gauge’s light weight and easy 4- button operation, the MiniTest 70 Series is convenient for on-site use. Also, the V-groove design of the probe tip ensures proper positioning for accurate measurements on round components. There is even a BAT symbol that displays indication low battery.

ElektroPhysik, probably best known for developing SIDSP® digital signal processing technology for coating thickness gauges and redefining the finishing industry, now adds the MiniTest 70 Series as an affordable solution, to any user seeking a reliable and accurate tool for coating thickness measurement.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) January 4, 2010 — StingRay Manufacturing, a leading supplier and worldwide exporter of cabinet style parts washer machines, introduces the StingRay 6048 Parts Washer. This heavy-duty parts washer is excellent for diesel engine cleaning, rail bearing washing and electric motor washing.

Although details have not been finalized, related exhibit and demonstrations of these new Parts Washer models are tentatively planned to be held at Stingray Manufacturing’s St. Louis facilities in the March, 2010 timeframe.

The StingRay SR6040 datasheet is available for download at:
http://www.stingraypartswasher.com/Products/PDF_Spec_Sheets/6048_Parts_Washer_SPEC_Sheet.pdf
Please contact StingRay Manufacturing for pricing information.

ABOUT STINGRAY MANUFACTURING LLC:

1

StingRay SR6048 Premier Parts Washer Introduced

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StingRay Manufacturing has been providing cleaning solutions to transportation, mining, agriculture, oil, earth moving, and trucking industries. StingRay Manufacturing designs and manufactures a full line of cabinet style parts washer cleaning equipment, including diesel engine washers, electric motor parts washers, and rail bearing parts washer. Additionally, StingRay produces specially blended parts washer detergent and parts washer replacement parts and accessories. StingRay Manufacturing has global sales offices, manufacturing and R&D operations in St. Louis, MO. Please visit www.stingraypartswasher.com for more information
________________________________________
Company Information:
Name: StingRay Manufacturing.
Address: 111 Westport Plaza Drive

VACUUM BAGS DEVICE 3 CHAMBRE FOR SQUARE BOTTOM BAGS; PRODUCTS AS LIKE AS RICE, LEGUME, OLIVES, ETC.
DEPENDING OF THE BAGS SIZES THE SPEED WILL BE UP TO 35 BPM.
ADJUSTABLE SIZES OF THE BAGS ON THE REQUEST.
VACUUM PUMP INCLUDED
MC AUTOMAZIONI MANUFACTURE OTHERS TYPE OF VACUUM BAGS DEVICE, DO NOT HESITATE ASKING US FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE

The new TB/TW 08 extends JUMO’s existing portfolio of instruments that can be used in the functional safety range to EN 14 597. Using this freely configurable, 48 mm x 96 mm instrument can reduce to a minimum the potential risks to people, property or the environment inherent in systems or operational processes. The primary task of the temperature limiter and monitor is to safely monitor thermotechnical processes, and bring systems to a safe operating state in the event of a fault. Although the practical functionality of the instrument was a priority in its conception, its design has not been neglected. Linear in form and characterized by features such as an ultra-flat front panel and a brilliant display, the instrument can fit in with the design of more sophisticated systems, and round off the overall concept. The display is clearly set out and shows all the process values relevant to safety. Additional LEDs also indicate whether system function is OK, or whether a warning alarm or a main alarm has been triggered. The two measurement inputs, with 17 linearizations, are freely configurable for resistance thermometers and thermocouples, as well as for current, voltage or differential measurement. The approvals that come as standard, such as UL to DIN 60 730-2-9, and a standard-compliant device concept to DIN EN 14 597, allow the instruments to be used worldwide in systems that demand functional safety. The TB/TW 08 has two relay outputs (warning alarm and K1; in the event of an error, it switches to the safe state), a binary input and a standard setup interface. When the limiter function is active, it is possible to re-enable the system with an internal or external reset button. Also available as an instrument option is an analog output, which can forward the process-relevant values to a recorder or controller, or to a control system. Additional features, such as password-protected access, adjustable level inhibition and conscious confirmation (double confirmation), when relevant changes are made on the instrument, increase operational safety and ensure greater safety for your process. The instrument is available with a 110 – 240 V AC (–15 %/+10 %), 48 – 63 Hz or 20 – 30 V AC/DC, 48 – 63 Hz power supply.

Specification:

-Base: G53(AR111)
-Input voltage: 12-24VDC;
-Output Current: 350mA;
-Light Source: LEDs;
-Power: 9*1W;
-Color: WW/CW/Y/R/B/G;
-Beam Angle: 15°/30°/45°/50°;
-Operation temeperature: :-20°C to +50°C;
-Fixture material: Aluminium;
-Life Span: 50,000 hours;
-Packing: 1pc/white box; 48pcs/Carton;
White box size: 114*114*100mm;
Carton Size: 480*480*330mm;
Net Wet: 12.96Kg; Gross Wet: 14.38Kg

The series SL-FS Weigh Cells cover the weighing range up to 1,000 g. They have been specifically designed as compact sensor components, meaning they are especially suited for installation into multi-track applications and everywhere where small frame sizes are demanded.

By using GMP-tailored construction, all Weigh Cells are also suitable for use in pharmaceutical industrial plants.

All Weigh Cells in the SL-FS series operate based on the principle of Electro Magnetic Force Restoration (EMFR).
The system dependent active self-damping ensures the shortest possible measuring times while maintaining the highest resolution.

The Weigh Cell comes standard equipped to supply “output weighing values” via a CAN interface as ready-to-connect modular components. The integrated software filters can be configured in many ways, enabling optimal adaptation of the weighing system to the respective ambient conditions. The Weigh Cells extensive command set facilitates simplified control engineering integration. Complemented by a variety of options, the Weigh Cell can also fulfill very specific requirements.

It is possible to quickly and easily connect the Weigh Cell into the SIWAREX FTA weighing module with integration into SIMATIC S7/PCS7.

Power transmission experts Cross+Morse announce the release of its latest edition of the Transmissions Catalogue.
Since the creation of the company in 1984, Cross+Morse has issued catalogues that have become Encyclopaedias to the engineering industry, being widely considered as the essential reference for any design or project in the making. This new extended edition of the Transmissions catalogue will provide the reader with the complete information on its extensive product line: BS and ANSI precision roller chain, chain attachments, food processing chain, sprockets and platewheels, chain tensioners, Inverted Tooth conveying chains and Chocolate moulding chain with extended pins.
Living up to its reputation of the UK’s foremost Power Transmission Solution provider, Cross & Morse provide engineers and designers with all of the relevant data that they need to select the drive that best suits their application, with the help of numerous charts, graphics, formulae and conversion factors included in the catalogue. To complete this edition, tips on Lubrication, Installation and Maintenance of the different chain drives are provided.
This new catalogue is easily accessible on our site, www.crossmorse.com , or through a simple phone call to our sales desk on +44 (0) 121 360 0155.

In order to optimise processes inside an engine, it is extremely important to have a true picture of the actual running conditions. In addition to their work on the test stand, application engineers have to be able to carry out test runs with the help of a mobile and compatible combustion analysis system.

Kistler has therefore launched the new mobile combustion analysis system KiBox® To Go, which is specifically designed for use in vehicles. This enables all important combustion values to be accurately determined in real time. Many customers have already taken advantage of the offer to borrow and test the KiBox® for a few weeks.

However, how the KiBox® and the associated measuring systems could be used to the best advantage was demonstrated by Kistler experts during the winter test at the beginning of March at the Arctic Falls test ground, north of the polar circle. The extremely low temperatures during the tests placed high demands on people and equipment. It is difficult to correct wrongly laid cables at –30°C, and condensation is a constant problem for measuring equipment. The Kistler on-site service team enabled customers to quickly obtain and evaluate top-quality combustion data during the tests.

Background information about the test track
The Arctic Falls testing ground in Sweden is an excellently equipped, 200-hectare fenced-off site that can be hired to different car firms simultaneously. For the private operator of the testing ground, confidentiality and safety are the utmost priority. This promotes trust. In 5 separate workshops with associated offices, work and testing can be carried out 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The testers can contact their development centre back home through a high-speed Internet connection. Circuits of various sizes, skid pans, handling tracks and bad road surfaces meet the needs of all vehicle developers. In particular, the 27 cold chambers (which go down to –40°C) enable engineers to carry on testing regardless of the weather.

New Low Cost Servo Drive with Integrated Motion Control for Medical, Semiconductor, Machine Tool and Assembly Automation from Fastech. Fastech is a Korean Company that has developed a line of closed loop stepper motor and controls including motion control options. This is an excellent alternative to standard servos and is priced competitively. The Ezi-SERVO® Plus-R utilizes a high resolution encoder to update the motor position every 25 micro-seconds. Using high performance DSP technology (digital signal processor) and software, the drive ensures exact position, no overshooting and smooth motion. Ezi-SERVO® Plus R Motors are available in NEMA 8, 11, 17, 23, 24 and 34 configurations. The integrated Motion Control can be linked up to 16 axes and can be operated from a PC through RS-485 communication. FASTECH Motion Library (DLL) is provided for programming under Windows 2000/XP 256 positions can be saved in flash ROM memory Can be linked up to 16 axes and can be operated from a PC or PLC through RS-485 communication

TRM has launched a new motion controller for stepper motors. The SMC controller can be set to control 1 to 3 axis with Linear and circular interpolation. The controller has 2 analogue outputs -/+10V that can be set to control 2 servo motors if servo control is preferred. With I/O, colour screen and keypad onboard and preloaded software MAP the SMC controller is a complete solution making it affordable for motion control applications as well as for CNC applications.

By using the controllers own keypad and screen users can easily create and modify programs. G-code programs can be created in an external computer and loaded into the controller using the USB port which make this controller ideal for router machines, plasma cutting machines, oxy-cut and in general for any cutting machine.