“Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.”
– Unknown
1. Generative Design Is for Tools
Watch out, Knipex, because now they’re coming with pliers! The Alu-Zange is a robust and lightweight hand plier designed by Jakob Kukula, a former student at Bauhaus University, Weimar. It was designed using a generative algorithm known as SKO, or soft kill option, which uses algorithms to determine the least amount of material required to retain 100% product functionality. The hand plier has an ergonomic design that comes with a four-point linkage system that lets you grip objects easily.
2. A Skills Stimulus for Industrial Robotics
Alphabet's Intrinsic has announced their first product, Flowstate, an intuitive, web-based developer environment for building robotic applications from concept to deployment. Flowstate allows developers to get started without deep expertise, simulates and validates solutions without developers touching a single piece of hardware, and encodes domain knowledge in custom “skills” that can be used and reused. Applications are now being accepted for Flowstate’s first beta program, which begins in July 2023.
3. OpenAI Is Pro-Regulation
All right, I’m sure this triggered folks who sold subprime mortgages to people with bad credit and nothing down in a past life. It takes greed to know greed, and this looks like Sam Altman is trying to eliminate the competition before it’s born. Call me a lemming, but OpenAI does have the best AI platform currently available, and they didn’t rush it to market (unlike the competition). Because ethics. Listen, if I’m wrong and Skynet takes over, send me a check for $10,000 and write “I told you so” on the memo line.
4. Exoskeletons Are Actually Happening!
John Deere employees are now using Comau's MATE-XT exoskeletons to improve ergonomic risk, reduce muscle fatigue, and maintain balance while performing their jobs. The exoskeleton is EAWS-certified and helps workers sustain heavy packages with minimal effort. Comau also provided hands-on training for using the devices at John Deere’s parts distribution center in Campinas, Brazil, and conducted an electromyographic analysis to measure the ergonomic improvements and benefits of the exoskeleton.
5. DOD and Now MOD All Like the 3DP
SFM Technology, an aerospace and defense company, 3D printed a main rotor blade restraint cradle for the Royal Navy's AgustaWestland AW101 helicopter. They used the BigRep PRO 3D printer and Hi-Temp CF, a carbon fiber material with strong wear, tear, and pressure resistance. Tests revealed that 3D-printed parts performed better than the original, non-printed parts. Additive manufacturing is becoming more accepted in the aerospace and defense industry as it displays its speed and cost-effectiveness.
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