Lasers and ultra-violet light are being used to affect light-sensitive liquid resin to create three dimensional structures a few micrometres across, to be used for brain implants and in fuel cells.
Experimental error is a fact of life and it can be caused by the erroneous turn of a screw or the heating of the smallest component of an experiment’s assembly. Ensuring an optical component is rigidly in place is paramount for experiment or process success.
The ban on carrying liquids of more than 100ml onto commercial flights from Europe remains in effect until suitable methods to screen liquids for explosives are available. The technology is still being trialled – but, according to the European Commission, restrictions could be lifted early next year.
Solar cells could be the answer to the world’s energy problems, collecting sunlight to power peoples’ modern lives. ‘Now the companies have some time to develop new things without having to focus that much on production,’ says Thomas Kiessling, 3D Micromac’s key account manager. Kiessling is referring to the overcapacity the photovoltaic manufacturing industry is suffering, largely caused by government support that distorted the market. Kiessling adds: ‘They are looking for new efficiencies and we think now is the time to launch new technology.’
Aerotech has been involved in motion control technology for more than 40 years, having been founded in 1970. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the business began by specialising in servo technology for the military and aerospace sectors.
Simon Smith, European director of sales and marketing at Aerotech, says: ‘At the time of the company’s inception, one just couldn’t buy servo motor technology – it was all stepper motors.’