Jigs and Fixtures: 6 Ways to Improve Production Efficiency with 3D Printing

Whether it’s jigs, fixtures or grips, tooling remains a vital, if seemingly mundane, part of the manufacturing process. Regardless of the complexity of your products, the productivity and efficiency of your production depend on the availability of high-quality tooling aids.
Maximising production efficiency and productivity is a key concern for manufacturers. Jigs and fixtures are manufacturing aids used to increase the reliability, accuracy and quality of the manufacturing process whilst minimising production cycle times and improving worker safety.

Spotlight

Laser Lines

Laser Lines was originally founded in 1975 and remains one of the leading suppliers of lasers and accessories, 3D printers, rapid prototyping machines, additive manufacturing machines and vacuum casting systems. We also have a sub-contract facility for 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing requirements.

OTHER ARTICLES
Engineering Tech

Digital twin created for groundbreaking bridge with Allplan Bridge

Article | July 13, 2022

The Ottendorf Viaduct on the Riesa-Chemnitz railway line stood for over 160 years until it could no longer be saved and had to be replaced in 2015. The new replacement structure built at that time was a first for Deutsche Bahn: For the first time in its history, it built a bridge with a frame-stiffened arch structure. Although 3D models were used to some extent in the planning of the structure, the BIM method was not applied, so that no digital twin of the bridge is available for future (maintenance) work.

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Engineering Tech

Including STEM engagement in U.S. COVID-19 recovery efforts

Article | August 4, 2021

In addition to their core research work, many Federal science agencies have a mission to engage the public with current scientific research; educate Americans in science, technology, engineering, and math; and seed tomorrow’s workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasizes the importance of providing tools for the public to evaluate scientific information, bolstering community science literacy, and engaging the public in conversation about scientific issues.

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Engineering Tech

The Future of Acoustical Engineering

Article | August 17, 2021

Since we first learned to record sounds on wax tubes that could be played back on phonographs, humanity has come a long way. While setting up one of these antique music players and hearing what audio enthusiasts listened to in the late 1800s is interesting, it pales in comparison to the advances we've made. What are some of the most exciting recent acoustic engineering advances, and what does the future of acoustic engineering look like? Recent Audio Engineering Advances Inflatable concert halls have appeared in the most unexpected places, providing sound engineers with the perfect canvas to create the ideal stage for musical acts. Once the structure has been inflated and is ready to go, sound engineers can manipulate the interior acoustics in the same way. Acoustic engineers can use 3D impulse response management to create a 3D visualization of a room's acoustics using a set of microphones. This makes it easier to identify problem areas that would otherwise be difficult to identify with the human ear. Adding augmented or virtual reality to the mix introduces the practice of acoustic holography, which allows engineers to create a picture of the sound patterns in real-time. This could be useful for engineers concerned about noise pollution as well as those attempting to create the ideal acoustics for a musical performance or play. What Does the Future Hold for Acoustical Engineering? It's exciting to see how far the acoustical engineering industry has come, and even more exciting to see what the future may hold. What do acoustical engineers hope to achieve? Acoustic Metamaterials Gesture Control 3D Audio Music Recordings Although many people are unfamiliar with the term "acoustic engineering," it is a type of engineering that most people are likely to encounter on a daily basis. The future of acoustical engineering is bright, and we'll most likely see a lot of changes that make it easier to immerse ourselves in the perfect audio experience over the next few decades.

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Engineering Tech

Infrastructure Policy Watch: cost of climate change to UK finances, public views on New Zealand infrastructure

Article | July 13, 2021

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) in its latest Fiscal Risks Report has forecast the cost to the UK public finances from climate change (physical risks) and the transition to net-zero (transition risks) across a range of different scenarios. Describing the challenge, the OBR states: There are many other policy challenges to overcome, so the path to net zero can be expected to involve many policy levers on top of carbon taxes and emissions trading schemes, including bans and other regulations, and public subsidies and investment. These will all have economic and fiscal implications of one sort or another – either directly (via taxes and spending) or indirectly (via wider economic outcomes). Taking early action to achieve net zero would add 21% of GDP to public sector net debt by 2050, a smaller amount than that added by the Covid-19 pandemic. This amount comes from increased spending on net-zero investment, the loss of tax revenues (such as fuel duty), revenues from tax on carbon and other costs such as increased debt interest payments.

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Spotlight

Laser Lines

Laser Lines was originally founded in 1975 and remains one of the leading suppliers of lasers and accessories, 3D printers, rapid prototyping machines, additive manufacturing machines and vacuum casting systems. We also have a sub-contract facility for 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing requirements.

Related News

Engineering Tech

Bowman Acquires South Carolina Firm Dennis Corporation

Business Wire | October 17, 2023

Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment, today announced the acquisition of Dennis Corporation (“Dennis”), a civil engineering, surveying and construction management firm headquartered in Columbia, SC. Supporting public and private sector clients, Dennis specializes in delivering general civil infrastructure planning and design; program and construction management and oversight; environmental and geotechnical services for traffic and transportation; intelligent transportation systems (ITS), aviation, water resources and public sector facilities. With a rich history of client-focused services, sustainable engineering practices and forward-thinking solutions, the firm has a proven reputation of success. Established in 2005 by current CEO Dan Dennis, the firm has grown to become one the largest locally owned engineering, surveying and construction management firms in South Carolina. All 40 technical and administrative professionals will become Bowman employees in connection with the acquisition. “Dennis Corporation embodies a culture of commitment to unparalleled client service, which aligns perfectly with our cultural values, making them a great fit for Bowman,” said Gary Bowman, chairman and CEO of Bowman. “Their focus on transportation, construction management and surveying complement recent acquisitions we’ve made, and their geographic footprint introduces us to an attractive growth market in a familiar region. We’re looking forward to getting Dan and his team onboard and integrated into our platform so we can start sharing work and growing our collective base of business through revenue synergies.” “Becoming a Bowman company begins an exciting new chapter in our proud story,” said Dan Dennis, CEO of Dennis Corporation. “Our employees are looking forward to the suite of professional development platforms available at Bowman. We’re anxious to contribute to Bowman’s work-sharing mindset and we’re excited about the opportunities we will have to expand our service offerings and increase our exposure to clients and markets.” Financed with a combination of cash, seller notes and equity, the acquisition falls within previously discussed target multiple and operating metric ranges and is expected to be immediately accretive. The Company anticipates the acquisition will initially operate at an annualized net service billing run rate of approximately $4.5 million. More detailed information on M&A activities, pipeline and guidance updates are provided in connection with scheduled quarterly and annual communications. About Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Bowman is a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment. With over 2,000 employees and more than 80 offices throughout the United States, Bowman provides a variety of planning, engineering, geospatial, construction management, commissioning, environmental consulting, land procurement and other technical services to customers operating in a diverse set of regulated end markets. Bowman trades on the Nasdaq under the symbol BWMN. About Dennis Corporation Since 2005, Dennis Corporation has operated as an engineering, survey and construction management firm committed to innovative designs, sustainable solutions and high-quality services for clients in South Carolina. The firm employs highly trained and experienced personnel who utilize the latest equipment and software for design and construction management. The construction services division has all the necessary DOT, environmental, OSF and OSE certifications and equipment required to perform field inspections and testing. Managing projects throughout the state of South Carolina, the Dennis team understands the importance of completing projects within budget and ahead of schedule. For more information on Dennis Corporation, their projects and their services, visit www.denniscorporation.com.

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Engineering Tech

EXP announces new Northern Ontario Engineering Sector

GlobeNewswire | October 12, 2023

EXP, a global engineering, architecture, design and consulting firm, has announced the establishment of a new Northern Ontario Engineering sector. The new sector will be led by EXP’s Vice President, Northern Ontario Kevin McKay. In his promoted role as sector leader, Kevin will be responsible for engineering services on critical infrastructure projects throughout Northern Ontario. Kevin will use EXP’s global footprint to nurture client relationships, promote growth, recruit talent and foster EXP’s inclusive culture. Kevin’s promotion comes amid robust infrastructure projects in Northern Ontario. “EXP is proud of its reputation for organic growth. As we continue to expand our presence across North America, we are committed to hiring and promoting team members who are client-focused, results-driven and embody EXP’s core values. Kevin’s familiarity with Northern Ontario and his exceptional leadership skills will allow EXP to support clients and communities to reach their desired outcomes,” said EXP’s President and COO Mark Dvorak. Kevin brings over 25 years of experience in strategy, planning and execution of engineering and construction projects. Throughout his career, he has been influential on transportation, building, building science, mining, water and energy projects, including the City of North Bay’s John Street Bridge Replacement, the Dufferin Aggregates’ Flamboro Quarry Expansion and the Municipality of Callander’s Wharf Rehabilitation. He has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Laurentian University and is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario. EXP’s growth has led to the creation of an international sector, mining sector and extension of its science and technology expertise throughout North America. To continue its rapid growth across Canada, EXP will also expand its transportation market with the upcoming promotion of Vice President, Transportation, Central Canada Magdy Saaman to Sector Leader in FY25. About EXP With a mission to understand, innovate, partner and deliver, EXP provides engineering, architecture, design and consulting services to the world’s built and natural environments. Our heritage dates back to 1906, when the earliest of EXP’s predecessor companies started its engineering infrastructure practice.

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Construction

NV5 Awarded $7 Million for Pedestrian Safety Improvements by the New York City Department of Design and Construction

GlobeNewswire | October 19, 2023

NV5 Global, Inc., a provider of technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions, announced today that it has been awarded a $7 million contract to design pedestrian safety improvements along Lexington Avenue in New York City by the New York City Department of Design and Construction (“NYCDDC”). NV5 will deliver engineering design, project management, and inspection services for the three-year project along Lexington Avenue from 41st to 49th Street and 49th Street from Lexington Avenue to 3rd Avenue. The improvements will enhance safety and provide equitable mobility for all users by providing traffic calming measures, ADA-compliant walking routes, upgrades to accessible pedestrian signals, drainage improvements, and subsurface utility infrastructure upgrades to support the recent Midtown rezoning. NV5 has provided professional design and resident engineering inspection services to the NYCDDC since the department’s inception in 1996. We are pleased to support sustainable infrastructure through pedestrian safety and accessibility for the residents and visitors of New York City, said Dickerson Wright, PE, Chairman and CEO of NV5. NV5 has a long history of delivering award-winning projects to the NYCDDC, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the Department. “We are proud and eager to support the New York City Department of Design and Construction in its efforts to improve safety and provide accessibility for all,” said Joseph Menzer, PE, DBIA, V.P., Director of New York Operations. About NV5 NV5 Global, Inc. is a provider of technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions for public and private sector clients supporting utility, infrastructure, and building assets and systems. The Company primarily focuses on six business verticals: Utility services, infrastructure engineering, construction quality assurance, buildings & technology, environmental health sciences, and geospatial services. NV5 operates out of more than 100 offices nationwide and abroad.

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Engineering Tech

Bowman Acquires South Carolina Firm Dennis Corporation

Business Wire | October 17, 2023

Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment, today announced the acquisition of Dennis Corporation (“Dennis”), a civil engineering, surveying and construction management firm headquartered in Columbia, SC. Supporting public and private sector clients, Dennis specializes in delivering general civil infrastructure planning and design; program and construction management and oversight; environmental and geotechnical services for traffic and transportation; intelligent transportation systems (ITS), aviation, water resources and public sector facilities. With a rich history of client-focused services, sustainable engineering practices and forward-thinking solutions, the firm has a proven reputation of success. Established in 2005 by current CEO Dan Dennis, the firm has grown to become one the largest locally owned engineering, surveying and construction management firms in South Carolina. All 40 technical and administrative professionals will become Bowman employees in connection with the acquisition. “Dennis Corporation embodies a culture of commitment to unparalleled client service, which aligns perfectly with our cultural values, making them a great fit for Bowman,” said Gary Bowman, chairman and CEO of Bowman. “Their focus on transportation, construction management and surveying complement recent acquisitions we’ve made, and their geographic footprint introduces us to an attractive growth market in a familiar region. We’re looking forward to getting Dan and his team onboard and integrated into our platform so we can start sharing work and growing our collective base of business through revenue synergies.” “Becoming a Bowman company begins an exciting new chapter in our proud story,” said Dan Dennis, CEO of Dennis Corporation. “Our employees are looking forward to the suite of professional development platforms available at Bowman. We’re anxious to contribute to Bowman’s work-sharing mindset and we’re excited about the opportunities we will have to expand our service offerings and increase our exposure to clients and markets.” Financed with a combination of cash, seller notes and equity, the acquisition falls within previously discussed target multiple and operating metric ranges and is expected to be immediately accretive. The Company anticipates the acquisition will initially operate at an annualized net service billing run rate of approximately $4.5 million. More detailed information on M&A activities, pipeline and guidance updates are provided in connection with scheduled quarterly and annual communications. About Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Bowman is a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment. With over 2,000 employees and more than 80 offices throughout the United States, Bowman provides a variety of planning, engineering, geospatial, construction management, commissioning, environmental consulting, land procurement and other technical services to customers operating in a diverse set of regulated end markets. Bowman trades on the Nasdaq under the symbol BWMN. About Dennis Corporation Since 2005, Dennis Corporation has operated as an engineering, survey and construction management firm committed to innovative designs, sustainable solutions and high-quality services for clients in South Carolina. The firm employs highly trained and experienced personnel who utilize the latest equipment and software for design and construction management. The construction services division has all the necessary DOT, environmental, OSF and OSE certifications and equipment required to perform field inspections and testing. Managing projects throughout the state of South Carolina, the Dennis team understands the importance of completing projects within budget and ahead of schedule. For more information on Dennis Corporation, their projects and their services, visit www.denniscorporation.com.

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Engineering Tech

EXP announces new Northern Ontario Engineering Sector

GlobeNewswire | October 12, 2023

EXP, a global engineering, architecture, design and consulting firm, has announced the establishment of a new Northern Ontario Engineering sector. The new sector will be led by EXP’s Vice President, Northern Ontario Kevin McKay. In his promoted role as sector leader, Kevin will be responsible for engineering services on critical infrastructure projects throughout Northern Ontario. Kevin will use EXP’s global footprint to nurture client relationships, promote growth, recruit talent and foster EXP’s inclusive culture. Kevin’s promotion comes amid robust infrastructure projects in Northern Ontario. “EXP is proud of its reputation for organic growth. As we continue to expand our presence across North America, we are committed to hiring and promoting team members who are client-focused, results-driven and embody EXP’s core values. Kevin’s familiarity with Northern Ontario and his exceptional leadership skills will allow EXP to support clients and communities to reach their desired outcomes,” said EXP’s President and COO Mark Dvorak. Kevin brings over 25 years of experience in strategy, planning and execution of engineering and construction projects. Throughout his career, he has been influential on transportation, building, building science, mining, water and energy projects, including the City of North Bay’s John Street Bridge Replacement, the Dufferin Aggregates’ Flamboro Quarry Expansion and the Municipality of Callander’s Wharf Rehabilitation. He has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Laurentian University and is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario. EXP’s growth has led to the creation of an international sector, mining sector and extension of its science and technology expertise throughout North America. To continue its rapid growth across Canada, EXP will also expand its transportation market with the upcoming promotion of Vice President, Transportation, Central Canada Magdy Saaman to Sector Leader in FY25. About EXP With a mission to understand, innovate, partner and deliver, EXP provides engineering, architecture, design and consulting services to the world’s built and natural environments. Our heritage dates back to 1906, when the earliest of EXP’s predecessor companies started its engineering infrastructure practice.

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Construction

NV5 Awarded $7 Million for Pedestrian Safety Improvements by the New York City Department of Design and Construction

GlobeNewswire | October 19, 2023

NV5 Global, Inc., a provider of technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions, announced today that it has been awarded a $7 million contract to design pedestrian safety improvements along Lexington Avenue in New York City by the New York City Department of Design and Construction (“NYCDDC”). NV5 will deliver engineering design, project management, and inspection services for the three-year project along Lexington Avenue from 41st to 49th Street and 49th Street from Lexington Avenue to 3rd Avenue. The improvements will enhance safety and provide equitable mobility for all users by providing traffic calming measures, ADA-compliant walking routes, upgrades to accessible pedestrian signals, drainage improvements, and subsurface utility infrastructure upgrades to support the recent Midtown rezoning. NV5 has provided professional design and resident engineering inspection services to the NYCDDC since the department’s inception in 1996. We are pleased to support sustainable infrastructure through pedestrian safety and accessibility for the residents and visitors of New York City, said Dickerson Wright, PE, Chairman and CEO of NV5. NV5 has a long history of delivering award-winning projects to the NYCDDC, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the Department. “We are proud and eager to support the New York City Department of Design and Construction in its efforts to improve safety and provide accessibility for all,” said Joseph Menzer, PE, DBIA, V.P., Director of New York Operations. About NV5 NV5 Global, Inc. is a provider of technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions for public and private sector clients supporting utility, infrastructure, and building assets and systems. The Company primarily focuses on six business verticals: Utility services, infrastructure engineering, construction quality assurance, buildings & technology, environmental health sciences, and geospatial services. NV5 operates out of more than 100 offices nationwide and abroad.

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