What will 5G bring to industrial robotics?

If you ever have the chance to enter a factory shop floor and see a robot in action, this is a must-do. The combination of strength, speed, and extreme precision is nothing else than impressive. In the last years, they became general-purpose tools for automating production processes.

Spotlight

GRI

GRI was established in 1984 and has offices in Oregon and Washington. Today, the firm is headed by principals Mike Reed, Wes Spang, and Scott Schlechter. Co-founders Stan Kelsay and Dave Driscoll and former GRI president Dwight Hardin continue to serve the firm as principal consultants.

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How Engineering Answers to Why Cybersecurity is Critical to Realizing the Full Potential of 5G Networks?

Article | September 27, 2021

5G is the next quantum leap in mobile and wireless communication, providing unprecedented speed, capacity, and capabilities. In the 5G world, networks will serve trillions of connected things, and each person will be supported by hundreds of connected devices. In addition to these opportunities, the combination of new capabilities and virtualisation in 5G introduces new threats. 5G has significantly more network end-points that cyber criminals can exploit, and 5G virtualisation means that the entire connection is based on software, which is inherently hackable. Transforming society by reconceptualising the “network” Understanding where the vulnerabilities exist is a critical first step toward protecting 5G networks from cyber threats. This entails implementing a process that involves identifying, profiling, and assessing the health of each component before allowing it to connect to the network, and, if necessary, restricting access to the 5G service based on this assessment. It's known as a zero-trust approach, and it will assist organizations throughout the 5G ecosystem in striking the right balance between business risk and 5G security. 5G Expands Cyber Risks The network is transitioning away from centralized, hardware-based switching and toward distributed, software-defined digital routing. However, in the 5G software defined network, that activity is pushed outward to a web of digital routers spread throughout the network, removing the possibility of chokepoint inspection and control. 5G adds to its cyber vulnerability by virtualizing higher-level network functions previously performed by physical appliances in software. These activities are based on the Internet Protocol common language and well-known operating systems. Even if it were possible to secure the network's software vulnerabilities, the network is also managed by software—often early generation artificial intelligence—that is vulnerable. The dramatic increase in bandwidth that enables 5G opens up new attack vectors. Low-cost, short-range small-cell antennas deployed throughout urban areas become new physical hard targets. Finally, there is the vulnerability created by connecting tens of billions of hackable smart devices (actually, small computers) to the Internet of Things network. Plans are in the works for a diverse and seemingly endless list of IoT-enabled activities, ranging from public safety to battlefield to medical to transportation—all of which are both wonderful and uniquely vulnerable. In this paper, we argue that a zero-trust approach, combined with company leaders focusing on three key pillars—trust, resilience, and enablement—will form the foundation of a sound cyber strategy, allowing companies to roll out 5G quickly and safely.

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Engineering Tech

Industrial Robots Popular for Engineering

Article | July 13, 2022

The report "Global Industrial Robot Market: Analysis by Industry, by Type, by Region, Size and Trends with Impact of COVID-19 and Forecast Up to 2026" valued the global industrial robot market at $33.90 billion in 2021 and projected it to $61.09 billion by 2026. Because of increased productivity and efficiency, lower manufacturing costs, and lower overall product purchase prices. Industry 4.0 has accelerated the development of collaborative robots and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled robots, allowing industries to streamline processes, increase productivity, and reduce errors. Sectors are investing in robotic systems as the next generation of industrial robots becomes cheaper, autonomous, more mobile, cooperative, and adaptable. During the forecast period of 2022 to 2026, the industrial robot market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.50%. The Dynamics of the global industrial robot market Growth Drivers: Automation boosts productivity, raises quality, and decreases errors. Rising automation demand has increased the adoption of robots in various industries, and rising automation demand is a major market driver. The growing electronics industry, rapid installation of industrial robots, high wages, and the growing role of AI in robotics are all expected to drive growth in the industrial robot market. Challenges: The purchase and installation of robots requires significant capital investment, and the benefits provided may take many years to outweigh the initial cost. The high initial investment required for industrial robot-assisted production automation may act as a barrier to the market's growth. Other market challenges include safety concerns and privacy concerns. Trends: The development of collaborative robots, or co-bots, is a growing trend in robotics. Cobots are designed to collaborate with humans and are increasingly being used in industrial applications. Cobots use safety-rated sensors, which allow laborers to work in the same area without being harmed. Other trends that are expected to drive the growth of the engineering industry with the help of robot market during the forecasted period include the use of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), the rise of the cloud robotics market, next-generation tech accessories, and job opportunities in industrial robotic advancements.

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Engineering Tech

The latest on ICE's second UK infrastructure assessment consultation

Article | August 24, 2021

ICE Policy and Public Affairs recently launched a discussion paper and consultation on what should be in the second National Infrastructure Assessment (NIA). The work progresses the institution’s aims to influence infrastructure policy at a systems level. This autumn, the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) will publish its baseline assessment of the current state of key infrastructure sectors, along with proposals for the strategic themes and main priorities of the second NIA expected in 2023. Having been closely involved in both the establishment of the NIC in 2013 and the first NIA in 2018, our consultation asks what the core considerations of NIA2 should be – including net-zero, levelling-up and climate resilience – and explores which demand drivers have changed since the first NIA. Through this paper, we’re seeking to shape the wider infrastructure policy debate, consistently and over a number of years, by examining what our long-term infrastructure should look like – and most importantly, ensure it delivers the sustainable future outcomes we need it to. Look out for more updates later this year on ICE’s work in this area.

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Engineering Tech

Where we are now: reflecting on 5 years of State of the Nation

Article | June 16, 2021

The UK has undergone five years of unprecedented change while facing up to long-term challenges, such as reducing regional inequalities and mitigating the impact of climate change. Over that period, ICE’s annual State of the Nation reports have set out a range of policy interventions aimed at ensuring the UK has the high-performing infrastructure needed to meet those challenges. Each report has focused on major cross-cutting infrastructure issues, including devolution and reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

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Spotlight

GRI

GRI was established in 1984 and has offices in Oregon and Washington. Today, the firm is headed by principals Mike Reed, Wes Spang, and Scott Schlechter. Co-founders Stan Kelsay and Dave Driscoll and former GRI president Dwight Hardin continue to serve the firm as principal consultants.

Related News

Design, Mechanical and Motion Systems, Engineering Tech

SPX FLOW Launches Universal 2 ND Pump Series Designed Uniquely for Industrial Market

PR Newswire | January 29, 2024

SPX FLOW, has released the Universal® 2 ND Positive Displacement Pump (U2 ND) Series designed with industrial users in mind. The pumps offer the quality and durability the Waukesha Cherry-Burrell brand is known for while optimizing cost and suitability for the industrial market. The U2 ND series significantly expands the WCB pump range, aimed at enhancing reliability and performance across industrial applications while outperforming other pump styles, such as industrial lobe, gear or progressive cavity pumps.The design features improvements uniquely suited for industrial applications, including: Total cost of ownership: The pumps ensure a long running life, given their robust construction materials and designs tailored for each application. Because of its high volumetric efficiency, the pumps can be used to dose fluids, eliminating the need for an additional metering pump.  Efficiency: The U2 ND pump reduces slip, which occurs when fluids move backward from the liquid flow due to internal clearances. Lower slip means more efficiency, reducing the need for higher horsepower motors. Also, the series can process fluids over longer spans due to its high-pressure capability, which reduces the need for multiple pumps in these applications. Reliability: WCB is a proven and trusted global brand dating back to the 1880s. The pumps are made with durable, corrosive-resistant materials compatible with industrial environments. A robust design, equipped with industrial flanges or sanitary fittings, ensures manufacturers can choose the configuration to meet their needs.  Additionally, an extensive sales channel and domestic manufacturing footprint support this pump series, enabling quick deliveries on standardized parts across the entire Universal pump product line. The U2 ND series is complemented by the Universal Industrial 5000 series, which is tailored for users who require OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) seals for their industrial pumping operations. Julien Bassett, Pumps Global Product Manager: "Waukesha Cherry-Burrell has extensive experience offering pumps to customers built with their needs in mind. We wanted to expand our offerings to provide quality and durability of the SPX FLOW brand while catering to the unique needs of industrial manufacturers and their applications."

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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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Design, Mechanical and Motion Systems, Engineering Tech

SPX FLOW Launches Universal 2 ND Pump Series Designed Uniquely for Industrial Market

PR Newswire | January 29, 2024

SPX FLOW, has released the Universal® 2 ND Positive Displacement Pump (U2 ND) Series designed with industrial users in mind. The pumps offer the quality and durability the Waukesha Cherry-Burrell brand is known for while optimizing cost and suitability for the industrial market. The U2 ND series significantly expands the WCB pump range, aimed at enhancing reliability and performance across industrial applications while outperforming other pump styles, such as industrial lobe, gear or progressive cavity pumps.The design features improvements uniquely suited for industrial applications, including: Total cost of ownership: The pumps ensure a long running life, given their robust construction materials and designs tailored for each application. Because of its high volumetric efficiency, the pumps can be used to dose fluids, eliminating the need for an additional metering pump.  Efficiency: The U2 ND pump reduces slip, which occurs when fluids move backward from the liquid flow due to internal clearances. Lower slip means more efficiency, reducing the need for higher horsepower motors. Also, the series can process fluids over longer spans due to its high-pressure capability, which reduces the need for multiple pumps in these applications. Reliability: WCB is a proven and trusted global brand dating back to the 1880s. The pumps are made with durable, corrosive-resistant materials compatible with industrial environments. A robust design, equipped with industrial flanges or sanitary fittings, ensures manufacturers can choose the configuration to meet their needs.  Additionally, an extensive sales channel and domestic manufacturing footprint support this pump series, enabling quick deliveries on standardized parts across the entire Universal pump product line. The U2 ND series is complemented by the Universal Industrial 5000 series, which is tailored for users who require OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) seals for their industrial pumping operations. Julien Bassett, Pumps Global Product Manager: "Waukesha Cherry-Burrell has extensive experience offering pumps to customers built with their needs in mind. We wanted to expand our offerings to provide quality and durability of the SPX FLOW brand while catering to the unique needs of industrial manufacturers and their applications."

Read More

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.

Read More

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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