Actuator is key to better automatics

Article Abstract:

Prodrive Engineering has developed a pneumatic actuator for automatic transmission in automoblies. It enables gear changes within one twentieth of a second in rally cars and half a second in road cars. The development increase fuel efficiency and is cheaper than traditional conversion to automatic transmission. The actuator was originally developed to improve the performance of a Subaru rally car. Gear change is achieved through steering-wheel buttons.

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Miniature girders take the load

Article Abstract:

Research undertaken by the Dept of Engineering at Cambridge University, England, has made it possible to produce three-dimensional girder trusses on a 10mm-type scale using conventional technology. The girders are incorporated into sandwich panels. Initial applications are likely to be in aerospace, followed by power device electronic heat sinks.

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Steam gives power on miniature scale

Article Abstract:

Issues are presented concerning the use of steam to provide power for micro-scale actuation devices. The recovery of the waste heat generated by steam systems is discussed.

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